January 6.2016

Decorating with Trays

I love decorating with trays.  They provide instant unification to what otherwise might appear as clutter.  Put a few objects together on a tray and suddenly you have a ‘grouping’.  From a practical standpoint they’re invaluable for organizing and from a strictly aesthetic point of view they provide an added layer when accessorizing.  Vary up the size, shape, and material and you can use them in virtually every room in your house.

In the Entry

Keep frequently used items like keys, sunglasses, chargers, and notepads and pens where you can find them.  In this chic styling the pretty elements like the porcelain letter tray and pen cup, flowers, and candles were left on display while the more utilitarian things are concealed in stylish boxes out of sight.

In the Living Room

In the living room I style for the pure beauty of it.  Even though there are a number of varying objects in this display the white theme pulls them all together.

If you have an upholstered ottoman as your cocktail table a tray is practically a necessity.

In the Dining Room

This simple acrylic tray is perfect for setting up a mini bar on a sideboard or buffet.  Bold hits of pink and silver accessories add a touch of elegance.

In the Kitchen

This is definitely one of the rooms in the house that can benefit the most by incorporating trays to group frequently used tools, spices, oils, and in this case a beautiful green touch of basil together.

You’ll want to leave the dish soap out when stored in a glass bottle.  Simply stylized with a hit of green on a simple white tray functional items become decorative.

Don’t forget trays for the inside of your drawers for instant organization. IKEA has a wonderful selection that you can mix and match to suit your needs.

In the Laundry Room

It might not be glamorous but it can be organized with the help of trays and baskets.

In the Craft Room

These trays allow for customization so everything fits perfectly.

In the Home Office

Desk tops look clutter free when many small elements are put together on a tray.

I love these clear acrylic trays for use in the home office.  Even stacks of paper or work in progress files look more organized when contained in a sleek, clean tray.

In the Bedroom

This handsome nightstand is instantly elevated with the addition of a delicate silver tray to house bedside essentials.

Pulling these delicate items together on a tray to display on a chest or dresser gives them a grounded presence that would not be achieved on their own.

If you have the luxury of a dressing room or a display area in your walk in closet a personalized vignette of scents and treasures is visual candy just for you.

In the Bathroom

The marriage of function and form as everyday objects are made beautiful.

Decorating with trays…for organizing, for beautifying, or both I think.  I’d love to know how you incorporate trays into your decor…send pic’s!