A common design dilemma is “what should I place over the sofa?” A lot of clients are unsure about what would work especially if they have 9’+ ceilings – a large blank canvas. I hope these beautiful images will give you inspiration.
1) One large piece of art, either a print, painting or photograph. Original art doesn’t have to cost a fortune. This time of year, art schools and local artists showcase their work and you would be surprised to find how inexpensive art can be. For example, I wrote about the Toronto Artist Project, an annual event, here. You can also shop for unique, original fine art on Etsy.
Love the idea of framing vintage maps. Restoration Hardware has a Vintage Paris map and now a new Circa 1880 London map which I love especially since I was born in London. At 60” x 68” it is grand in scale but unimposing at the same time because of the subtlety of colour.
This art isn’t large in scale but it works because of the cabinetry flanking the sofa and the sconces which take up some of the negative space.
2) A mirror is always a great option and sometimes more affordable than original art.
3) A series of art – whether three, six, nine, twelve or fifteen:
I scanned the image below from Suzanne Kasler’s book – sorry that it’s only showing a part of the gorgeous room. These are vintage batik prints that she found at a flea market (who knew?) and had framed in bamboo.
4) A collection of art of varied sizes, framed or unframed but connected by subject matter or frame colour.
5) Something interesting like a folding screen or an incredible view:
(1 – Waterleaf Interiors via House of Turquoise; 2, 3 – Sara Story Design; 4, 10, 14 - Carrier and Company; 5, 6, 7, 16 - Massucco Warner Miller; 8, 9 – Christina Murphy; 11, 20, 21 – domino; 12 – Jessica Helgerson; 13 – Timothy Whealon Interiors; 15 – skona hem; 17 – Suzanne Kasler; 18 - Eileen Kathryn Boyd; ; 19 – Traditional Home; 22 - Paul Corrie Interiors; 23 - Garrow Kedigian Interior Design; 24 – Kelly Laplante Organic Interior Design) A few of the designers were new to me and part of Traditional Home’s 20 Young Designers to watch.
I really love these images! I still have a large expanse of wall above my sofa, and I have to admit I can't yet figure out which option I am most drawn to, I love them all!!
ReplyDeleteLovely images, Vanessa. In fact, the painting in the first image is one that I would want in my place on just about ANY wall!! I still haven't found what I want for over our sofa... I'm challenged by a piano window that sits directly over its centre. I'm thinking 2 prints on either side, one sitting above the other. Anyway... one day!
ReplyDeleteVictoria @ DesignTies
I like the idea of placing multiple frames or a large mirror..it depends on the canvas size and it would have to be horizontal :))) Great post!
ReplyDeleteJen Ramos
www.madebygirl.com
madebygirl.blogspot.com
I love this post - in the past, I chaired the contemporary art area of a large artists market, so spent a lot of time helping people think through decisions like this - what to put above the sofa. I love the look of a large, striking piece of contemporary art - or any art - but only if you absolutely love it. A large piece of art can really dominate the room. Because it is somewhat difficult to find that perfect large scale piece of art, I also love the idea of a framed series. I have framed antique egg etchings above my sofa, and even though I did this 6 years ago, I still love it. A framed series is easier to find, and easier to work with.
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