Storage
Creative Collection Displays
By: Kelly Goldthorpe
When you start collecting something you never anticipate how massive it might become. Once you’ve stored up all these different object you want to display them, but often times collections look like one giant pile of junk. To make your collection shine without appearing cluttered or lumped together there are a variety of techniques you can use.
Unless you want to lump all of your collection in one room, like Elvis’ Gold Record Room, spread your belongings throughout your house. This helps develop it as a theme, not just a collection. It also prevents the build up of objects in one area. By sporadically placing objects here and there it allows viewers to appreciate each object individually. When people are confronted with one large clump of things they likely won’t admire the details. Incorporate the collection into each room, but also the hallway on the walls or end tables. Even add some touches outside on your patio furniture. A room often forgotten is the bathroom. If your collection is something that is humidity-resistant, place it on a bathroom shelf. Depending on what your collection consists of you can find a surprising number of ways to highlight it. Just make sure that your home furnishings don’t overtake it.
When you are hanging or displaying your collection do so with design in mind. Go with odd numbers and establish an eye-line. Keep it clean and crisp. Also ensure that your items are cleaned and dusted. Properly cared for objects hold up much longer and make for a more appealing display. If you are using a display case you can use lighting to make for interesting effects.
Of course the best way to bring attention to your collection is to find a functional purpose for it. Then viewers can’t help but admire it. If you collect vintage lunchboxes you could use them to store napkins or other items. This way your collection gets use instead of blending into the background.
They key to displaying your collection is to make it enjoyable and easily viewable. Think of it this way: stores are essentially a giant collection of clothing. Through their display windows and tables they present that collection. The better it looks the more attention and sales it has. While you’re not trying to sell your collection, you’re trying to present it in a way that will be most appealing to your guests.
