From Coldplay’s Parachutes to a fascinating wall shelf

Beauparlant, a Toronto-based design studio, has introduced the Wireframe Shelf, a wall-mounted shelving system that originated from a custom kitchen project in a private residence. This shelving unit is designed to offer practical storage solutions while simultaneously introducing strong horizontal lines into a given space. The design intentionally features a minimal framework, which serves to decrease the visual heaviness often associated with conventional shelving, resulting in a cleaner and more streamlined appearance. Functionality and aesthetic flexibility are key characteristics of the Wireframe Shelf. The units are designed for versatile installation, allowing them to be hung either individually or in series to create a continuous run of shelving. This adaptability makes them suitable for a range of environments, from residential homes to commercial establishments. The frames of the shelves are customizable and can be finished in various colors, providing options to match diverse interior design palettes. Complementing the frames are the laminate oak shelves, which are treated with an oil finish, contributing to both their durability and visual appeal. A notable enhancement in the latest version of the Wireframe Shelf is the integration of non-directional lighting. This feature adds an extra layer of utility, illuminating the stored items or the surrounding area without creating harsh shadows or glare. The inclusion of lighting elevates the shelves from mere storage units to functional design elements that can also contribute to a room's ambiance. The aesthetic of the Wireframe Shelf is characterized by its simplicity and modern appeal. The open structure and clean lines align with contemporary design principles, promoting an uncluttered look. By minimizing the visible support structure, the design emphasizes the items displayed on the shelves, making them appear almost suspended. This approach not only provides a functional display area but also acts as an architectural detail within the space. Overall, the Wireframe Shelf represents a thoughtful blend of utility and minimalist design. Its wall-mounted nature saves floor space, an important consideration for many modern living and working environments. The customizable finishes, durable materials, and integrated lighting system make it a versatile and attractive option for those seeking both practical storage and a sophisticated design element to enhance their interiors. The design’s origin in a bespoke project underscores its commitment to tailored solutions and high-quality craftsmanship, now made available for a broader audience. #WallMountedShelves #Beauparlant #WireframeShelf #MinimalistDesign #HomeFurnishings #InteriorDesign #StorageSolutions #CustomizableFurniture #ModernShelving

Garrett Kemp, owner of The Market at Circa 1857 in Mid City, utilizes a gallery wall in his Spanish Town home's entryway to display a diverse collection of art and mementos. Kemp's passion for art is evident, stemming from a lifelong involvement in creating and collecting pieces. The gallery wall originated from a need to manage his growing collection, as he was running out of space to display individual artworks. Rather than dispersing items throughout his home, he consolidated them into a single, cohesive display. Kemp dedicated several days to meticulously planning the arrangement of approximately 15 items on his gallery wall. He describes his collection as an "eclectic hodgepodge," representing his varied interests, personal style, and travel experiences. Initially, he frequently adjusted the layout, swapping pieces in and out until he achieved the desired aesthetic. While gallery walls are commonly found in living rooms and entryways, Kemp notes their versatility, even observing them in unconventional spaces like restaurant bathrooms. The dynamic nature of his gallery wall means Kemp regularly updates it by incorporating new acquisitions or simply rearranging existing items for a fresh look. He advocates for a slightly "busy" wall over bare walls, which he finds sterile and uncomfortable. For Kemp, his gallery wall serves as a visual narrative, with each item evoking memories of past experiences, such as specific trips or personal artistic endeavors. This personalized display also provides a rich source of conversation when guests visit, allowing him to share the stories behind his cherished possessions. Kemp offers practical advice for creating a gallery wall. He suggests starting in a corner rather than the center, approaching the process like assembling a puzzle. Identifying a signature piece to serve as a focal point is crucial, with other items arranged around it. He emphasizes maintaining tight spacing, recommending no more than 5 inches between items to maximize wall coverage. Embracing asymmetry is encouraged, especially when dealing with items of varying shapes and sizes, allowing for a more playful and personal arrangement. Ultimately, Kemp advises individuals to curate their gallery walls with pieces that bring them joy and comfort, transforming the space into a unique reflection of their personality and life experiences. The article is part of the 225 Extra: 2018 Spaces & Places issue. #GalleryWall #HomeDecor #ArtCollection #InteriorDesign #PersonalStyle #WallDecor #EclecticDesign #MemoryDisplay

