When it comes to personalizing your living space, the chest of drawers is often an underappreciated element that can make a significant impact on your decor.
Not only does it provide practical storage solutions, but it also serves as a focal point in a room, allowing for creative expression and style. Whether you prefer a modern minimalist look or a more traditional, ornate design, there are countless ways to enhance your chest of drawers. In this guide, we will explore how to decorate chest of drawers that complements your overall interior design.
Different Decorating Approaches
When it comes to decorating your chest of drawers, there are several approaches you can take, each reflecting your personal style and the overall aesthetic of your space.
1. Minimalist Style
For a clean and modern look, consider a minimalist approach. Choose a few key decorative items, such as a sleek vase or a simple sculpture, and keep the color palette neutral. This style emphasises simplicity and functionality, allowing the chest of drawers to remain the focal point without overwhelming the space.
2. Eclectic Mix
If you enjoy a more vibrant and personal touch, opt for an eclectic mix. Combine vintage finds, contemporary pieces, and meaningful souvenirs in a curated display. Layer different heights and textures to create visual interest, ensuring that each item tells a story and reflects your personality.
3. Thematic Arrangement
Another effective approach is to create a thematic arrangement. Whether you choose a nature-inspired theme with botanical elements or a nautical vibe with coastal decor, sticking to a theme can create a cohesive look. Use matching colors or similar materials to unify the decorative items, enhancing the overall atmosphere of the room.
4. Functional Decor
Consider integrating functional decor into your design, such as decorative trays, stackable boxes, or stylish books. These items not only serve a purpose but also add character and style to the chest of drawers.
This approach is particularly useful in smaller spaces where every item counts.
By exploring these different decorating approaches, you can transform your chest of drawers into a stylish centerpiece that truly represents your taste and enhances your home.
10 Methods How to Decorate Chest of Drawers
1. Start with a Fresh Coat of Paint
One of the most impactful ways to decorate a chest of drawers is by giving it a fresh coat of paint. Choose a color that complements your room’s overall design and brings out the best in your furniture. You can opt for a classic neutral like white or gray for a clean, timeless look, or go bold with a deep navy, emerald green, or even a pastel hue for a pop of color.
If you’re feeling creative, consider adding patterns like stripes, chevrons, or even a gradient effect. This method allows you to completely customize the chest of drawers, making it a true reflection of your personal style.
2. Update the Hardware for a Quick Refresh
Replacing the drawer handles or knobs is a simple yet effective way to refresh the look of your chest of drawers. Hardware comes in a variety of styles, from sleek modern designs to vintage-inspired pieces, so you can easily find something that matches your aesthetic. Consider using brass or gold hardware for a touch of luxury, or opt for ceramic or glass knobs for a more eclectic feel.
You can even mix and match different styles or finishes to create a unique look. This method is an easy DIY project that can instantly elevate the appearance of your furniture without a major overhaul.
3. Incorporate a Decorative Tray
Adding a decorative tray on top of your chest of drawers is a practical and stylish way to organize small items while adding a layer of sophistication. Choose a tray that complements the color and style of your chest of drawers—wooden trays for a rustic look, metallic trays for a modern vibe, or mirrored trays for a touch of glamour.
Use the tray to display items like candles, small potted plants, or a collection of your favorite perfumes. This method not only helps to keep the surface tidy but also adds depth and interest to your décor.
4. Display Artwork or a Mirror Above the Chest
The space above your chest of drawers is prime real estate for adding visual interest to the room. Hang a piece of artwork that resonates with your style, whether it’s a large statement piece or a gallery wall of smaller prints. If you prefer something more functional, a mirror can be a great option, especially in smaller rooms where it can help to reflect light and make the space feel larger.
Choose a frame that complements the chest of drawers—ornate for a traditional look, or sleek and simple for a modern touch. This method draws the eye upward and creates a cohesive look that ties the entire room together.
5. Style with Greenery for a Natural Touch
Incorporating plants into your décor is an excellent way to bring life and freshness to your chest of drawers. Whether you choose a large potted plant to sit beside the chest or a smaller one to place on top, greenery can instantly brighten up the space.
Consider using trailing plants like ivy or pothos to add a soft, cascading effect, or opt for succulents in decorative pots for a low-maintenance option. This method not only adds color and texture but also brings a sense of calm and tranquility to the room.
6. Add a Runner or Scarf for Texture
To add texture and warmth to your chest of drawers, consider draping a runner, scarf, or piece of fabric over the top. Choose a material that complements your room’s color palette and adds a tactile element to the furniture.
A lace runner can create a vintage, romantic feel, while a woven scarf adds a cozy, bohemian touch. You can also use a patterned fabric to introduce a pop of color or a subtle print to tie together other elements in the room. This method is an easy way to switch up the look of your chest of drawers with the changing seasons or moods.
7. Group Decorative Objects in Odd Numbers
When styling the top of your chest of drawers, grouping decorative objects in odd numbers—such as three or five—creates a more visually pleasing arrangement. Choose a variety of objects that vary in height, texture, and color to create a balanced and interesting display.
For example, you could group together a tall vase with flowers, a medium-sized candle, and a small decorative bowl. This method helps to avoid a cluttered look and ensures that each piece complements the others, creating a harmonious and cohesive display.
8. Incorporate Personal Items for a Touch of Sentimentality
Adding personal items to your chest of drawers can make it feel more intimate and meaningful. Display framed photos of loved ones, souvenirs from memorable trips, or cherished heirlooms that tell a story. You can mix these personal items with other decorative pieces to create a display that’s uniquely yours. This method not only adds character to your space but also ensures that your chest of drawers feels like an integral part of your home, filled with items that bring you joy and comfort.
9. Light It Up with Candles or Lamps
Lighting is a key element in creating a warm and inviting atmosphere around your chest of drawers. Place a decorative lamp on one side of the chest to add both light and style to the space. Choose a lamp with a base that complements the chest’s finish, whether it’s ceramic, metal, or wood, and select a shade that matches your room’s color scheme. Additionally, candles can be used to create a cozy, ambient glow.
Opt for scented candles in beautiful holders, or arrange a group of pillar candles of varying heights for a more dramatic effect. This method not only enhances the functionality of the chest of drawers but also adds a soft, inviting light that enhances the overall mood of the room.
10. Create a Themed Vignette
Finally, consider creating a themed vignette on top of your chest of drawers to tie the décor together. Whether it’s seasonal, such as a fall arrangement with pumpkins and autumn leaves, or based on a color scheme like monochromatic whites and creams, a vignette helps to create a cohesive look.
Arrange items of varying heights and textures to add interest, and don’t be afraid to layer objects for depth. This method allows you to express your creativity and style, and it can be easily updated throughout the year to reflect different themes or moods.
Conclusion
Styling your chest of drawers is an opportunity to express your personal taste while enhancing the overall aesthetics of your space.
By incorporating a mix of decorative elements, personal touches, and thoughtful arrangements, you can create a visually appealing and functional display that transforms this often-overlooked furniture piece into a striking focal point. Thanks for reading our blog post on how to decorate chest of drawers! We hope you found it helpful and informative.