The Art of Display

Before you start, spend a little time considering what you want your display to say about your style. Are you a lover of the pared back and muted, do you prefer the bold and adventurous, or are you after a look that is characterful and quirky?Whether you’re a worldly wanderer endlessly collecting curios as you go, or an artisan aficionado trawling weekend markets with a distinct style in mind, there’s an art to showcasing your well-chosen pieces with effortless elegance.

At Nkuku we love bringing you unique handmade pieces with a story to tell, so read on for inspiration of how to create more characterful displays simply by mixing old with new, natural with hand-crafted, and precious objet d’art with personal pieces. By incorporating items collated from years of travels with fresh new pieces, you can start to bring a one-of-a-kind feel to your interiors.

While combing the world for inspiration, we’ve discovered that curating visual interest is a combination of sense and sensibility, so begin by finding the perfect spot for your display. It could be that you have an alcove to fill, a hallway table where you want to create a warm welcome, a mantle-piece that’s under-used, ora cabinet that is calling out for a refresh.

Start by clearing your area and looking at the space with fresh eyes. Could you create greater impact and a lasting impression simply by rearranging what is already there? Can you remove a few unwanted items that have made their way into the area over time?

Or is it time for a creative refresh? Spring is the perfect time for an over haul, and for that, why not gather up pieces you love from around your home and combine them with a few timeless additions to achieve perfect harmony?

Time for some fun. We suggest choosing one loved piece as your starting point. You could take tonal inspiration from its colour and play with complementing, highlighting and contrasting. Or you could take your lead from its form and play with scale. Don’t be afraid to experiment and get expressive – it’s how you decide to mix and match that will maximise your collection.

Bring together objects of varying heights, sizes, textures, and shapes. Stand rustic reclaimed bowls alongside elegant, brushed metal candlesticks. Introduce organic curves with hand-blown glass pieces and hammered metal vases. Don’t shy away from experimenting with contrasting tones or varying finishes. From the soft and raw quality of terracotta clay to burnished metals or the weathered beauty of reclaimed wood –bringing together objects that possess a handmade individuality is what will create a stand out display.

Last but not least, finish your display with a few natural seasonal flourishes displayed in a distinctive vase or bowl? Forage for fallen foliage on walks, pick stems in the garden or select a few choice plants to add interest. Simple greenery, such as eucalyptus or succulents, bring instant freshness, while the neutral shades and elegant silhouettes of poppy heads, fennel, or ornamental grasses create a sense of calm.