Anthropologie Store
I recently visited an Anthropologie store and took a few photos I wanted to share. I’ve written before about decorating lessons learned from Anthropologie — last time from the Seattle store, this time from Portland — and every visit reminds me how their displays encourage creativity and playful thinking. Their installations are a great reminder that decorating can be inventive, personal, and budget-friendly when we let ourselves experiment.
Many ideas you see in a store window might not translate exactly into a home, but they do highlight an important point: we are only limited by our own creativity. With a little imagination, everyday objects can be transformed into unique home décor. The trick is learning to look at common items in new ways and giving yourself permission to decorate in a way that reflects your own style instead of copying what everyone else has.
To help spark a few ideas, here are some simple, creative uses for ordinary items I noticed at Anthropologie:
The top photo shows birdhouses made from cardboard boxes, and if you look behind the birdcages you’ll see clever layering that adds depth to the display.
Simple fabric squares overlapped to create an interesting and affordable wall covering — a great way to add texture and color without a big investment.
One display even used a utility light as a striking fixture. It’s a good reminder that industrial or utilitarian pieces can be repurposed into attractive lighting in a home.
There was also a charming plant table — a simple grouping of plants and rustic surfaces that feels fresh and livable.
Above a rack of clothes, bottles and rope were arranged like unexpected artwork. It’s a useful idea: everyday recyclables, like glass bottles and twine, can become sculptural displays or inexpensive wall art.
One standout used thousands of coffee filters to form a large paper flower collage on the wall. This is an approachable DIY you can scale to fit a hallway, living room, or even a wreath. Those layered, ruffled petals call to mind the tissue-paper flowers we used to make as kids — simple, nostalgic, and very effective at creating soft visual interest.
Other displays showcased cabinets, armoires, light fixtures, soaps, candles, quilts, and books — items arranged in ways that invite you to linger and imagine them in your own home. The mix of textures, colors, and everyday objects creates a warm, curated feel without being precious.
What is your favorite thing to look at in Anthropologie?
Pssst… I have a creative Anthropologie-inspired accessory to share soon. I’m excited about it and think you will be too — stay tuned!
Lessons from Anthropologie