Introducing Wall Hangings from Society6

Creating a stunning gallery wall is an effective way to personalize and enhance a living space, though the process can seem daunting due to various decisions regarding artwork selection, arrangement, and placement. Susan Tynan, founder and CEO of Framebridge, offers expert advice to simplify this home decor venture. She emphasizes that gallery walls should be seen as evolving collections rather than static displays, encouraging individuals to build them gradually and incorporate a variety of pieces, including sentimental items like framed scarves or antique plates, to tell a unique story. The founder suggests thinking of the gallery wall as a narrative of personal experiences and memories, referencing an example where a two-story gallery wall was created for Cary Sherman, CEO of the Recording Industry Association, filled with framed photos, records, and magazine features chronicling his career. A common mistake Tynan highlights is hanging art too high. She advises treating the gallery as a single large piece of art. If placed above furniture, the bottom of the lowest piece should be eight to ten inches above the furniture's top. For empty walls, the center of the arrangement should ideally be about 57 inches from the floor. Establishing a color palette is crucial for a cohesive look. If starting from scratch, a unifying element such as a specific color scheme or art medium can be chosen. For existing collections, consistency can be achieved through framing choices, opting for similar colors and tones in frames, such as a mix of white and silver or natural wood, even if textures and widths vary. Tynan notes that silver and gold, or silver and rose gold, can be mixed effectively, but gold and rose gold should be avoided together. To simplify the layout process, Tynan suggests using Framebridge’s gallery wall kits, which include life-sized hanging guides. Alternatively, a DIY method involves cutting newspaper shapes matching frame sizes and arranging them on the wall to visualize the final display. For an organic look, which allows for easier expansion, laying out pieces on the floor beforehand is recommended. It's important to maintain a consistent spacing of two inches between each piece to ensure the arrangement appears intentional and cohesive, regardless of its size or future additions. This approach helps demystify the creation of gallery walls, making it an enjoyable and less stressful home decoration project. #GalleryWall #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #ArtArrangement #FramingTips #PersonalizedSpace #SusanTynan #Framebridge

Arranging art effectively can enhance a room's aesthetic, but it requires careful consideration of placement, scale, and balance. For kitchens, it's advisable to place artwork in areas safe from water and heat, such as above a command center or dining table, while avoiding cooking-themed art. Modern kitchens can benefit from bright colors in stainless-steel frames, whereas traditional settings might suit vintage art with traditional frames. When selecting art, ensure its colors complement the existing decor, introducing accent colors that fit the overall scheme. In living rooms, artwork should be hung lower than typical eye level, specifically one hand width above the sofa, to account for people being seated. A common error is incorrect scaling; art above a sofa or sideboard should be at least two-thirds the width of the furniture to maintain visual harmony. For instance, a 9-foot sofa requires roughly 6 feet of art. Creating visual balance is crucial when grouping multiple pieces. Heavier items should be placed at the bottom and to the left, as the eye naturally starts there. If the arrangement is even, the heaviest piece should be centered. Smaller pieces of art are best suited for narrow spaces between windows and doors, while larger works need ample wall space to be appreciated from a distance. To simplify the hanging process and prevent wall damage, trace each art piece onto kraft paper, label it, and use painter's tape to test layouts before making holes. In bedrooms, personal art like family photographs is ideal. When grouping photos, maintain a consistent color theme—either all black-and-white or all color—and use uniform frames in terms of color, style, or finish. Gallery walls can be made more interesting by incorporating diverse elements beyond framed art, such as vases or plates. Begin by defining the display's dimensions, centering the most prominent piece at eye level, and then expanding outwards. If using varied frames, allow sufficient space between each piece. Layering artwork, particularly above a mantel or fireplace, can add depth and dimension to a display, making a house feel more like a home. Artwork doesn't always need to be hung; propping pieces on shelves or furniture offers flexibility to change arrangements without marking walls. When forming a grouping, using an odd number of items helps achieve a balanced and complete look, as it provides a natural middle point and mirrored sides. For a cohesive and simple focal point, symmetrical arrangements with uniform frames and mats are effective. When hanging multiple pieces across a room with architectural breaks like doorways or windows, focus on leveling the middle of each frame rather than the tops or bottoms. Finally, art should integrate with other decor elements like moldings and shelves to tell a visual story. Hanging art in front of a bookcase, for example, can make the shelves part of the overall decorating scheme. The style of art and arrangement should also align with the room's overall decorating style; symmetrical layouts suit traditional or formal spaces, while asymmetrical arrangements and abstract pieces fit modern designs. Vintage images or botanicals are often preferred for cottage-style rooms. #ArtArrangement #WallDecor #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #GalleryWall #HangingArt #DecoratingTips #VisualBalance #HomeStyling

