Day 3 – Rules of Decorating Tabletops

My favorite decorating rule is that it’s ok to break the rules of decorating! My whole house is, therefore, filled with broken rules. But, just in case you operate better with rules, here are a few to keep in mind.

Odd Numbers Offer Pleasing Arrangements

So many are painting every wood surface they own, but I am hesitant. I love the feel and look of real wood. Some pieces are truly just better painted, but not all. This empty end table is a blank canvas for a number of odd pieces, beginning with light.

This lamp was a purchase in Rosemary Beach, Florida. 007’s man-cave has recently been transformed into a nautical square of coastal treasures.

Keep Furniture Height and Distance Cohesive

The end table is the same height as the arm of the chair and is placed about 3 inches apart from the chair. This keeps everything within arms length.

Texture creates dimension.

I love the simplicity of this tabletop.

The texture of the shell and driftwood create dimension on the table top. The glass votive is fragile and reminds us of the power of life and how it shapes us and makes us who we are. Just as the wind and water shapes the driftwood. I love them together.

Negative Space is Important, but Sometimes We Have to Fill It

We also have to live in our home, so with this table I’ve had to break the rules. A cordless telephone, wireless speaker for surround sound and a coaster are added just for functionality. I would rather have the negative space on the tabletop, but 007 needs all of the extras.

A few other rules to think about:

Be intentional.

Think about space, color, light, texture and a focal point. Use mementos to create nostalgia that only you and your family will understand, until you share the story.