Keeping tabletops clear may be the most efficient way to stave off clutter, but the look and feel of a bare space might not be for everyone. Thankfully, it’s possible to decorate our surfaces with beautiful things without ending up in clutter city. Style your tables, counters, and desks to look cozy and clutter-free by following these tips.
Place each item intentionally
Instead of splaying out decor in a haphazard fashion, be intentional about what belongs on your tabletops and what doesn’t. Trays do a particularly amazing job of containing tabletop residents. They clearly mark what should stay on the table when you’re done using it. (Tabletop squatters, be gone!)
Create visual contrast and balance
Grouping things of similar sizes makes it harder to appreciate each individual item. Try varying the height of your decor pieces to create a feeling of more with less. Put a small candle next to a towering vase, or place a landscape frame next to a portrait one. You’ll be surprised how just a few thoughtful items can make a space feel much fuller than before.
Avoid displaying a million tiny items
Let’s be real; all our bits and bobs can be a pain to clean—especially in the city, where dust settles on every exposed item. Consider using a display cabinet or shelf for your tiny treasures instead. Open surfaces like end tables tend to attract clutter at faster rates, so it’s best to keep decor minimal.
Pro-tip: We humans can only appreciate so many beautiful things until our brains start tuning out. So instead of displaying every picture imaginable on your mantle (they might be better enjoyed in an album), try flanking your favorite lamp with a couple of your best family photos instead!
Ultimately, we want to draw attention to things that we can appreciate the most—and spend the least amount of time maintaining them. With a bit of planning and patience, any home can be both stylish and stress-free. Who says a clutter-free home has to be boring?
