An important and often overlooked element to a completed design space is the artwork.  Whether chosen at the end of the process, like an exclamation point at the end of a sentence, or used to build the entire design concept, artwork can elevate a design and transform a room into something sublime.

Here are some tips when selecting and designing with art:

1. Of all the elements in a designed space, artwork is, perhaps, the most personal. The best place to start is with what you love.  What are you drawn to?  Is it color or texture?  A painting you can fall into, such as landscape, or an abstract that makes you stop and think?  Perhaps photography or artwork purchased on your travels that tells the story of you.  Maybe you want one large over-scaled statement piece, or a gallery wall of your eclectic collection.

2. Some artwork is at its best when chosen organically, and not purchased to fit the space because of color and size. Not sure it will work in your space?  Select a color or element in the artwork, and repeat it two or three times in the room and it will feel more cohesive and intentional.

3. How to display art in our homes? An easy first step is to make artwork the focal point.  Whether over a fireplace, or hung on an accent wall, be sure it is well lit.  Carefully placed ceiling lights, or picture lights will ensure that your artwork is out of the dark and ready to be seen.  Do not hang artwork too high.  A good rule of thumb is to hang the center of the artwork at eye level, about 60 – 64” above the floor.  Where artwork is to be enjoyed while seated, such as a dining room, it can be hung a bit lower.

4. Don’t forget the frame! First and foremost, frames protect your artwork, not just from dinged corners, but it stabilizes your artwork, and properly framed, it will preserve your artwork for many years.  But not only that, frames are the jewelry on your artwork.  You wouldn’t get dressed up for a cocktail party in your finest dress and not add jewelry, would you?  Properly selected frames make your artwork sing!