This article explores ten creative solutions for designing a music room within a home, aiming to foster musical creativity and inspiration. The guidance provided covers various approaches, from dedicated music spaces to integrating musical elements into existing rooms, addressing both functionality and aesthetic appeal. One approach suggests combining a music room with a library. This dual-purpose space leverages bespoke timber shelves for both storage of books and favorite objects, which also serve a practical acoustic function by absorbing sound. Double doors connecting to adjacent living areas, such as the kitchen and dining room, offer flexibility, allowing music to be shared or contained for focused practice or reading. The design emphasizes creating an environment that supports both intellectual and musical pursuits. Another idea proposes placing a piano in the dining room, particularly for individuals who enjoy entertaining. This integration allows for musical performances to become a delightful addition to social gatherings, transforming the dining area into a space for both meals and impromptu recitals. This method highlights making music an integral part of the home's social fabric rather than confining it to a separate, isolated room. The article also addresses the utilization of awkward or underused spaces, such as walk-through areas, transforming them into functional music rooms. These often challenging transitional spaces can be reimagined to house musical instruments and equipment, demonstrating how creative spatial planning can optimize the home's layout. For those with limited space, a guest room can initially serve as a music area, especially for beginners. Guitars can be displayed as decorative elements, adding character to the room while being easily accessible. Enhancing the walls of a music room is another key suggestion. This can involve using client album covers and music posters as gallery art, treating the collection as a large art installation. This method allows for personalization and visual stimulation, with the room's decor complementing the musical theme. Custom cabinetry is presented as an ideal solution for accommodating larger instruments like pianos. Integrated shelving units not only provide storage for music sheets and books but also help the instrument feel like a natural part of the room. The addition of a mirror above the piano can further enhance the space by bouncing light and providing a connection to the rest of the room. For homes without dedicated music rooms, integrating musical elements into a living room or creating a music listening space is recommended. This involves incorporating instruments like pianos and record players into existing living areas, recognizing the value of multi-faceted spaces. A designated music listening area, perhaps with a bespoke drinks cabinet and comfortable seating, can be designed to fill residents with joy and offer a retreat for hobbies. The incorporation of home technology, such as ceiling speakers and audio-visual equipment, can enhance the listening experience while being discreetly integrated into the design. Utilizing every available space, even creating a music corner, is highlighted as a practical solution when a full music room is not feasible. A dedicated corner, equipped with comfortable seating like corner sectionals, maximizes space and provides an inviting area for musical enjoyment. The article emphasizes the importance of texture and warm colors in these cozy corners to create an inviting and comfortable ambiance, demonstrating how interior design elements can influence the mood and functionality of a musical space. #MusicRoom #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #CreativeSpace #AcousticDesign #SpaceUtilization #CustomCabinetry #WallDecor #CozyCorner

The concept of a 'gallery wall' traditionally evokes images of framed family photos, but this article expands that notion to encompass a diverse array of objects and styles, transforming walls into dynamic displays of personal expression and decorative flair. The article showcases various innovative approaches to wall decoration, moving beyond conventional framed art. One featured idea involves industrial-style oversized clocks, demonstrating how functional items can be repurposed as impactful decorative elements. This approach is exemplified by a display at N. Reding and Sons Vintage Industrial Uniques, where multiple large clocks create a timely and visually striking statement. Another technique highlighted is the use of mirrors. A Birmingham home, designed by Corey Damen Jenkins, incorporates a collection of antique and vintage-inspired mirrors, which collectively create a 'serious pop' on the wall, adding depth and reflecting light to enhance the room's aesthetic. Beyond traditional décor, the article explores more unconventional options like wall planters. Glazed ceramic wallscape pots, available in various sizes, can be arranged to form a 'garden gallery wall,' effectively bringing nature indoors and turning plants into living art pieces. This method offers a refreshing alternative to static wall art and introduces organic textures and colors into the living space. A particularly creative example is presented from Art Van's new store in Canton, where hundreds of white melamine plates are arranged to form a large-scale collage. Leah Zanetti, Art Van's director of graphics, explains the challenge of finding lightweight dinnerware suitable for vertical mounting. The installation process, carried out by Detroit's Prop Art Studio, involved drilling tiny pins into the back of each plate and cup, which were then mounted to the wall with silicone. This intricate display creates a unique focal point in the dining area, demonstrating how everyday objects can be elevated into significant artistic installations. The article also includes examples from Ashley Furniture, which utilizes a mix of oversized art and various wall décor items to craft a 'cool collage,' suggesting that varied scales and textures can contribute to an engaging display. For those who prefer a more classic approach, a dining room wall featuring a collage of family photos is also shown, acknowledging the enduring appeal of personal photographic displays. Tips for creating an effective gallery wall are also provided, including advice from interior stylist Kirsten Grove of 'Simply Styling.' She recommends maintaining a spacing of 4 to 5 inches between standard-sized frames to ensure a cohesive and balanced arrangement. The article further diversifies its suggestions by presenting a gallery wall made from scarves, offering a soft, textile-based alternative to framed items, and a display of vintage artwork, which can add character and a sense of history to a space. Lastly, the article notes the availability of a wide range of oversized clocks at retailers like Pier 1 Imports, emphasizing the accessibility of diverse decorative elements for creating impactful wall displays. Overall, the article aims to inspire readers to think creatively about wall decoration, encouraging them to use a variety of objects to personalize and enhance their living environments. #InteriorDesign #WallDecor #GalleryWall #HomeStyling #CreativeDecor #HomeAccessories #ArtisticDisplay #DIYHomeDecor

