We are pretty selective when it comes to featuring house tours that aren’t our own makeovers. It’s not because they aren’t all great, but more that we want you to get an important takeaway. We have a good one today:) Caitlin and I were just talking about the problem with “bitsy” wall decor. There always a place for small art when it’s done in a really intentional way, but often, art that’s too little (or bitsy) looks a bit haphazard or cluttered when multiple are hung together…and probably a reason why you my feel that your space does feel “done” or “elevated”. It’s all about scale, people! You need more large scale art. So when we were pitched this STUNNING home tour, which we actually linked up last September, we thought it very much deserved another look and deep dive. The scale of the wall art chosen REALLY shows the power of larger art and perfectly illustrates what Caitlin and I talked about. Also, the internet moves on so fast, and when a home is this special, we want to slow it down a little and appreciate it.
You might be thinking, “Ya, of course we want bigger art, but it’s really expensive!” And to that I understand, but I also know that with a little creativity, you could make or find pieces that are larger (or you could also put a small piece in a much larger frame…see a little creativity).
Now, let’s take a minute to enjoy this INCREDIBLE ceramic installation by the one and only Ben Medansky (remember when we shot his home?). The insane texture and modern aesthetic contrast in such a cool and beautiful way with the more “traditional” and “refined” design elements. Actually, the mix of the primitive bench with the modern stone pedestal table (we love pedestal tables:)), then the woven basket with the sculptural vase — perfect tension that gives off a sense of ease. But now imagine a gallery wall of a bunch of small pieces of art. Could it be pretty? Done well, of course. But likely it would look a little overwhelming. This one large piece lets your eye take a break.
Here you can see how the entry piece works with the living room piece, and boy, it’s awesome. That framed tapestry was probably not inexpensive, but I do think that with some DIY skills, someone could take inspiration from this and create a piece that’s in the same world. While it may take some time, search the internet, go to flea markets, and/or estate sales, and/or thrift stores, to find your own tapestry for a price you are willing to spend. Then you can either have it hang from something like a quilt hanger or even build your own frame. Here’s a post with other non-traditional framing options.
But what I really want to emphasize is the scale. It takes up almost the entire wall and looks insanely elevated. But you don’t have to choose a huge wall to do this. Remember the airplane photo from Emily’s best friend’s living room? The wall was much smaller, but the impact was similar.
I also don’t want you to think I am suggesting that you should only use HUGE pieces that fill up entire walls. Take this beautiful and colorful abstract over the fireplace. Wait, let me first gush over the style variation between the pieces in this home. They are unexpected together but work completely harmoniously. It’s a fun surprise around every corner! Ok, back to business. This piece isn’t huge, but the scale and boldness of color are perfect. If this painting were 25% smaller, it would look a little too bitsy. And if you want to know the art resource, they got this piece from Eneby Home🙂
Another masterpiece, and I’m not just talking about the art. That wine-drenched room made my heart stop when I first saw it. Plus, the textures and shapes could not be more inviting. I imagine you feel completely transported when you are in there. Now, that piece of art is actually a tapestry that homeowner and designer, Pierce Jordan, got from his grandmother, who bought it in Paris in the 70s. What a dream! Again, something like this could easily live in your home with some vintage hunting. The added bonus is that you don’t have to pay for a frame. All you need is a cool rod.
I do want to point out that this, more detailed/ornate, rod works so well because it complements the darker wall color (aka doesn’t stand out too much), and there are a lot of other detailed vintage pieces in the space. If you have a super modern “new” room, with not a ton of intricate detailing, I’d suggest choosing a more modern and streamlined rod. There are always exceptions, but that’s a good rule of thumb.
