There are vases that do an admirable job of holding flowers – which you probably have forgotten you even own. And then there are statement vases that have the power to transform an interior in an instant. It's the latter category that is set to bring much-needed joie de vivre to this year's decorating: big bold, oversized designs and unusual shapes are dominating the spring collections.
In fact, a great-looking vase doesn't necessarily require any flowers at all. As Emily Dunstan, Home Buyer at Heal’s, explains, 'vases can often be overlooked as an accessory, and simply used as a vessel to showcase flowers rather than drawing attention to itself. However, opting for a statement vase is a really easy and effective way to bring colour, texture and form to a room at any time of year – regardless of whether you have a fresh bouquet to display.'
Of course, size isn't everything when it comes to a vase making an impact, but a large size does help: 'even the simplest of designs can create a big impact, particularly when it comes to size. The Large Square Vase by 101 Copenhagen carries a neutral and subtle hand-glazed finish, but at 43cm tall will command attention within any pared-back space.
Strom vase by Raawi, Heal's
Impactful colour is another element that makes a statement vase to watch for this spring. Emily points out that 'there’s a real trend for bright, bold colours which will lift the energy of a room – a Bauhaus-inspired palette of punchy primary colours, seen on the Strom Vases by Raawii, will provide a quick injection of personality.'
Whether the material is a bold-coloured, matt ceramic or a playfully iridescent glass, this season's statement vase really claims the space it occupies and can easily compete with other decorative pieces or an ornate chandelier.
Ashton Short Vase, Arteriors
However, according to Helen Pett, design expert at Arteriors London, people are increasingly buying statement vases as standalone sculptural pieces: 'the vases become the main feature and, in some cases, the only part of the arrangement. Statement vases are now more commonly looked at as a standalone piece of art.'
Cheeky Vase, Rose & Grey
Whether minimalist and tasteful or a bit more unusual or even risqué, these crossover decorative pieces are in such high demand because their effect in any room is instant: 'With a newfound appreciation for the finer, more decorative details at home, there has been a huge surge in popularity for our vases and centrepieces. Perfect for embellishing a bare tabletop, sitting atop a cabinet or chimney breast, and even in lieu of wall art – statement vases and centrepieces are the transformative home accessory, easily added into an existing décor scheme to complement and accentuate your interior style and character.'
Mod large vase, Arteriors
What we really like about this season's statement vases is that they can be style in any number of unexpected ways. An ultra-modern or unusually shaped vase can add a surprising new dimension to a neutrally or even traditionally decorated room. More versatile and more functional than wall art, statement vases are the ultimate investment pieces for the new season.
