Styling a tall chest of drawers involves creating a balanced display on its surface that complements the piece's vertical presence and enhances the overall look of your space. While the reference notes that styling a chest of drawers, particularly if it's low, can benefit from adding height with taller items such as vases, sculptures, or even a stylish stack of books topped with a quirky ornament to draw the eye upward, these same items are also excellent choices for decorating a tall chest, though the purpose shifts from adding height to complementing or balancing the existing height.
Utilizing Decorative Elements
The surface of a tall chest provides an opportunity to showcase personality and style. You can effectively use a variety of items:
- Vases: Tall or medium-sized vases, with or without flowers, can add organic shapes and vertical interest.
- Sculptures: Sculptures or figurines introduce unique forms and textures.
- Books: A small, stylish stack of books can add weight and a personal touch.
- Ornaments/Figurines: Smaller items like quirky ornaments can sit atop book stacks or be placed among other items for visual interest.
While the reference highlights using these items to elevate the look of a low chest by creating height, on a tall chest, they help to break up the surface, add layers, and draw attention to the top area without necessarily needing to be excessively tall themselves.
Key Principles for Styling Tall Furniture
Styling a tall chest goes beyond just placing items; consider these principles for a cohesive look:
- Proportion and Scale: Choose items that are appropriately sized for the surface. Avoid overly small pieces that get lost or items so large they overwhelm the space. A mix of heights and shapes works best.
- Grouping Items: Arrange items in small groups (often odd numbers like threes) rather than scattering individual pieces randomly. This creates visually appealing vignettes.
- Negative Space: Don't feel the need to fill every inch of the surface. Leaving some empty space is crucial for allowing the eye to rest and making the display look intentional and uncluttered.
- Consider the Wall Space: The area above the tall chest is significant. You might hang a piece of art, a mirror, or even sconces to anchor the furniture piece and complete the look. Ensure the wall decor is in scale with the chest.
- Add Layers and Texture: Incorporate different materials and textures through your chosen items – wood, metal, ceramic, glass, textiles (like a runner) – to add depth and visual interest.
By carefully selecting and arranging items, you can transform the surface of a tall chest of drawers into a stylish focal point that enhances your room's decor.
| Item Type | Purpose on Tall Chest | Example Use |
|---|---|---|
| Vases & Sculptures | Add shape, vertical interest, personality | Tall vase on one side, smaller sculpture nearby |
| Stacked Books | Add weight, texture, base for small items | Stack of 2-3 books topped with a decorative object |
| Ornaments/Figurines | Detail, quirky touch, visual interest | Placed within a grouping or on top of books |
| Picture Frames | Personal touch, varying heights | Lean against the wall or use standing frames |
| Plants (small/medium) | Add life, colour, organic form | Potted plant on the surface |
Remember, the goal is to create a balanced and aesthetically pleasing arrangement that reflects your personal style and makes the tall chest feel like a natural, integrated part of the room.
