These photographs from British flower shop Scarlet & Violet offer a few unconventional but easily doable ideas for building "effortlessly chic" centerpieces for a dining table, mantel, or buffet...

1. Stacks of dishes create height and loosen up an arrangement of roses.
2. A task lamp spotlights a group of flowers tucked inside candelabras and vases.
3. For a casual look, group arrangements on a chair seat and side table.
4. It's hard to go wrong with white flowers, greens, and just a few white knick-knacks.
5. When you're using matching urns, soften the formality by mixing up flowers and heights.

Photos: Scarlet & Violet