how to style ceramic vases - bedside

5 Stylish Ways to Style Your Vase - From Bench to Bedside

Vases are more than just vessels for flowers—they’re timeless accents that bring beauty, texture, and personality into every corner of your home. Whether your vases are holding a fresh bloom or standing sculpturally on their own, styling your ceramic vase well can elevate your space from ordinary to effortlessly elegant. So lets discuss how to style ceramic vases using elegant decorating ideas from bench to bedside.

If you’ve ever wondered how to style ceramic vases in a way that feels modern yet timeless, this guide will walk you through beautiful ideas for every room—from the entry bench to your bedside table. For all the pieces featured in these looks, explore the elegant range in the One Six Eight London Vase Collection.

 

Why Ceramic Vases Are the Ultimate Styling Staple

In Australian interiors, ceramic vases are celebrated for their textural charm, earthy tones, and quiet sophistication. Their versatility makes them ideal for every home style—from coastal minimalism to contemporary luxe. Whether you prefer soft matte finishes or sculptural statement pieces, ceramic vases can instantly harmonise your space.


1. How to Style Vases in the Entryway: Create a Warm Welcome

Your entryway sets the tone for your entire home—it’s where first impressions are made and where your personal style should quietly shine. A well-chosen ceramic vase can instantly elevate this space, offering both functionality and elegance.

Start with height and scale. A tall ceramic vase works beautifully on a narrow console or entry bench, adding vertical interest and drawing the eye upward. Choose a calming hue like soft blush, muted sage, or classic stone to complement natural materials like timber or rattan commonly found in Australian entryways.

Choose the right filler. Dried pampas grass, olive branches, or even sculptural bare twigs add a soft, organic touch without needing constant upkeep. In summer, swap for fresh natives like eucalyptus for a seasonal refresh.

Layer for visual balance. To complete the look:

  • Anchor the vase with a rectangular tray or stack of coffee table books in neutral tones.
  • Hang a round or arched mirror behind it to reflect light and visually expand the space.
  • Add a dish for keys, a ceramic bowl, or a small candle to create a vignette that’s both beautiful and functional.

Styling tip: If your entryway has open shelving or a shoe rack, repeat the vase colour or texture elsewhere in the space—like a clay pot on the floor or a ceramic wall hook—to tie the whole area together.

With just one thoughtfully styled ceramic vase, your entryway becomes a serene, welcoming portal into your home.

 

2. Living Room Layers: Build Texture and Balance

When exploring how to style ceramic vases in your living room, think in layers. Cluster two or three matte ceramic vases of varying heights, such as the Fern or Willow designs from our collection, on a sideboard or coffee table. Add seasonal florals—or allow the vase forms to speak for themselves. This mix of texture and scale adds depth and visual interest.

For a cohesive and curated look, try the following tips:

  • Group vases in odd numbers (3's work best) for a natural, relaxed arrangement.
  • Vary heights and shapes to add movement and dimension.
  • Keep a consistent colour palette that complements your cushions or wall art.
  • Mix in other elements, such as books, trays, or candles, to anchor your styling.

Whether filled with florals or left empty to showcase their sculptural beauty, ceramic vases can transform your living room into a thoughtfully styled haven.

 


3. How to Style Ceramic Vases on the Dining Table: Make a Bold Centrepiece

Your dining table deserves more than placemats and candles. A sculptural ceramic vase—like the Millie or Claudia—makes for a bold centrepiece. For impact, go for tall natives, dried florals, or even a single dramatic monstera leaf.

For longer tables, consider a symmetrical arrangement with matching vases at each end, and a medium-sized hero vase in the centre. Opt for neutral or earthen tones that don’t overpower your dining ware.

how to style ceramic vases - Dining Table Cluster


4. Kitchen Corners: How to Style Ceramic Vases in Functional Spaces

Kitchens are often overlooked for décor—but a well-placed vase can make even the most functional corner feel elevated.

Add subtle charm to your kitchen with a compact ceramic vase from our curated range. Styles like the Mai decorative bowl or minimalist Claudia vase work beautifully when placed near the sink or on floating shelves. In addition to their beauty, fill with fresh herbs to introduce subtle fragrance and greenery.


how to style ceramic vases - Mai Bowl Kitchen Counter


5. How to Style Ceramic Vases on the Bedside Table: Create Calm and Serenity

Your bedside table isn’t just a surface—it’s part of your nightly ritual, a quiet place that signals rest, reflection, and retreat. Styling it with a ceramic vase adds a tactile beauty that brings softness and intentionality to your bedroom.

Choose a delicate design. Consider a smaller textured vase like the Rhianna or classic white Mila. These petite pieces offer visual calm, especially when paired with linen bedding and gentle, ambient lighting.

Add a soft botanical moment. A single bloom—perhaps a blush-toned carnation, sprig of dried lavender, or soft bunny tail grass—adds a poetic, low-maintenance touch. It doesn’t need to be elaborate; even one stem can bring grace to the space.

Create a nightly ritual. Pair your vase with a soy candle in a calming scent like sandalwood or eucalyptus, and your current read or journal. This trio creates a mood of stillness and slow living—an elegant counter to the noise of the day.

Styling tip: Use a small ceramic tray to group your items and avoid clutter. This also adds a sense of intention and cohesion to your vignette.

When styled with care, your bedside vase becomes more than décor—it becomes part of a peaceful rhythm, inviting you to unwind with beauty and grace. As a final touch, pair with a candle and your current book for a gentle, elegant nightstand arrangement.

 

Bonus: Styling Ceramic Vases by Shape and Colour

Shape

  • Tall and slim: Ideal for mantels, consoles, or narrow spaces.
  • Round or bulbous: Best for bookcases, coffee tables, or layered vignettes.
  • Tapered or abstract: Sculptural designs make great stand-alone pieces.

Colour

  • Neutrals (white, stone, blush): Timeless and versatile.
  • Earth tones (terracotta, clay): Warm and grounding.
  • Muted pastels (sage, dusty blue): Soft and calming—perfect for bedrooms and bathrooms.

Quick Tips: Vase Styling Do’s and Don’ts

Do:

  • Group vases in threes or fives for balance.
  • Let negative space work for you—don’t overcrowd.
  • Echo the room’s materials—timber, linen, or rattan—for a cohesive feel.

Don’t:

  • Over-accessorise. If the vase is bold, let it shine.
  • Mix too many colours or finishes.
  • Forget scale—match vase size to the surface space.

Final Thoughts: Style with Intention

Styling ceramic vases is about more than decoration—it’s about creating moments of calm, beauty, and connection throughout your home. Whether you're designing a welcoming entryway, a sophisticated living room, or a tranquil bedroom retreat, the right vase adds meaning and style.

Explore the full One Six Eight London Vase Collection to discover timeless ceramic pieces for every corner of your space.