Lately I've been noticing the small corners of my home more: the top of a side table, a patch of light across a shelf, the way a few objects settle together. These little moments start to feel like a still life; they're quiet and composed without being perfect. Styling your space doesn't have to be a big project. Sometimes it's just a matter of paying attention and choosing things you enjoy looking at every day.
What Makes A “Still Life”
A “still life” isn't necessarily about curating something perfect; it's about noticing. It might be a few books stacked just right, a decorative bowl of fruit catching the sunlight, or a small grouping of objects that feels balanced without trying too hard. The goal isn't to decorate every surface, but to create quiet moments that bring a sense of beauty to your everyday spaces. Texture, shape, and even empty space all play a part.
Some pieces have a way of pulling a space together, even when they're small. These are the things I reach for again and again when styling a room—not to make it look perfect, but to make it feel cared for.
Books
Books add color, height, and a sense of life to any surface. Stack a few on a coffee table, use them to anchor a shelf, or flip one open to a beautiful spread. Choose titles that feel inspiring or simply look great out in the open.
Containers
Whether it's a pretty bowl, a structured box, or a tall pitcher, they work just as well holding everyday things as they do sitting empty.
Framed Art & Photos
Small pieces of art or personal photos can bring depth and meaning to a space. Tuck a tiny framed print onto a shelf, lean a photo against the wall on a console, or mix one into a larger vignette. These little moments of imagery help tell a story and make a room feel more lived in.
Sculptural Objects
These are the unexpected pieces that add personality: a carved wood figure, a twisted metal form, even a smooth stone picked up on a walk. They draw you in and are usually the things people ask about first.
Styling Side Tables & Coffee Tables
These are the spots that tend to collect clutter, but they're also some of the easiest to style. I like to start with a small stack of books or a low tray to ground the space, then add something sculptural: a candle, a ceramic piece, or a natural object like driftwood or stone. A small bowl or dish can keep it useful without sacrificing beauty.
Open Shelving
Open shelves are less about filling every inch and more about finding a rhythm. Varying heights, shapes, and textures help keep things interesting. Mix books, bowls, framed art, and objects that hold personal meaning. Leave some space between groupings so each one can breathe.
Entryways and Consoles
This is often the first place you see when you come home, so it's worth treating it as something special. A pretty lamp for light, a dish or tray for keys, and something with height such as a tall vase, a branch, or framed artwork can help make it feel styled but also lived in.
Kitchen Counters
A kitchen counter can be a lovely place for a quiet still life. Prop up a favorite cookbook, add a small vessel with herbs or wooden spoons, and tuck in something a little unexpected; like a candle, a tiny painting, or a beautiful salt cellar.
Styling your home doesn't have to mean starting from scratch. When you begin to notice what's already there and add a few thoughtful touches, things start to feel a little more beautiful and more like you. Small groupings of favorite objects are the details that turn everyday moments into something special.
If you'd like to bring more intention into your space, I'd love to help. Whether you're styling a single shelf or refreshing a whole room, we can create something calm, personal, and easy to live with. Reach out anytime!