You’ve heard the adage that “beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” Never is this more true than with collectibles. My decorating partner on “Room by Room,” Matt Fox, and I have run across just about every kind of collection imaginable. We’ve seen collections of baskets, salt and pepper shakers and teapots. We’ve worked with homeowners who wanted to display their pig-figure collections, matchbook-cover collections or pottery collections. We’ve used old maps in dens, vintage hat boxes in bedrooms and brightly colored carnival glass in china cupboards.
While these collections may vary, Matt and I have discovered some commonalities when it comes to their acquisition and display.

Lesson 1: Collections are always a work in progress.
Collectors everywhere understand this concept. While you may need a minimum of three items for it to officially be declared a collection, for most collectors there is no upper limit.
For true collectors, it’s all about the thrill of the hunt. There is a real sense of excitement at finding a new and unusual addition, especially if it’s a bargain.
Which leads directly to Lesson 2: You don’t have to show off your entire collection at once. Too much of a good thing can rapidly develop into clutter.

Divide your collection into groupings and with an eye to which items work best together.
For added interest, vary the shapes and colors in the display. After a few months, rotate in a few different pieces, changing the display as often as you like. Your collections can be easily displayed by following a few simple design tips:

• Arrange items in odd-numbered groupings. For the greatest impact, display all the items in your collection in one area rather than scattering them throughout your home.

• Vary the heights in the grouping. Mix large and small pieces, using small pedestals or stands to elevate objects.

• Create depth by alternating pieces from back to front, instead of placing them in a line. Or you might try placing three objects in a triangular shape, with the tallest piece in back. Depending on the number of items, you can create multiple triangles, overlapping them as necessary.

• In shelving units, consider varying the distance between shelves.

• For a formal look, use symmetrical placement of accessories. For a more casual look, asymmetrical groupings work well.

It’s important that shelves appear balanced for a display to be attractive. You might place the largest items first, then alternate the heights from one shelf to another in a sort of zigzag pattern. On open shelves, I begin by placing the largest item in the center of the middle shelf.
Next, begin filling open spaces with smaller, colorful objects. Use different shapes and materials. Don’t be afraid to mix in some silk greenery with your collection to add color and texture.
You can also display smaller treasures on windowsills or larger items in an unused fireplace.
Your collections reflect your personality and style. Using them to accessorize your home doubles the fun of collecting. So go ahead: Display that frog collection with pride.

source : www.azstarnet.com