Artwork is the central focus to many of our interiors. With pure and elegant designs for interiors, we create spaces that enhance, organize and provide sophisticated backgrounds to art, and our client’s lives. Here are a few of our tips for living with art.
Art sets the stage
A quiet mix of materials, colors and textures allows for artwork to take center stage and animate a space. This is effective for clients with existing collections, and those looking to explore and purchase artwork.
We worked with this client to define locations ideal for artwork, providing guidance on size and type of art best suited for the space. Photo: Mariko Reed
Neutral greys and textured creams provide a perfect setting for a contemporary photo (which is cleverly hinged to conceal an outlet). Photo: Mariko Reed
Focal points
I often use artwork as focal points, drawing our eye to help guide one’s progression through space. Long hallways, entry paths, exterior views with trees (or sculpture) can be useful tools.
Quiet moments
Smaller pieces can best be appreciated in isolated moments, often to be viewed up close. Intimate spaces created in larger rooms are ideal locations for art, helping to provide focus and clarity. Photo: Mariko Reed
A work on paper is grouped with prized objects in this open plan kitchen.
Contrast art with color and pattern
A dynamic dialogue can be created with a mix of color, pattern, scale and collectible furniture, often expressing deeper interests of the client. The result can be a visually rich and compelling space, expressive of the joys of collecting.
Accentuate art with color
Sometimes more is more! And rather that overpowering a room, an enveloping space of color and texture can really make a room come alive. Photo: Mariko Reed
Gallery setting
Installing art in a way that allows for life to be lived is key to a successful collection, whether it is one painting a group of pieces. By creating useful pieces that serve dual function, art and life can be mixed with ease.
Above, photographs, ceramics, sculpture and painting live together comfortably in this San Francisco Marina home. Photo: David Duncan Livingston
At left, a custom sideboard in leather and teak is ideal for larger dinner parties and showcasing art. Photo: Mariko Reed
Getting started
My client-centered process of design is one of discovery and deeper conversation about aesthetic preferences, which translates easily to starting to think about buying art. I encourage my clients to visit (now virtually) museums and art galleries, recommend a particular piece for a space, or enlist the involvement of an art advisor.
A photo collage was purchased after we filled a living room with objects and colors that provide our clients great joy. Photo: Mariko Reed
Working with collectors
An art collection helps jump start my creative involvement on a home design, by bringing the clients personality into interior focus. I like to tailor interiors to showcase clients’ existing artwork, often using artwork as the basis for determining colors, guiding furniture arrangements, and defining space. I’m also interested in creating different moods in interiors, and artwork can be used to create a rhythm in space.