How To: Decorating with Clocks

“The hours of folly are measured by the clock; but of wisdom, no clock can measure.” – William Blake

Serene Setting

Although clocks may not measure wisdom, they might impart some design acumen. From a little desk clock to a stately grandfather clock and everywhere in between, a well-thought-out clock can provide the perfect accent piece. Click through to see how these ticking beauties, big or small, short or tall, make a statement. Time’s a tickin’!

Tea Time

Tiny teacups form a unique and artistic wall clock.

Rustic Dining Room

A large, rustic clock pairs nicely with old barn boards on the dining room ceiling.

Glamorous Side Table

“I must govern the clock, not be governed by it.” – Golda Meir

Stately Stairway

An antique Swedish clock has a stately presence on a stairway’s landing.

Koa Cuties

Intricately carved Hawaiian koa wood makes for beautiful desk clocks.

Good Gilt

A glided 19th-century mantel clock purchased at the Paris flea market. 

Clockwork

The oversized marble mosaic Waterworks clock with metal hands is a dramatic, moving eye-catcher under the kitchen range’s existing large brick hood.

Wine Room

An antique French bronze clock with a 66-inch diameter looks lovely against gray walls.

Grandfather Time

Classic and striking, a grandfather clock is dressed up for the holidays.

Great Time

A big statement clock is at home above the fireplace in the great room.

Double Duty

Part mirror, part clock, this reflective timepiece shows off nature’s beauty in a year-round garden. 

Kitchen Clock

“No clock is more regular than the belly.” - Francois Rabelais

Greeting Clock

An antique Swedish clock greets guests in the entryway.

Vintage Clock

A beetle vase sits on the mantel with a porthole mirror and vintage clock.

Wall Clock

“Even a stopped clock is right twice a day.” - Marie von Ebner-Eschenbach

Sweetly Swedish

In the foyer, a floor mirror and a Swedish clock both stand 8 feet tall, accentuating the ceiling height.

Charming Kitchen

In the kitchen, a large vintage clock, wood floors, and oversized wall tiles from Walker Zanger set a rustic tone.

Shelf Life

Sleek lines on the clock have a more casual look, which fits in with the simple design of the space.

French Flair

Antique copper items are displayed with a vintage French railroad clock.

Simple Style

The old clock face once graced a public building but now makes a lively accent in an otherwise uncomplicated décor.

Mantel Pieces

“There is one kind of robber whom the law does not strike at, and who steals what is most precious to men: time.”  - Napoleon I

The Big Time

Giant hands on the family room wall tell the time in a dramatic way.

Elegant Entry

A stately grandfather clock combined with Zuber et Cie’s “Les Courses de Chevaux” amazing scenic wallpaper contribute to the home’s stunning first impression.

Sleepy Time

A weathered French antique clock hangs in the master bedroom.

Pendulum Clock

“Don't watch the clock; do what it does. Keep going.” - Sam Levenson