Do you have an emotional response to art? And enjoy surrounding yourself with your favorites? Many people do and most of us are not at Sotheby’s buying for millions. So what exists in most homes is a wide variety: prints, inexpensive pieces, a few pieces by artists you know, hobby pieces you created yourself. Even if you have fine art, updating or moving can cause a re-shuffling.

The fine art piece at the top of the steps was originally over the couple’s fireplace thirty years ago. In order to tie it in to surrounding areas, we created numerous smaller squares that were hung in a horizontal row at 10”. In the next home, we used them to surround another sculpture in a recess. Now they create a vertical row near the original artist’s painting, but lower and centered on the stair landing.

One of the new steps extends to create a space for the marble quail. (Thanks to a detail oriented contractor!) We had a small ottoman we could set it on along with a felt black scarf from the MET. The addition of three more squares adds life and interest to the space.

Moving? Updating? Start with art placement!

Woven chairs and baskets exude an inviting and comfortable vibe – inside or out!  These chairs are for outdoor but could really be used for either. Other companies, of course, make additional options. But wheter it’s a chair, basket or woven ottoman, the texture adds an inviting warmth.  Spring and summer are the best time to freshen up.

Celebrate your uniqueness!  Your personal accumulation of what is visible in your home tells your story – so is it boring or interesting?  It takes more time to personalize than pick up a piece of art or an accessory but it is also more interesting.  Do you have photos from trips?  These can be printed on canvas.  Or you can select other’s photos to have printed of your favorite locations.  Children can give a photo wall an updated look in larger canvas formats.  Choose 3, 5 or 7 larger format photos and use them alone or mingle with more traditionally framed family photos.  Choose the “best of” photo rather than every child, every year.  Old photos can also be formatted in this updated style. Tell your family history by selecting a few to mix in with newer photos.  See some ideas on my Pinterest board: Family Photos

White walls everywhere make a perfect backdrop for Valentines Day! The items shown add up to a party! The pillow fabric and napkins are from a variety stone, the tablecloth from Home Goods and heart dishes have been collected over the years. Happy Valentine’s Day!

Invite a special someone or a gathering of friends for the most simple dessert – s’mores! Just break the chocolate in pieces, add marshmallows, microwave for 1 minute and scoop out with graham crackers. Having fun is more important than hard labor!