This post is sponsored by Wayfair.
As I approach 40, I find myself favoring fewer, more versatile belongings. Ten years ago I redecorated my house every season; now I prefer to “decorate smarter, not harder.” The secret is choosing flexible decor that works across rooms, seasons, and functions. Pedestal bowls—also called footed bowls or compote bowls—are one of those small, multipurpose pieces that consistently add style and usefulness to a home.
The more possessions you have, the more time, money, and storage you need to manage them. Most of us don’t have extra of any of those, so my solution is to invest in pieces that perform multiple roles. Pedestal bowls are attractive, functional, and surprisingly versatile. I found a range of options at Wayfair, and here are the many practical ways I use them throughout my home.
1. Remote Control Holder
Keep a footed bowl on the coffee table to corral remotes and small electronics. It avoids the common remote scavenger hunt between couch cushions and also makes the coffee table look tidy. A simple ceramic pedestal bowl looks intentional while serving this everyday purpose.
Modern Ceramic Pedestal Bowl
2. Key Bowl
Every entryway benefits from a designated drop zone. A handled footed bowl on the console or entry table gives keys, wallets, and pocket items a tidy home the moment you walk in. It keeps clutter off surfaces and makes leaving the house quicker.
Handled Footed Bowl
3. Fruit Bowl
A ceramic pedestal bowl on the kitchen counter encourages healthy snacking. Placing fruit in a central, visible spot keeps it top of mind and reduces waste. It also doubles as timeless countertop decor with zero effort.
4. Table Centerpiece
A compote or gold pedestal bowl makes an instant elegant centerpiece. Fill it with fresh or faux flowers—and florist foam helps keep arrangements in place—or switch to seasonal items. At Christmas I fill mine with evergreen sprigs and ornament balls for a quick, festive focal point.
Gold Compote Bowl
5. Pocket Change Holder
Keep a small pedestal bowl on your dresser to collect coins, receipts, and other items that accumulate in pockets. It keeps surfaces neat and makes it easy to find spare change when you need it.
Small Gold Pedestal Bowl
6. Planter Bowl
Use a footed bowl as an informal planter or to display a potted plant. A pedestal bowl elevates greenery and works well on plant stands, side tables, or hallways. It adds visual interest during transitional decorating phases.
Black Footed Bowl
7. Candy Dish
Place a compote bowl on the guest room nightstand filled with chocolates or candies for a welcoming touch. It’s a small, thoughtful gesture that also doubles as a decorative accent.
Glass Hobnail Footed Dish
8. Toiletry Holder
If an item lives on the countertop, it should be attractive. A woven pedestal bowl looks great holding washcloths, cotton pads, or rolled hand towels in the bathroom. It keeps essentials accessible while elevating the look of the vanity.
Of course, pedestal bowls also work perfectly as serving ware, but their versatility across everyday spaces is what makes them truly valuable. Use them to organize, decorate, and simplify—small items that improve daily life and the overall flow of your home.
Favorite Pedestal Bowls for All Budgets
Here are a few pedestal bowls I recommend—options in ceramic, glass, metal, marble, and woven finishes that suit different styles and price points. These picks work beautifully as functional decor in every room.
- Gold Hammered Compote Bowl
- Woven Rattan Pedestal Bowl
- Marble Footed Bowl
- Handled Footed Bowl
- Black Pedestal Bowl
- Glass Hobnail Pedestal Dish
- White Modern Footed Bowl
- Gold Pedestal Bowl
- Ceramic Footed Bowl
Small details like these make a noticeable difference in day-to-day life. A decorated home is beautiful, but a home that serves you—keeping things organized, accessible, and attractive—feels even better.
More Simplified Decorating Ideas
15 Aesthetically Pleasing Ideas to Hide Ugly Household Items
Simple DIY Flower Arrangement Using Faux Florals
