What is ‘corralling’’? We’re falling in love with this new maximalist trend that reframes “clutter” as visual layers of colors, patterns and textures. Not just a way to feel better about leaving things around, the idea of corralling/clustering is taking what may traditionally be considered clutter, (candles, bottles, books) and grouping them together to visually become one item instead of many items. A stack of books, a collection of perfume bottles, and jewelry on a tray all become simple yet stylish accentuations to your interior.

Interested in trying it out yourself? Here’s how to get started:

Start with what you have.

Books, candles, and flowers are classic decorations for every home, and grouping them together allows you to tell a story about your interests while making an eye-catching statement. Pile the bigger books on the bottom, then top off with your favorite candle, flowers, or even a free-standing art piece to complete the look.

Begonia Cloche Box of Matches, Octagonal Brass Plate, Oval Open Lace Weave Tray, & Mosteria Tea Towels.

Match clusters to the room.

A big part of making clutter look like clusters is making sure they match the purpose (and aesthetic!) of the room you are decorating. That means no jewelry in the kitchen. Instead give your everyday jewelry a place in the bathroom, perhaps on a small golden dish, along with a matching tray for scented items like soap or candles, and a spot for you to show off your fluffy makeup brushes (and keep them more accessible!).

Brass Oval Tray, Octagonal Brass Plate, Brass Cup, d'Armenie Candle, & Peony & Rosehip Shea Butter Soap.

Create Order.

Still think your clutter feels uncurated? We recommended using trays to (as the trend says) corral items together and give them their own space within the space. This will reduce the “visual noise” your clutter may give off and make the clustering look even more intentional. Adding in a tray also gives more texture to your cluster, which makes it seem effortless yet detailed.

Nomenclature of Colors Enamel Printed Tray, The Art of Colouring Enamel Printed Tray, Tomato Red Scarf No. 675, Bali Rattan Round Storage Box with Lid

Looking to cluster your clutter? Explore our selection of boxes, trays, and catchalls—perfect solutions to keep everything in its place. Shop Now>