How to Style Décor: Mirrors, Trays, Baskets & More

June 6, 2026

Creating a home that feels both curated and comfortable can seem daunting, but it often comes down to thoughtfully styling a few key pieces. Mirrors, trays, and baskets are not merely functional items; they are powerful design tools that, when used intentionally, can transform a room. From expanding visual space to corralling clutter with elegance, understanding how to integrate these elements will elevate your interiors from simply furnished to truly designed. Let's explore how to make these versatile pieces work for your unique space.

How to Style a Large Wall Mirror

A large wall mirror is more than just a reflective surface; it's an architectural element that can dramatically alter the perception of a room. It expands visual space, amplifies natural light, and can even serve as a captivating piece of art. The key lies in strategic placement and thoughtful integration.

Consider the Reflection: Before hanging, stand in various spots to see what the mirror will reflect. Aim to capture natural light, an attractive view, or another beautiful design element in your room, rather than a cluttered corner or a blank wall.
As a Focal Point: Over a mantelpiece, a console table in an entryway, or above a sofa, a large mirror can anchor a room. Ensure its scale is proportionate to the furniture below it. For instance, a mirror above a console table should ideally be about two-thirds the width of the table.
Expanding Space: In smaller rooms, placing a large mirror on a wall perpendicular to a window can make the space feel significantly larger and brighter.
Frame Matters: The mirror's frame is an integral part of its style. A minimalist metal frame suits contemporary spaces, while an ornate gilded frame adds classical elegance. Choose a frame that complements your existing décor and adds texture or contrast.
Layering: In a living room, a large mirror can be leaned against a wall behind a sofa or credenza, then layered with smaller art pieces or decorative objects on the surface in front of it for a dynamic display.

To find the perfect reflective piece for your home, explore our curated selection of Home Décor & Mirrors.

How to Style a Tray

Trays are unsung heroes of home décor, offering both practical organization and an opportunity for stylish display. They define a zone, gather disparate items into a cohesive vignette, and introduce another layer of texture or material to a surface.

On a Coffee Table or Ottoman: This is a classic placement. Use a tray to corral remotes, coasters, a small stack of books, a scented candle, and a small vase with fresh flowers or a succulent. Vary the heights of the objects for visual interest.
On a Console or Side Table: In an entryway, a tray can hold keys, mail, and a small decorative object. On a bedside table, it can contain a water carafe, a book, and a small dish for jewelry.
In the Bathroom: Elevate everyday essentials by arranging perfumes, lotions, and a rolled hand towel on a beautiful tray.
Mixing Materials: Don't be afraid to mix materials on your tray – a wooden tray with ceramic objects, a metal tray with glass and natural elements. The tray itself acts as a foundational texture.
Less is More: Avoid overcrowding. Leave some negative space on the tray to allow each item to breathe and be appreciated.

What is a Woven Basket? (And its Versatility)

A woven basket is a container crafted by interlacing natural fibers like rattan, seagrass, jute, willow, or bamboo, or sometimes synthetic materials. Beyond their inherent beauty, they are remarkably versatile, adding warmth, texture, and an organic touch to any room.

Stylish Storage: This is their primary superpower. Large baskets are perfect for throws, extra pillows, magazines, or children's toys. Smaller baskets can organize pantry items, toiletries, or craft supplies.
Planter Covers: Elevate your houseplants by placing their nursery pots inside a decorative woven basket. This instantly adds a natural, bohemian touch and hides unsightly plastic pots. Ensure you use a liner or a drip tray inside the basket to protect the material from moisture.
Entryway Catch-All: A sturdy basket by the door can hold shoes, umbrellas, or even serve as a designated spot for grocery bags.
Visual Texture: Even empty, a beautifully woven basket can be a sculptural element. Grouping baskets of different sizes and weaves can create an interesting display.
Laundry Hamper: Replace plastic hampers with large, sturdy woven baskets for a more aesthetic and breathable solution.

Alternatives to Bookends

While traditional bookends serve their purpose, sometimes they don't quite fit the aesthetic or you simply desire a more creative solution. Here are some elegant alternatives to keep your literary collections upright and stylish:

Heavy Decorative Objects: Think beyond the typical. A substantial geode slice, a small weighty sculpture, a unique ceramic vase (empty or with a single dried stem), or even a large, unusually shaped paperweight can act as a sophisticated bookend.
Stacked Books: Use a horizontal stack of a few larger, heavier books at the end of a row of vertically arranged books. This creates a visually interesting break and is an effective way to use some of your collection as part of the display.
Potted Plants: A sturdy, upright plant in a decorative pot, such as a snake plant or a ZZ plant, can provide both visual interest and the necessary weight to hold books in place. Ensure the pot is stable and won't easily tip.
Small, Solid Boxes: A beautiful wooden or lacquered box can serve a dual purpose: holding smaller treasures and supporting your books.
Architectural Elements: If your shelf ends against a wall, a sturdy cabinet, or a built-in feature, these natural boundaries can negate the need for a bookend entirely. Embrace the existing structure.

FAQ

How do I choose the right size mirror for my space?
Consider the wall space available and what you want the mirror to achieve. For a focal point over furniture, aim for the mirror to be roughly two-thirds the width of the piece below it. For full-length utility, choose one tall enough to see your entire reflection. In smaller rooms, a larger mirror can make the space feel bigger, but ensure it doesn't overwhelm the wall.

Can I mix different styles of décor on one tray?
Absolutely! Mixing styles, textures, and eras on a tray can create a dynamic and personal vignette. The key is to find a unifying element, such as a consistent color palette, a shared material (e.g., all natural elements), or a cohesive theme. The tray itself acts as a boundary, helping disparate items feel intentional and collected.

How do I clean a woven basket?
For routine cleaning, simply dust your woven basket with a dry cloth or a soft brush, or use the brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner. For deeper cleaning or minor stains, lightly dampen a cloth with mild soap and water, gently wipe the affected area, and then immediately dry with a clean, dry cloth. Avoid saturating the basket, as excessive moisture can damage the fibers or encourage mold.

Shop related at ARCADA

Back to blog