Almost every interior enthusiast has a style formula that they live & create by. Some may believe a space isn’t complete without a coffee table book stack. I believe that a space isn’t complete without a family heirloom. I don’t keep tchotchkes lying around (I have a deep dislike for them actually) but I will have beautiful sentimental pieces in each space. My bedroom currently houses this french provincial dresser which has been in my family longer than I have. No, I don’t love the shade of wood or the frilly structure of the piece, but there is so much beauty in it’s heritage.

My formula for dresser style is:

• Height: I always add something with height to scale the space. If you have a very large piece of furniture on a large wall it can feel awkward without adding height. This is why people often add mirrors to fireplaces and why I added this large 50″ mirror to this large piece.
• Texture: My heart only loves neutrals. I have a really hard time incorporating color into my spaces because I really just love white, black, brown, beige, tan, etc. Instead of adding color I usually will add a texture piece to give dimension. Without dimension, a vignette can feel dull or un-interesting. I added this paper mache bowl for natural textures (which are my favorite).
• Balance: I don’t want everything to by symmetrical, but I do want it to feel balanced. Symmetry can be beautiful on a console or a dresser, however my nightstands are very symmetrical so I wanted to mix it up on the dresser. Balance comes from filling in gaps in a vignette so it looks intentional. The set of 3 ginger jars add a cluster of pattern to the right side of the piece and they are balanced by the stack of books that are off centered to the left of the piece. Although they are different shapes- one round and one square- they balance one another in the space.

I often use this formula for anything resembling a dresser; Such as an entryway storage piece or a dining room storage piece. Although they are not in the bedroom, this formula of height, texture, and balance can still be applied. I will leave you with my biggest tip- especially if you’re a neutral lover at heart. Always, always add greenery to a vignette. Adding an element of green brings the space to life, and it doesn’t always have to be real.