This Funky, Fun Trend Has Moved From Home Renovations to Home Decor
Lately, I’ve been seeing windows and cutouts become popular in home renos again, with homeowners hoping to combine the best of both worlds when it comes to open-concept plans versus closed rooms. There’s also been a surge in cutout, or recessed, shelves that sit back inside walls instead of protruding like more traditional built-ins.
The cutout trend isn’t only for large-scale renovations and home improvements though; the same kind of feature can be found across plenty of smaller furnishings and decor items like accent chairs, vases, and side tables. The beauty of these pieces is that they allow sight lines through them, keeping things light and airy in a space.
I’ve collected eight of my favorite pieces — from lamps to drink pitchers — that incorporate statement-making cutouts without a total home overhaul. Even better, prices start at just $30!
Large Ceramic Vase
These donut-shaped vases from H&M home are almost synonymous with the brand — they’re seriously that popular. Style one (or two!) on a shelf with a few sprigs of dried pampas grass or leafy eucalyptus for an accent that’ll last months on end.
Buy: Large Ceramic Vase, $34.99 from H&M Home
Stature Black Chair
If you’re looking for a stately dining or accent chair, try one or two of these structural yet cozy chairs. They’re upholstered in nubby bouclé fabric, come in statement-making black and classic cream colorways, and would be the perfect touch of modern in a warm, inviting room.
Buy: Stature Black Chair, $399.00 from CB2
Haussmann Wood Wave Verve Accent Table
This accent table combines two trends: curves and cutouts. Carved from a single block of sustainably-harvested acacia wood, these snake-like numbers make the perfect drink table for the side of a couch, or even as a statement-making entryway piece.
Buy: Haussmann Wood Wave Verve Accent Table, $216.94 from Overstock
Vera Ceramic Side Table
Speaking of side tables, this one combines a smooth ceramic outer shell and a peekaboo round cutout for a nice dose of visual interest. The best thing about this table is that it looks substantial and grounded but maintains an air of lightness, thanks to the cutout. Plus, it comes in three go-with-everything colors: ivory, black, and rust.
Buy: Vera Ceramic Side Table, $249.00 from Urban Outfitters
Triomphe Arch Vases
Arches, in essence, are cutouts, too. Whether they’re reflected in the doorway of a room or in a smaller-scale vase like what you see here, arches provide a bit of an organic, Art Deco look.
Buy: Triomphe Arch Vases, Starting at $59.99 from Sage & Sill
White Abstract Ceramic Lyra Table Lamp Base
Similar to a lot of cutout decor pieces, this lamp combines creamy tones with ceramic, which makes it easy to mix with a variety of design styles. I’d recommend placing it somewhere it can be shown off, like an entryway table or even on the kitchen counter. Just note that you will need to purchase the shade separately; still, it’s a great price point for its size.
Buy: White Abstract Ceramic Lyra Table Lamp Base, $69.99 from World Market
Ona Large Pitcher
The bubble-like cutout of this pitcher upgrades what would have been a very simple design with just a bit of whimsy. Even better, the cutout also acts as a handle so you can confidently pour water for a table or serve perfectly-aerated red wine.
Buy: Ona Large Pitcher, $29.95 from Crate & Barrel
Velvet Hagen Dining Chair
Available in four different colorways, this modern, velvet take on a classic dining chair blends a curvy cutout seamlessly in with the rest of the chair. Pair them with a more traditional or rustic table for an eclectic vibe.
Buy: Velvet Hagen Dining Chair, $398.00 from Anthropologie