Decorating & Design
February 1, 2023
Trending Now: Smalls — Try Tiny Art To Make A Big Statement
Sometimes the smallest moments can have the biggest impact. “While something large shouts for attention and becomes unmissable, it’s the small piece that often draws me in because, to fully appreciate the work, you have to get up close and experience it one-on-one,” says H&H columnist and art advisor Diana Hamm. You don’t need acres of wall space for a small piece of art, so they can fit in kitchens, shelves, compact foyers and small bathrooms. See how designers and artists master the art of playing with scale. Scroll down!
In fashion stylist Erica Wark’s compact foyer, an antique mirror that acts as art may seem off-kilter on the vent hood, but feels right at home in her Victorian home that’s packed with vintage finds and unexpected moments.
Here, Tom Design Studio plays with scale, juxtaposing a huge gilt mirror with a small contemporary piece.
In designer Nyla Free’s bathroom, art she made as a teenager has pride of place above the freestanding tub, along with a vintage chandelier that once hung in her grandparents’ dining room.
A small painting draws focus to make a camouflaged cabinet seem all the more invisible. Designer Colette van den Thillart calls this chartreuse dining room an “electric box.”
Stacked pastoral paintings are a perfect fit in a bathroom bathed in Cushing Green by Benjamin Moore.
Not all art has to be hung at eye level. Here a petite work is grounded by a vintage chair, which doubles as a nightstand.
A vintage floral painting dresses up a vent hood and is further elevated by brass wall sconces.
Every room needs a hit of black according to Lynda Reeves. In her lakehouse guest room, a bold black frame and lampshade are subtle, but emphasize the artwork and accessories.
Open shelves are an ideal spot to display smaller works. This homeowner’s art adorns floating shelves above her bar area, while cubbies under the counter stash art supplies. “Every house has a personality and a history — just like a person — and I wanted where I lived to feel that way,” she says.