There's a reason that those clever stylists employ the color coding trick so often: it grabs attention without shocking the senses in the way that a riot of color might. Spread around the room, objects of similar colors can add a subtle continuity, but can also get lost in the mix. Together in a grouping, it's all about a pleasing impact.

If you're like most people, you are probably drawn to a certain color. And if you are, you may have the start of a fabulous collection without even realizing it. Ever since I was in middle school, I've loved the color green, and have slowly amassed a collection of green-shade objects: pottery, boxes, vases, etc. Together, the variety of forms and subtle color variations make a pleasing display that was lost when some were tucked away in the bedroom, others in the kitchen, and still more scattered around other rooms.

Objects need not be of the same family to work. Dishes, sculpture, and one dimensional artwork can all be part of the same cohesive display— the variety of forms and slight color variations is what adds the interest. I prefer monochromatic groupings, but for a bigger impact, try grouping other colors in close proximity (picture 10) — half-sister of color-coded bookshelves.

Images: 1: Skona Hem; 2: Country Home; 3: Canadian House & Home; 4: via Desire To Inspire; 5: Bailey's Home & Garden; 6: Better Homes & Gardens; 7, 8: Country Living; 9: Domino, 10: DesignFormuLA via Apartment Therapy

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