The Power of Three

Even if you only have a few items, three or more of the same kind of object can instantly mean a ‘collection.’

No matter what your collection, one designer technique is to present groupings in multiples of three to create the most visual appeal and impact.  Information, colors and objects that appear in threes are more interesting, memorable and balanced.  Balance is an important aspect of good design because it pleases the eye and creates a sense of harmony.

Artwork

Hanging wall art in multiples of three is much more interesting than a single framed piece.  Try hanging three framed art pieces, of the same size, in a row.  Or, you can use one larger piece flanked by two smaller pieces on each side stacked one over the other.  In this case, the total pieces equal five, yet the division in space remains three for a balanced appearance.

Remember, that all three pieces used on the wall do not need to be the same.  For instance, one large mirror with wall sconces on either side provides a lovely effect.

Accessories

The power of three is most effective when placing collections on tabletops.  Carrying through a common theme with varying heights and weights of the objects provides the most visual appeal.  For instance, seaside it may include glass and ceramic vases with a collection of seashells and sea grass.

Seaside Collection

Pillows

You can also use multiples of three when placing throw pillows.  Varying the sizes, shapes, fabrics and trims, all with a unifying theme, such as color, makes for a beautiful arrangement.

Including a throw blanket draped over a sofa, with a large and small pillow is another interesting way to create the power of three.  In a traditional setting, two pillows on one side may be balanced with a larger pillow at the opposite end of a sofa.

On a dining table

On a dining table, a fine way to display silver or any collection is with a central large piece, flanked with tall candles.  No need to stop there, as long as the collections provide the balance of three.  Try three small bud vases on each side of the large middle piece or a collection of salt and pepper shakers can be interestingly displayed.  For a casual look, include a plant or floral in a beautiful planter in the middle and informal candles.  Candlelight at dinner does not need to be reserved for formal affairs.

Display your favorite pottery on a side table.

In the kitchen

An attractive display for the kitchen that’s one of my favorite groupings of three to tuck in a corner is to include from your favorite china collection, a large platter on a plate stand with a large bowl of fruit and water pitcher in front.  Even smaller items, e.g. salt and pepper and sugar bowl, can be put further in front making them beautiful and convenient at the same time.   In the kitchen, not only can you increase the ambiance, but highlight a small collection in multiples of three with a small lamp placed in a darker corner counter top.  Perfectly fitting for a kitchen includes your collection of oil jars, canisters, or fruit and vegetables.

In the powder room

Even if not collectibles, you can display your every day toiletries in a decorative fashion.  Include a beautiful soap dispenser, hand cream, special perfume bottle, a candle or a special fresh floral in a vase.  Collectibles displayed in a powder room can include small items on a shelf, baskets for magazines, tissue and garbage, mirrors or even special towels hung in a pattern of three.

Groupings of three, or multiples of three, will always be the most visually pleasing.  The possibilities are endless.

My personal collections include angels at Christmas, my Father’s gift to my Mother of tea cups and saucers from around the world, antique British maps, floral and bird prints, and native hand made bowls and tiles from our travels…. to name a few.

I would love to see your collection(s).  Please post your pictures.

Pictures courtesy of Thibaut Wallpaper and Fabric