Wainscoting, a versatile design element, offers character across various price points. Historically, it served to protect walls and provide insulation, originating in the 18th century. Over time, wainscoting has evolved, maintaining its popularity due to its timeless aesthetic and adaptability. It can be installed to cover a quarter, half, or even an entire wall, depending on the desired visual impact. Typically, it consists of large panels that can be painted or stained and are available in diverse materials and textures. This design feature is often complemented with a chair rail above and a baseboard or shoe molding below, contributing to a refined and cohesive appearance. Interior designer Debra Bevard, owner of 1749 Designs, highlights wainscoting's ability to introduce depth, texture, and interest into any space. She emphasizes that it acts as an upgrade that enhances a home's character and imparts a sense of refinement. Bevard notes the availability of various styles, from classic raised panels to sleek beadboard, all of which contribute to making a space feel more polished and inviting. Brett Clark and Ellen Lancia, co-founders of Design Collective STL, concur, stressing that wainscoting effectively balances form and function. They state that good design extends beyond aesthetics, aiming to create spaces that are effortless, functional, and deeply connected to their inhabitants. Clark and Lancia observe that wainscoting has adapted to suit a wide array of interior styles, making walls feel more intentional and elevating even minimalist rooms. They conclude that whether traditional or contemporary, wainscoting adds a level of craftsmanship that improves a home's overall charm and sophistication. While wainscoting can technically be installed in any room, certain areas are more common applications. Clark and Lancia point out that it is frequently found in entryways and dining rooms, where it adds architectural interest and sophistication. They also suggest it as a suitable choice for hallways, staircases, and bathrooms, given its durability and visual appeal. Bevard underscores that authentic wainscoting provides a classic, high-end look without compromising structural integrity. Clark and Lancia also mention the existence of faux wainscoting options, which are often created using trim pieces. These alternatives present a budget-friendly solution while still delivering a stylish finish. The traditional application of wainscoting typically involves white or off-white painted paneling on the lower sections of walls, often paired with simple paint or wallpaper on the upper sections. Clark and Lancia explain that traditional wainscoting on the lower half creates a grounded and classic appearance, while full-wall wainscoting adds a more dramatic effect. Another approach involves positioning a chair rail higher on the wall, allowing it to double as a picture ledge, with wainscoting covering the lower two-thirds. Bevard advises that the choice of wainscoting style should align with the home's overall design. For instance, beadboard suits a cottage style, whereas full-wall wainscoting with crown molding enhances traditional or historical homes. Modern design interpretations may incorporate unexpected wainscoting colors that match the crown molding and ceiling, leaving the upper wall available for wallpaper. There is no singular correct method for installing wainscoting; its inherent simplicity allows for significant impact and personalization. Whether one opts for a monochromatic scheme, painting walls, wainscoting, and ceilings in a rich hue for a contemporary statement, or installs tall wainscoting in a formal dining room for a refined touch, this design element remains a timeless feature that can be tailored to individual preferences. #Wainscoting #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ArchitecturalElements #DesignTrends #TraditionalDesign #ModernDesign #HomeImprovement

This article, part of New York Magazine’s 'Best of New York' series, identifies and details the top art hanging services available in New York City. The recommendations are based on insights from over 50 art world professionals, including artists, art advisers, interior designers, and gallerists, who shared their experiences with local businesses known for their creativity, vigilance, precision, and fair pricing. The goal is to provide a comprehensive guide to installers who excel in diverse art installation scenarios, catering to both major galleries and private collectors, and who can handle challenging conditions such as extremely high ceilings or narrow doorways. Six distinct art hanging services are highlighted for their specialized expertise. ILevel, founded by David Kassel, is recognized for immaculate gallery walls. With over 30 years of experience, Kassel, an art school graduate and former Guggenheim installer, now leads a team that focuses exclusively on art arrangement and installation, handling approximately 56,000 items annually. High-end interior designers like Alexandra Pappas and Alan Tanksley praise ILevel for their precise work and ability to create balanced layouts for diverse collections, emphasizing their efficiency and personable approach. They are noted for their ability to execute complex salon-style hangs quickly, even under tight deadlines. For smaller projects and those on a budget, Handy Andy, run by Andrew Bias-Drakeford, comes highly recommended. Bias-Drakeford, a self-taught handyman, has gained a following on Instagram for his time-lapse Reels showcasing his methodical installation skills. Interior designer Tobi Wright and photographer Katherine Slingluff commend his patience, efficiency, and ability to navigate challenging installations, such as hanging unevenly sized prints alongside a steep stairwell. His mindful approach to the client's space is also a key differentiator. Fisk Fine Art Services, led by a husband-and-wife team, specializes in transporting, shipping, and installing art, particularly for oversize wall hangings. Serving prominent galleries like Pace and Matthew Marks, as well as private collectors, the company is known for handling logistical challenges. Curator and art adviser Lolita Cros recounts their impressive handling of a large Alex Prager photograph that required navigating five flights of stairs, while Nina Blumberg of Artstagram praises their professional and enjoyable management of an artwork installed via crane through a high-rise window. SAT: Safe Art Storage and Transport, established in 1993 by Werner Lederer, is presented as a full-service art installation company adept at complicated and tedious tasks. Offering shipping, crating, and storage, SAT has worked with renowned artists like Roy Lichtenstein and Julian Schnabel. Art adviser Yvonne Force Villareal highlights Lederer’s meticulous approach to challenging domestic installations, such as precisely hanging a Matisse Jazz cutout series with mismatched wire lengths and expertly arranging a 20-piece Samson Kambalu flag series in a grid on a very tall wall. The longevity of their employees fosters strong client relationships. David Kennedy Cutler, whose team comprises exhibiting artists, is celebrated for handling tight spaces and highly complex installations with a relaxed demeanor. Art adviser Ivy Shapiro recalls an instance where Kennedy Cutler’s team partially removed a large painting from its stretcher to navigate narrow corridors in a prewar home, even with undried oil paint, then skillfully reassembled it. Their practice of pre-measuring and creating mock-ups for large projects minimizes errors. Finally, Dietl International is recommended for long-distance installations, offering comprehensive fine-art import, export, handling, and installation services with offices in multiple cities. Founded by Fritz Dietl, the company is praised by art adviser Emily McElwreath for its commitment to sustainable practices and the talent of its employees, specifically mentioning freelancer Kevin Kennedy for his conservation work and artistic eye. McElwreath highlights their expertise in installing massive artworks under high-pressure circumstances, such as during Art Basel in Miami. #ArtHangers #NewYorkCity #ArtInstallation #InteriorDesign #GalleryWalls #FineArtServices #HomeDecoration #NewYorkMagazine