apartment therapy changing the world, one room at a time

• 1. Stones make beautiful centerpieces on an indoor or outdoor table. The bed of moss is a gorgeous alternative for a table runner, but probably not one you're likely to imitate. Try a simple piece of loose weave or burlap or slubby linen in its place.
• 2. Unfussy, natural looking arrangements are my way to display my blooms, and the casual display of the scattered stones fits perfectly with this laid back look.
• 3. I'm sorry, but I really cannot help myself when it comes to this image. I've seen it a million times, but still delight in it every time. The neat upright display of the stones highlights their simple sculptural shape, and the element of natural imperfection is enhanced by arranging them under the worn wood and in juxtaposition of the polished mantelpiece below. Swoon.
• 4. Smooth stones can also look quite beautiful lined up unadorned on a clean window ledge or shelf.
• 5. I love Megan Duerksen's collection of heart shaped rocks that her children have found for her over the years.
• 6. If the thought of lone stones is a little too rustic for your liking, try arranging stones and other found natural objects in vases the same way that you would groups of cut flowers.
• 7. Or you can group them with other nature walk and beach combing treasures for a unique coffee table display that you can rotate with the seasons. I always find I appreciate the individual seasons more when I bring some natural elements indoors where I can see them regularly.
• 8. Flat stones are probably the most difficult to display. Stacking them cairn style is a beautiful way to show their forms and make them more of a focal point.
• 9. Spread loosely acreoss a mantel, which is usually reserved for a more poised display, creates a lovely and comfortable element of surprise. I love the contrast of the organic stone shapes against the backdrop of this white room steeped in large scale architectural detail.

(Images: 1: Martha Stewart, 2: Lauren Resen, 3: Tanya Goodwin via re:fresh, 4: Real Simple, 5: Megan Duerksen's Whatever Blog, 6: Skona Hem, 7: Sunset Magazine, 8: Pure Style,9: James Merrell)