Symmetrical or Asymmetrical

This classic look perfectly displays beautiful collections. The time-tested symmetrical arrangement creates balance and avoids the potential sensory overload of disparate elements. A neatly ordered approach is ideal for those who have a "more is more" philosophy toward collecting and display.

 

Start with your focal-point object -- normally the largest for the most visual weight -- and work outward, creating mirror images on the left and right sides. Here, pieces from a set of antique china complement footed urns, and a contemporary cork box adds a lively accent. A pair of reproduction candle sconces reinforces both the period feel and the symmetry of the grouping. Don't fret if you don't have a whole set of matching dishes to hang. Instead, look for unity in size, weight, material, or color. Transferware is the classic example: Collectors often display a variety of motifs in the same color scheme.

 

An asymmetrical composition is sleek and sophisticated. The key to asymmetry is maintaining balance without placing everything in a straight line. So vertical elements are balanced with horizontal, and large prints are paired with small. Allow each object to work on its own while playing off of the other elements in the composition to create a dramatic effect. Take time to experiment with different arrangements on the floor, or tape up paper cutouts in the shapes of the objects you plan to hang.

 

Start with the largest element and work out. In our example, nature photography (courtesy of a secondhand book) is unified by proportional mats and matching frames. Leaning one print casually on the mantel, slightly overlapping the largest print, tightens and centers the grouping. The arrangement gains extra presence from the striking contrast between the bold art and the saturated wall color. Asymmetry is also ideal for small paintings or collections of plates and platters in varying sizes.