Introduction
Art has the power to transform a space and elevate a home to a new level of detail, sophistication, and refinement. Whether it’s a stunning piece of abstract art or a classical portrait, the right piece of art can add instant character to any room. Art is a unique medium that can be used to express deep emotions, explore idealistic concepts, and present material in a way that cannot be replicated with other forms of expression. It’s an important part of any home, no matter the style or décor. In the present article, I will share with you how art can be used in design projects to create a variety of aesthetic and emotional effects.
How to Incorporate Art into Your Home
In the design of a room, art is an essential element that contributes to the vision and character of a space. I always incorporate art into every project, but there are two specific moments in the design process when I find it particularly effective:
Art as a starting point in the design process
When a client approaches me to design a project, I begin by choosing artistic elements that can be used as inspiration for the overall theme of the project. I might incorporate my client's favorite artwork, or I can use one of my own choosing. It is a way to add a special level of appreciation to a piece of art, providing great opportunity for you to be influenced and inspired for your design.
In the design of this Miami residence, you can see how I incorporated the owner's impressive collection of contemporary art to create a luxury living environment.
Art as an endpoint in the design process
Although art is often one of the last elements to be addressed in a design scheme, it is also one of the most important. Art adds that finishing touch that can pull a space together and make it feel finished and unique.
I use a variety of art expressions in my work, including paintings, sculptures and photography. I create a focal point in the room with one of these items, drawing people's eyes toward it and guiding them along a path of interest through the layout of the space.
But the benefits of having art in your home go beyond just aesthetics:
The benefits of art in your space
● Art is a great way to add personality and style to a space, and it allows you to express who you are.
● Art can add a focal point of interest to a room, leading the eye around the space, creating a sense of visual interest, scale, and weight.
● Art placement can add depth and richness to a room, making it feel more personal and grand.
● Art creates a space where people can feel comfortable, happy, and relaxed.
● Art provides a designer with a color palette to work from. I am inspired by colors I see within a work of art or that complement the piece. I choose the dominant color first, then a few additional shades for depth and dimension.
● Art brings people together and sparks a conversation that can lead to new ideas.
● Art enriches the quality of our lives and our living spaces by adding warmth, texture, and harmony.
● Art brings us new ideas, perspectives, and experiences. It opens our minds to the world and is a way for us to step back from the business of life.
For as long as humanity has existed, art has been used to express emotions, set ideals, and explore concepts. Even though each of us reacts differently to a piece of art, we must agree that it represents the feelings and emotions of its creator, helping us to connect with them on some level.
As research has shown, there is a link between creative thinking and happiness. This gives rise to the idea that arts can promote mental well-being. And what better reason is there than to add a well-chosen, beautiful piece of art to your home?
Conclusion
Art is an expression of beauty, balance, harmony, and order. A successful art placement is one that serves as a strong anchor for a room. So why not enhance your living space with a beautiful piece of art? Whether it’s a small piece for a bedside table or a large statement piece for your living room, art can make any space feel refined, luscious, and unique. You’ll be amazed at the transformation art can bring to your space – and to your life.
I hope these tips will inspire you to make art a more integral part of your space. If you are interested in learning more about decorating your home with creativity and comfort, I would be happy to speak with you. Please feel free to contact me.
Santiago Bernal is a designer whose work includes residences and hospitality interiors for clients throughout North and South America, the Caribbean Islands, Middle East and Europe. Santiago's design philosophy is to create beautiful spaces with cotemporary elegance that harmonize with their surroundings and tread lightly on the planet.