Tips for Creating Intriguing Vignettes

Flip through any interior design or home and garden magazine and you’ll see image after image of inspired spaces that are perfect in every detail. One key to achieving this polished aesthetic is the thoughtful use of vignettes–small, pleasing scenes created with a collection of objects.

Vignettes tell stories and convey the particular mood of a space. They add visual interest, personality, and depth. You can make a vignette on top of any kind of surface such as: dressers, nightstands, credenzas, tables, fireplace mantels, bookshelves, console tables, countertops or even a window ledge.

Niche Homes Studio Interior Designer Polina Hullinger has an uncanny knack for putting together scenes that complement and elevate the distinct character of each room. Here are her top seven tips for creating eye-catching vignettes in your home:

1. Determine the style and function of the space you’re styling. This will help with choosing the right art and objects in order to create a beautiful vignette. The decor should match the purpose of the room; food-related in the kitchen, relaxing in the family room, and so on.

2. Select a color palette. Many factors should be considered when choosing the color palette, such as the colors of the furniture and walls. Be conscious of what’s around and if the vignette you’re creating is a simple scene or more maximal and colorful.

3. Symmetry or asymmetry? Symmetry is more traditional and tends to be a little easier, while asymmetry is less traditional but creates more interest and curiosity.

4. Choose a focal point. This is generally the largest piece in your vignette–a piece or gallery of art, a lamp, or a mirror–and it serves to ground the overall composition.
5. Framing. The objects you choose to arrange in addition to the focal point need to be balanced, complementary and cohesive. This is where you get to play with different scales, textures, and form. Try to include a variety of textures, heights, and forms to add depth and interest to the surface. The general rule is to group objects together in twos, threes, or fives.

6. Lighting. Think of lighting as a way to highlight the vignette. This is particularly important in order to achieve a designer styled vignette. It is a lovely finishing touch! Some examples include: table lamps, art and picture lights, wall sconces and candle sconces.

7. Have fun! Sticking to a theme is nice but rules are meant to be broken. Just like art, home decor is meant to evoke feelings. Surprising and unexpected design elements create a unique and memorable atmosphere. Remember to take that decor risk and have fun with it! The wonderful thing about vignettes is that you can change them whenever you want with items you already own.