As a former prop stylist one of the things that I still love is treasure hunting thrift stores, yard sales, estate sales and flea markets for items that just tickle my fancy. Over the years I've found, curated and displayed many collectibles and know first hand the importance of living with the things you love. Recently, I was hired by a couple for my Move In Solutions Service to pull together their gorgeous 10,000 square foot home while they were away in Mexico. Oh, just as an aside. Please check back often, we have a CONTAINER of Mexican home decor and Otomi textiles on it’s way and have some amazing things planned for this home! Where was I? Oh, I came across a treasure trove of swanky tiki mugs so, here are my three top lessons for displaying collectibles in your home!
LESSON #1: IT’S ALL ABOUT THE COLOR
If your collection comes in a variety of colors, the first thing you have to do is gather everything together in a staging area. Then organize them by color, you'll already see how much presence this gives your collections.
Bonus Tip: "This is the time to dust and declutter your collection. Collections are a living thing, they are always being curated and updated. Edit out the ones that you don't absolutely love." - Rachel
LESSON #2: PUT YOUR COLLECTIBLES TO USE
When you think of collectibles, what does that conjure up in your mind? A gazillion tiny porcelain thimbles on grandma's glass shelves or worse.....DOLLS? No more. Put your vintage gems to work in a space. I displayed these tiki mugs right next to the bar and poker table and all you need to do is add the rum!
Bonus Tip: "If you collect China or Polish Pottery, find everyday uses for them as fruit bowls or trinket trays for smaller items." - Rachel
LESSON #3: IT’S ALL ABOUT THE INSTALLATION
The installation is where it's at when it comes to collectibles. Since these items are so unique and colorful, the white space around them acts as a frame so that you can focus on each one. Some items will need to be clustered together to give a collection more impact. It always depends on the size and scaled of the collectibles.
Bonus Tip: "Put neutral items against a dark background and colorful items against a neutral background so that they stand out." — Rachel
If you need help displaying collections in your home, I'm happy to consult with you! Book your consultation using the Contact Page. I work with clients in San Diego and virtually throughout the nation.