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Artefacts’ display is no child’s play
YOU’RE a proud owner of antiques, contemporary artefacts or traditional arts and crafts collected during the course of travels? But your prized collection usually goes unnoticed in all the clutter on your coffee table or mantlepiece? Therein lies the catch. You may have the rarest of rare artefacts in your possession or the prettiest of crystalware, but unless you arrange your collection of bric a brac in a manner that is eye-catching, it may all be lost on the visitors. By following some simple rules for displaying and arranging your collector’s items, you can add character and an aura to your rooms. Have unobtrusive backgrounds: Keep the backgrounds simple and non-competing. Collections stand out best against the simplest of all backgrounds—flat white walls, woodwork and glossy painted white floors. To make your bric a brac
stand out keep patterns and fabrics to a minimum. Instead of fussy
curtains or patterned draperies, simple and plain lines of sheers,
blinds and upholstery will lend prominence to your collection. Lighting
fixtures are supporting players. Recessed lighting and simple lamps are
alternatives to chandeliers. |
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Create a focal point: Choose one object with a strong, easy-to-read shape as your focal point. Focus the grouping by centering the collectibles you want to spotlight. Shelves effectively organise a number of objects. Leave plenty of breathing room so your treasures aren't crowded by supporting players. Arrange symmetrically: Group objects of similar visual weight and feel. Duplicate objects, such as a pair of crystal ducks, reinforce each other’s visual strength and should be arranged with strict symmetry. For creating a pleasing tabletop arrangement, group rather than scatter. Even with carefully edited objects, employ the principle of overlapping triangles. Limit the number of like objects for a clean look. Mix ’n’ match textures: Use a mix of textures, rather than a number of slick or polished objects, for a warm, friendly feel. While displaying folk art or contemporary artefacts, hang large pieces alone rather than as part of a busy grouping. Vary heights: On any one given surface have objects of varying height. But the contrast in height should not be so much that some objects get totally obscured. Fill in the collection: It can be great fun to incorporate collections and memorabilia into your decorating. As a quick start, choose one major element, such as a print, pair of prints, or mirror, and work out from there. This avoids the distraction of a collection of only small objects. Stick to one style: Vary shapes, sizes, and frames for interest but stick to one type of collection. For instance, hand-painted terracotta plates of different sizes but the same design can be grouped together to create an impact. It is not wise to mix too many styles and patterns. — Chetna Banerjee |
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