Are you on the hunt for artwork that will inspire your interior design? Or are you looking for a piece to incorporate into your current design? A serious art collector may want to create a gallery-style space, whereas others prefer to integrate artwork into their interior design.
“To harmonize the whole is the task of art.” Wassily Kandinsky’s words describe our approach to interior design. Our goal is to balance all the elements of a space creating complementary layers of architectural details, materials, finishes, furnishings, accessories, and artwork.
Today, I am sharing 6 tips to help you create harmony in your space as you place existing or new artwork into your home.
1. Select Statement Pieces First
These are your attention seekers! Select a piece that speaks to you as well as to the design of your room. This could be an investment piece, a bold piece, a very large piece, or a heavily framed piece.
2. Choose the Best Location
Location, location, location! Decide where a statement piece is needed. Common spaces for a statement piece may be over the fireplace, in a line of sight, or as an anchor piece for a grouping. Balance stronger pieces in areas where they will complement, rather than compete with, other pieces, architectural features, or furnishings.
3. The Location Determines the Size and Shape
After you have chosen the location of your statement piece, you may now determine the size and shape of the art based on what the location requires. An oversized piece can add drama to a space if it is balanced with other large elements in the room.
Determine if the spot calls for a vertical, horizontal or square shape. Use these details when you go to select your art piece.
4. Contrast with Style and Color
Contrast can add energy to a room! Placing abstract artwork in a more traditional space can add unexpected interest and impact, so long as it does not compete with existing colors or patterns in the space. A bright and colorful piece can add energy to an otherwise neutral or softly colored space.
Contrasting both style and color intensity may cause artwork to clash with the style of a room. Choose art that contrasts with one, either style or color, to help maintain balance.
5. Always Remember the Frame!
Frames are extremely important for both the artwork and the overall design of the room. A frame can complement or detract from a piece of art. When choosing a frame, determine if the art needs a mat or liner to set it off or increase the overall size of the piece.
The art and the frame are a part of the interior design so be sure to choose a frame that keeps with the style of the room.
6. Select Supporting Pieces
Supporting pieces can be more subtle, deferring attention to your statement pieces. Examples of supporting art are a smaller heavily matted piece or a less colorful piece like drawings in pen, ink, or charcoal.
“Non-art” pieces are also helpful in areas where the transition between pieces is needed. Wall sculptures, mirrors, and found objects can do the job while adding diversity and interest to the walls.
Think about what you would like to see in potential artwork locations in your home before you locate existing favorite pieces or collect new ones. Artwork that speaks to you and layers beautifully with the other elements in your design can elevate and refine your home’s interior as well as express your unique personal style.
We are here to help with the plan! Reach out to us, we’d be delighted to help you find the perfect statement piece for your home. Happy Collecting!
Until next time,
Kathy
