How to Choose a Decorative Vase
A guide to choosing the right decorative vase — a design object, with or without flowers, that can fill an empty corner all on its own.
A decorative vase is often more than the flowers you put in it. It is a design object that fills an empty corner, completes a shelf or console and can be displayed entirely on its own. The right vase quietly turns an ordinary spot into the focal point of the room.
In this guide we explain what to look for when choosing a vase, which form suits which space, and why 3D-printed design vases stand out.
6 things to consider when choosing a decorative vase
01Where will you use it?
Living room coffee table, console, bookshelf, dining table, bedroom chest of drawers... Where the vase goes determines its size and form. A large corner of the living room can carry a tall, striking vase, while a shelf is balanced by a small, simple form.
02Size and proportion
Size is the most important decision for a vase. A low vase gets lost in a large space; models for the floor or large corners should be taller and more defined. Small to medium sizes look balanced on shelves and coffee tables, and an upright silhouette on a console. Think of the vase together with the place where it will stand.
03Form and design language
Form is what really sets a decorative vase apart. A simple cylinder, an organic curve or a sculptural, amorphous body each brings a different character to a space. Clean, architectural forms give a sense of order and calm; organic forms add a warmer, softer feel. A vase should look beautiful even when empty.
04Material and texture
Material defines a vase’s character. Glass lets light through and feels airy; ceramic and matte surfaces offer a natural, warm texture. In recent years, materials such as 3D-printed matte PLA have come to the fore: lightweight, durable and textured, they give a ceramic-like feel while offering a much wider range of forms and colours.
05Colour harmony
Colour makes a vase part of your decor. A calm colour that matches the tones of the space lets the vase blend in; a contrasting tone makes it the accent of the room. In a neutral space, an earth or chocolate tone adds warmth, while in a simple corner a vivid colour creates a focal point.
06With or without flowers?
Modern decor’s favourite approach: the decorative vase without flowers. A vase with a strong design reflects the “less is more” philosophy even when empty. If you like, you can complete it with dried flowers, pampas grass or a few branches. If you want to use fresh flowers, you will need to keep the water in a separate container (see care).
Which vase for which space?
Living room and lounge
The coffee table, TV unit or mantelpiece are where a vase is most visible. A single large vase creates a strong focal point; using several vases of different heights together adds visual depth.
Console and hallway
The entrance is where first impressions are made. A symmetrical pair of vases on a console creates a classic balance; an asymmetrical group of different heights gives a more modern effect.
Shelves and bookcases
Vases of different heights between books break up the monotony of a shelf. On a colourful shelf, a single-colour vase restores balance; on a simple shelf, a textured form adds character.
Dining table and bedroom
Choose a low vase for the centre of the dining table, so that it doesn’t block the view of people sitting opposite each other. On a bedroom chest of drawers, a small vase in a calm tone makes a sophisticated touch.
How should you group vases?
A single vase makes a strong statement; but decorators’ favourite trick is to use vases of different heights and in odd numbers (usually 3) together. Tone-on-tone colours or pieces from the same material family look stylish together and add rhythm to a space.
Why are 3D-printed vases standing out?
Mass-produced vases all look alike. 3D printing makes it possible to produce original forms in a wide choice of colours on demand; the matte PLA surface gives a natural, textured feel, and is light yet durable. With Nazze Studio’s “form is function” approach, these vases are not mass-produced containers, but design objects made for your space.
Featured decorative vases from Nazze Studio
Nazze vases are lightweight, durable decorative objects made from 3D-printed matte PLA. They are available in a wide palette of colours.
A vase inspired by architectural lines that combines the pure strength of a perfect cylinder with the elegance of a vertical form; it brings order and calm to a space. Ideal for living rooms, workspaces, shelves and coffee tables. 13×30 cm, 6 colours. view product →
Use and care
Nazze vases are designed for decorative use. Wipe the matte surface with a dry or slightly damp soft cloth; avoid abrasive cleaners. They are ideal with dried flowers or pampas, or simply on their own. If you would like to use fresh flowers and water, place a separate watertight container (a glass bottle or jar) inside the vase; do not pour water directly into the vase. Keep the vase away from direct high heat and prolonged sunlight.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a decorative vase, and what is it for?
A decorative vase is a design object that can be displayed on its own, beyond simply holding flowers. It fills an empty corner, completes shelves and consoles, and adds character to a space.
How big should a vase be?
It should be in proportion to where it will stand. Tall, defined models suit large corners and the floor; small to medium vases look balanced on shelves and coffee tables. A low vase gets lost in a large space.
How do you use a vase without flowers?
A vase with a strong design looks stylish even when empty. It can be completed with dried flowers, pampas grass or a few branches; grouping vases of different heights is also an effective approach.
Can you put water and fresh flowers in a 3D-printed (PLA) vase?
These vases are designed for decorative use. For fresh flowers, place a separate watertight container (a glass bottle or jar) inside; water should not be poured directly into the vase. They are ideal with dried flowers or on their own.
How should vases be grouped?
Using vases of different heights and in odd numbers (usually 3) together creates visual rhythm. Tone-on-tone colours or pieces from the same material family look stylish together.
Are 3D-printed vases durable?
Matte PLA is lightweight and sturdy, and suitable for normal household use. We recommend keeping it away from direct high heat and prolonged sunlight.
The right decorative vase quietly turns an empty corner into the focal point of the room. First decide where you will use it and what kind of feeling you want; then complete that corner with the right size, a beautiful form and a harmonious colour. With flowers if you like, or simply with its form.