Trend Watch: Plinths

You should position plinths in areas that can serve as focal points, such as in a corner of the living room. They work best when they’re not obstructed and can be fully appreciated from multiple angles. Avoid placing plinths in high-traffic areas where they can become obstacles or get knocked over. 

Select plinth materials that complement the room's overall aesthetic. Marble, travertine and solid wood work well in most interiors. Avoid materials that clash with the existing furniture. If the space already has a lot of marble or stone, you could opt for wood to add warmth and texture.

Choose a plinth height that complements the height of the objects it will display. For example, a tall, slender sculpture may require a shorter plinth to balance out the proportions, while a smaller art piece might benefit from having a taller plinth for emphasis. Also, if you have a specific sculpture in mind, make sure the base dimension, as well as the overall width, is suited to the size of the plinth, so it looks proportionally correct. Avoid extremes – ensure the plinth and its display piece are in proportion with each other and the surrounding furniture.

To keep your space clean and focused, style plinths with a single statement object, such as a sculpture, ceramic vase or vintage piece. For a cohesive and curated look, consider using plinths in pairs at different heights or as groups. We love styling vases with tall branches, which brings another layer of sculptural element to the space. I’d avoid using the same material in the plinth and the display piece.

One of our favourite looks is a Calacatta Viola marble plinth with a vintage vase and tall magnolia branches. Another lovely combination is a rustic dark timber plinth paired with a vessel that has a more organic shape.