When your dining table is in use, it’s the most bustling, exciting, and fun-to-decorate spot in the house. But when it’s not – why shouldn’t it be just as well-adorned? There are so many ways to dress up the surface in a way that suits your home’s style, without making it look cluttered.

Here, a look at 3 creative ideas on how to decorate a dining table.

Decorative objects + footed bowl

It’s a look we’re used to seeing on coffee tables, but shines just as bright on a dining table, as seen here in Nate’s previous Manhattan townhouse. And why not? The low-profile fish candleholders and higher-up footed pottery bowl make for a multi-leveled and textured vignette.

A collection + flowers

In this Chicago dining area decorated by the firm, the table becomes a pedestal for a stunning and varied collection of vases. No need to fill each one with flowers, just choose one to adorn with a few wildflowers to bring some life to the scene. And when it’s time to eat? That’s the one to leave on the table: instant centerpiece.

Formal flowers + a tray + note cards

If you’re lucky enough to receive an arrangement of flowers (or thoughtful enough to gift them to yourself!) give them pride of place on the table, but with a twist: place the vase on a tray. It adds an unexpected touch of texture. Keeping the stack of notecards here – as seen in this Manhattan duplex – is less about form and more about function – though staying on top of your thank-yous never goes out of style.

— Nate Berkus 

All images and content via NateBerkus.com Top photo by Julie Holder.

Left to right: Bob Coscarelli for Chicago Home + Garden; Jason Schmidt for VOGUE