Displaying Collections without being Cluttered

So with all the organizing and cleaning out we do this time of year it can create a small dilemma for some of us.  How can we display things without it looking cluttered?  I was thinking about this very problem this weekend and decided to go on a hunt for some inspiration of rooms and places where that had been accomplished.  Let’s check them out and see what we can learn.

I love the way the pottery in this room is organized by color.  Nothing cluttered here!

traditional living room design by other metros interior designer Joni Spear Interior Design

Another great example of grouping similar colors together.  The all white look is so classy!

traditional dining room design by san francisco media and blogs My Romantic Home

Sometimes collections look great when placed up high where they can be observed.  I think the look of this bottle collection is so eclectic and organic – but it is not cluttered!

modern kitchen design by san francisco architect ChrDAUER Architects

Another all white collection – I love this one.  Isn’t this room just beautiful! 

traditional living room design by dc metro kitchen and bath SKD STUDIOS

This is a great example of mixing two different types of collections.  One is pottery the other is calligraphy – but they both have an similar feel which keeps the look cohesive.

contemporary living room design by los angeles interior designer Tracy Murdock Allied ASID

Love this grouping of larger items too and how they are grouped according to size. 

contemporary living room design by interior designer uttara and adwait

These plates on the ledge are another great example and a great way to use some of that wasted space above the cabinets.

eclectic kitchen design by other metros general contractor Andrew Melaragno

Finally – this last picture has so much.  A great collection of globes, tins, books, and model planes and cars.  All balanced and perfectly uncluttered.  (Although I am not sure about the parrot over there to the left.)

traditional family room design by san francisco interior designer ADEENI DESIGN GROUP

So there you go – now what do you think?  What are your tips on how to display collections?  Or what are your fears on how collections can become cluttered?  Let’s all share and see what we can learn!