How Do I Choose Art for My Home or Cottage?

For designers, art is how we build personality, character and depth into a space. We love bringing new pieces and installations to our clients for consideration. Every new discovery is not only an artist being found and their story being told, but it’s also knowing we landed on that perfect piece to layer into a room and expand on the design potential. Art in a space allows for a narrative to unfold, it’s no longer just about a room that performs a function, it adds emotion and cohesion to the overall layout.

In this project, two art pieces work cohesively for an eclectic and personalized style.

Choosing art can be overwhelming and especially hanging art! Let’s run through some helpful information to inspire you when it comes to collecting pieces for your own home or cottage.

Our Sturgeon Lake project uses art to reflect the outdoors bringing a sense of landscape to this family cottage space.

Art As Anchor

When you have a one-off space like a reading nook or bookcase area, you can use art to anchor the look. Reading nooks are a great example where you may have a floor lamp, a chair and ottoman and using art can really give that area a clearly defined role.  Using art within a book case is an example of creating a cultural connection within a room and provides a literal interpretation of what that space is used for. Once a room is anchored it feels finished.

Left: Sculptural art within this bookcase elevates the look and works alongside other collected items. Middle: Art flanking the stove anchors the end tables and adds symmetry to a tall, vertical wall. Right: A pop of colour anchors the dining room wall and provides a focal point when looking from the kitchen towards the rest of the cottage.

Leaning art along with other accessories in this guest room adds colour and interest in our Clear Lake project.

Art As Accessory

Throw pillows, decorative vases, books and art, provide ways to layer a space and to further build on the design story. Creating ambiance in a room using art, is a way for you to add conversation and intrigue. Small pieces purchased on travel excursions are a great way to accessorize with art. Sculptural bowls and pieces on art stands or tables are another consideration for how you may express your art style. 

Art As Focal Point

Look for specific spaces where art can take centre stage. Above fireplaces, long vertical stairwells, entryways or above a sofa are examples of where art can act as the focal point to add definition to a space. Entryways and stairwells are great examples because without art, the potential for these spaces can be lost. Being able to enter a home or cottage and be met with a fabulous piece of art, instantly connects the visitor to that home or family story.

Left: This office space in our Clear Lake walk-out uses art to anchor a large blank wall. The art also takes centre stage with its bold colour scheme. Right: Using art as contrast works in this cottage entry providing a contemporary feel.

Art As Expression

Don’t be afraid to add art that is full of colour to punch up a space! Finding art that is thought provoking or unique can add a surprise factor to a room. The unexpected detail that art can bring can be an instant story teller. Through art you can communicate your personality and convey your sense of fun and imagination.

Left: Art can take form in many variations from neon signage to collectibles. Right: Collectibles as art displayed along with a book collection adds warmth and character in this cottage project.

Art is an emotional unifier, and when it’s done in a way to connect with other design elements, a space can be truly elevated and transformed.

Left: Colourful art with a gold frame ties into kitchen hardware. Right: Art at Colborne Gallery extends to cards, sculpture, fibre, textiles metal and wood.

If you have questions about art, pop into the Colborne Street Gallery, and we can walk you through some ideas. We can also introduce you to many interesting local artists that may be a fit for your Kawartha home or cottage. If you have a design question you would like to submit for the next Town Crier issue, you can send it to the Home by Tim + Chris design team at: info@homebytc.ca 

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Tim + Chris