Art has a unique way of capturing memories and emotions, but sometimes pieces can feel a bit out of place or outdated in your current space. Instead of letting them collect dust or hide away in storage, why not breathe new life into them? Repurposing art is a fantastic way to refresh your home decor while adding a personal and creative touch to each room. Whether it’s an old painting, a framed photograph, or a sculpture, with a little imagination, you can transform these treasures into stunning focal points that perfectly complement your evolving style. Let’s explore some innovative ways to give your beloved art a second chance to shine.
In with the Old
We’ve all heard it said, “Out with the old, in with the new.” Well, when it comes to art I’m here to tell you to throw that saying out the door. Although I love to find new pieces for my clients, there’s something truly beautiful and authentic about using art that you already own. It could be a family heirloom that was passed down or simply an old piece that you’ve had tucked away in storage.
I’m here to encourage you to bring those pieces out of hiding and back to life! Long-held artwork tells a story. Plus, there are so many ways to breathe new life into them. Keep reading for my tips on how to refresh those pieces and incorporate them seamlessly into your space.
Reframe and Relocate
One of the easiest ways to transform a piece of art is to simply swap out the frame! Going for a collected feel? Try a gold vintage-inspired frame for added charm and character. Do you prefer more of a clean, modern look? A sleek black frame is the perfect solution for a fresh yet timeless aesthetic.
If you have a piece of art that is starting to feel stale in its current location, try moving it to a new spot! You can even create a little vignette or pair a few pieces together to really elevate the new look. This simple change will completely refresh your walls and allow you to see the art from a new perspective.
How to Hang Art (Like a Pro)
Believe it or not, the way you hang your artwork has a huge impact. The general rule of thumb for hanging a single piece of art is to hang it at eye level. This will be about 60 inches from the floor to the center of the piece. If you’re hanging the art above a console table, you’ll want to leave about four to six inches from the surface of the console to the bottom of the frame.
When hanging artwork in a seating area with a chair, side table, and lamp, it’s important to consider the overall composition and balance of the space. You want the artwork to complement and enhance the existing elements, rather than overwhelm or compete with them.
You can also opt for a gallery wall. In this case, you’ll want to measure 60 inches from the floor to the center of the gallery and leave a few inches of space between each frame. Aside from the placement and measurements, it’s important to be intentional with the pieces you select for your gallery. Pay attention to the sizes, styles, and mediums to create a balanced composition. I recommend laying your frames out on the floor to create your template beforehand. Creating this layout ahead of time allows you to see exactly how everything will look together, that way you can make adjustments before putting any holes in the wall. It might seem like an unnecessary step, but trust me, it will save you a lot of time and potential headache in the long run.
Another option is to not actually hang the art. You’re probably wondering what I mean by that. Well, one of my favorite ways to incorporate art is by simply leaning it against a wall, whether it’s on a console, a dresser, a built-in shelf, or even a kitchen countertop. You can create a really beautiful moment by layering a couple pieces together too!
Ready to Refresh Your Art?
Still not quite sure where to start? Book a discovery call today, and I’ll help guide you through the process of choosing the right art for your space and finding the perfect placement. I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how the simplest of changes can have the biggest impact. Let’s transform your space together!