Gone are the days when it was fashionable to pile shelves with china ornaments or to load a mantelpiece with glass knick knacks or souvenirs from past holidays. Whilst many people are not keen on a total minimalist look for their homes, it is better to have a few things of better quality on display rather than a multitude of cheap items which collect dust and which may clutter up shelves.
So, by all means, display that beautiful vase which was bought in that small workshop in Spain or have one or two special photos of the family displayed in pretty, attractive frames arranged on your mantelpiece.
Some people are really attracted to buying nice pottery or beautiful glassware. If that is the case, it will look better displayed together, creating more of an impact, rather than having one piece here and another over there. So, think about buying a stand alone glass fronted cabinet where your precious collection can be easily seen and admired or hang up a small wall cabinet to house your favourite pieces.