Designers share their top tips for styling vases as timeless centerpieces.
Vases are more than just vessels for flowers—they are versatile design elements that can bring color, texture, and personality into any room. Whether used as a standalone statement piece or part of a layered vignette, vases have the power to enhance your home’s aesthetic. Here's how to incorporate them into your décor like a pro.
Choosing the Right Vase
Material Matters
The material of the vase sets the tone for its look and feel:
- Ceramic or Clay: Perfect for rustic or bohemian interiors.
- Glass: Offers timeless elegance and works well in modern or traditional spaces.
- Metal: Adds a sleek, contemporary edge.
- Wood: Brings warmth and an organic touch to your décor.
Shape and Size
- Tall Vases: Ideal for dramatic floral arrangements or as a standalone centerpiece.
- Wide-Mouth Vases: Great for lush bouquets or branches.
- Small Bud Vases: Perfect for minimalist accents or grouping in clusters.
- Abstract Shapes: Add an artistic flair to shelves or tables.
Color Palette
Choose vases that complement your room’s color scheme. Neutral tones blend seamlessly, while bold colors or patterns can serve as eye-catching focal points.
How to Style Vases in Your Home
1. As a Centerpiece
A large vase with fresh or faux flowers can anchor your dining table or coffee table. For a timeless look, opt for a monochromatic floral arrangement. If you prefer a more relaxed vibe, try a mix of wildflowers or greenery.
2. In Clusters
Grouping vases of different heights, shapes, and materials creates visual interest. Designer Alice Chen, 37, recommends starting with three vases in varying sizes. "Keep them within the same color family or material for cohesion, or mix contrasting finishes for a bolder statement."
3. On Open Shelves
Use vases to add depth and dimension to shelves. Pair them with books, framed photos, or small sculptures for a curated display. "Think of your shelf as a story," says interior stylist Olivia Rowe. "A vase can act as a punctuation mark to tie everything together."
4. On a Console or Sideboard
A single vase with sculptural branches can bring height and elegance to a console table. To balance the look, flank it with smaller decorative objects, like candles or trays.
5. In the Kitchen
Vases aren’t just for living spaces—use them to add charm to your kitchen. Fill a glass vase with fresh herbs, a ceramic one with wooden spoons, or a tall vessel with eucalyptus for a fresh, clean look.
Tips for Using Vases Without Flowers
Vases don’t need to be filled to make an impact. "A well-designed vase can stand alone as an art piece," says Chen. For added interest, try:
- Branches or Twigs: Perfect for a natural, minimalist aesthetic.
- Dried Flowers or Grasses: Long-lasting and trendy, especially in neutral tones.
- Nothing at All: Let the vase’s form and material shine.
Caring for Your Vases
To keep your vases looking their best:
- Rinse glass vases regularly to prevent water stains.
- Use a soft cloth to clean ceramic or clay vases.
- Avoid abrasive cleaners on delicate materials like porcelain or crystal.
Vases are an essential part of any design toolkit. Whether you’re showcasing fresh blooms, seasonal branches, or letting them stand alone as sculptural elements, they offer endless possibilities to personalize and elevate your home décor.