The challenge in another client’s home was the fact that they possessed a large collection of amazingly vibrant paintings, as well as a large collection of furniture. But each looked like they belonged to a different person and house. Because the art was outstanding while the furniture was a “drab mishmash,” it was decided the art would stay while the furniture was cleared out. When refurnishing the home Shirley looked for pieces that highlighted and complimented the art, items with a vintage feel that would bring out the color of the works. This approach is on display in a corner of the dining room; a colorful painting perched on a buffet is paired with a bright sculptural lamp and pale yellow chair. And lastly, in a small breakfast nook that has a den feeling, plates are hung above a sofa. These plates feel right at home in this space adjacent to a kitchen and are more interesting than typical pieces of art would have been. Shirley makes sure to introduce round shapes or something sculptural somewhere in a home. “It can become dull and predictable when art is always square and rectangular.”
SHIRLEY’S TIPS FOR UTILIZING ART IN DESIGN “I find people in general can be timid when it comes to art. Typical missteps include hanging art too high and selecting art that is too small for a space, both of which are not effective. People also tend to want to put something on every wall, but it’s important for balance within a home to leave some empty space on walls. Mixing in round and sculptural items, such as plates and starbursts, alongside squares and
rectangles results in displays and walls that are less predictable and avoid becoming static. A great approach when looking for and installing art is to mix less expensive, perhaps even vintage finds, with the investment pieces. If later you’d like to shift things around, being less committed to all the pieces it’s not such a big deal!”
63