Decorative trays are usually one of the last home decor items considered in a vacation rental; however, we are of the opinion that this too-often underused item deserves more than just a supporting role. Why? Here’s what trays do:
- They enclose many objects into a single beautiful, simple shape, making something otherwise messy into something visually neat.
- They create separation between surfaces and objects which adds both depth and texture. Sometimes just objects on a table (especially if they are similar in finishes and colors) need a layer in between to create some contrast.
- They function as mini tables or large coasters.
Although we use trays throughout our room designs, we are going to zero in on the three most common places we place them and then highlight some wow-worthy finds.
1. Tray on an Ottoman
Guests appreciate being able to put their feet up while relaxing, especially when watching TV or taking a wee nap. That’s why we specify them frequently in vacation rentals and Airbnbs. Ottomans can be sat upon as well, making them especially convenient when accommodating larger numbers of guests who may need additional seating.
But what to do about a place to put drinks or hor d’oeuvres in such a layout? The tray of course! We favor sturdy ones with lots of surface area, like this wooden one below. Trays can languish on the ottoman itself or even be moved onto a sofa or even a lap for convenience and adaptability, whatever suits the occasion.
2. Tray on a Nightstand
Nightstands are full of a lot of little things – jewelry, water glasses, alarm clocks, etc., and these things need a home, which is why we consider a nightstand tray a necessity. Not only are they practical but they are also stylish. We go as big as we can; sometimes that means a larger rectangular tray and other times, only a small tray will do for space constraints.
3. Tray on a Coffee Table
Coffee tables often become a catchall for just about anything and everything in a vacation home’s living or family room- magazines and books, remotes, plants or flowers (both real and faux), the occasional plate of leftover food. So to help combat that and get you a little bit more organized we commonly specify a large tray. In Mercedes’s Savannah house, we specified a huge wicker tray with a glass insert upon which we placed a faux succulent in an antique bronze bowl with magazines scattered next to it. The tray adds dimensionality to the large black lacquered coffee table making it more visually interesting.
So now that we have hopefully convinced you, here are some more wow-worthy trays to consider for your STR or Airbnb….
