A while ago I saw a merch display that featured all white vases and nick-nacks. Something about the serenity and pureness appealed to me and I immediately thought it could work well on the black hot rolled steel shelves in our dining room.
There is something about odd numbers, that does the magic in the cluster universe. The power of a cluster lies specifically in the group of objects working collectively and not individually. It’s almost like each of their individual aesthetic strength merges into one and sends a message to the observing eye: ” Yes, we look all so different, but yet we belong together!”
What I love most about clustering pieces is that (at least in my world) there are no rules. I go about it almost intuitively. While going through trial and error, I do realize the more opposite the materials are, the better they look as a unit! Further, the more unique they are, the more they complement each other. I personally enjoy mixing eclectic and sometimes ethnic pieces into a modern context, which is the style I mostly feel comfortable in.
Another key aspect of creating a decor vignette is to also mix items with different heights AND opposing shapes. It visually creates a 3-dimensional dynamic, which accentuates their visual composition. Putting 2 accessories with different shapes, but similar heights together don’t mix well as they are actually competing with each other since they share one characteristic: Which is the same height!
Here are different ways and essentials for arranging/composing a cluster. If you want to see some live action, check out this video where I style my shelves using these techniques.
The triangular cluster is defined by using at least 3 accessories with distinct heights and textures, offsetting each other creating a so-called “triangle”.
Tip: It takes some shifting and testing of the different looks. Take a step back and see which look you prefer.