Shelf styling has evolved significantly, moving beyond simply organizing items to curating thoughtful displays that reflect personal taste and add character to a home. Designers are embracing new approaches to create engaging and charming 'shelfies.' The trend of wall-to-wall shelving is gaining prominence, replacing the floating shelf aesthetic. This shift maximizes wall space, turning entire lengths of walls or alcoves into opportunities for display, from kitchen backsplashes to living room features. This method ensures that every inch of available space is utilized for decorative purposes, contributing to a more expansive and integrated look. Another key trend emphasizes the incorporation of one-off, unique pieces rather than mass-produced, matching items. The goal is to avoid generic compositions and instead create layered, collected, and meaningful displays. Designers like Ming Thompson advocate for mixing new and old objects, stressing that unique items like decorative plates, whether modern or with a farmhouse feel, can add significant personality. Molly Torres Portnof further supports this by suggesting a mix of books, vinyl records, and artwork to create visual interest and a sense of history within the display. The strategic combination of various visual elements in terms of height, shape, and texture remains crucial for effective shelf styling. The aim is to move away from an overly curated appearance while still maintaining careful placement. Joanne Swisterski highlights the importance of compositional balance, comparing it to painting: placing small items next to large ones, shiny next to matte, and dark next to light. This technique, combined with thoughtful use of space—avoiding both overcrowding and excessive sparseness—helps create dynamic and visually appealing displays. Shea McGee reinforces this by advising on groupings, varied shapes, and using books or risers to adjust heights, ensuring balance across the display. Wall niches are emerging as an innovative alternative to traditional shelving, introducing organic curves and rounded shapes that align with current interior design trends like 'minimaluxe' and Mediterranean aesthetics. These integrated cubbyholes offer individual spaces for stand-alone vignettes, suitable for displaying vases, books, small sculptures, or candle tapers. While they require some structural modification, careful planning can create uplifting and bright display areas. Spotlighting within these niches can further enhance the decorative items. Finally, the use of color in shelf styling is undergoing a transformation. While minimalist color schemes with neutrals and whites were once standard, there is a growing trend towards bolder, brighter palettes. As shelves become more personal expressions, homeowners are experimenting with more vibrant decor and color. The advice is to select a color scheme that complements the wider room, using a painting leaned against the back of the shelf as a starting point to draw out colors for other decorative objects. Painting the back of the shelf a vivid color, as demonstrated by Beata Heuman, can also significantly enhance the visual impact and make the display pop, offering a clever way to introduce color even with less colorful decor items. #ShelfStyling #HomeDecorTrends #InteriorDesign #WallShelving #DecorativeObjects #HomePersonalization #VisualComposition #WallNiches #ColorSchemes

Successfully hanging an art collection requires meticulous planning and careful consideration, encompassing everything from selecting appropriate fixtures and frames to creating a cohesive visual narrative among grouped artworks. Experts in art installation, interior design, and gallery direction offer comprehensive advice on optimizing the display of art in domestic settings. The initial step involves a thorough assessment of the chosen space, considering the artwork's size, potential physical obstacles, and the overall visual flow of the room. Guy Morey, operations director at Momart, an art installation service, emphasizes the importance of measuring both the walls and the narrowest points of entry into the building to avoid issues with oversized pieces or artworks that might be too imposing for a home environment. Planning the arrangement beforehand is crucial; collectors can collaborate with installers to experiment with different placements by leaning artworks against walls to determine the most aesthetically pleasing configuration. Some installers leverage 3D modeling software for precise planning. General guidelines exist for hanging height, with a consistent center-line often recommended across all artworks in a room. This center-line is typically set at eye-level or 120 centimeters from the ceiling to the artwork's center, though it may vary depending on the piece's size. Smaller works can be grouped around a shared center-line, while larger pieces might require individual placement. Lighting is another critical factor, influencing both the aesthetic appeal and preservation of an artwork. Interior designer Verity Woolf, director of Woolf Interiors, advises considering natural light exposure to prevent damage and suggests incorporating artificial lighting solutions, such as concealed ceiling lights that can be adjusted to suit different artwork sizes. Frame selection also plays a significant role in an artwork's presentation and narrative. Woolf highlights framing as an art form in itself, noting that an unsuitable frame can diminish a piece's impact, while a well-chosen one can enhance its meaning. Technical details, such as fixings, are equally important. John Paul Black, managing director of Art Works Exhibition Services, recommends implementing a versatile hanging system, such as aluminum rails hidden in cornices with wires, to facilitate easy rearrangement and temporary storage of artworks, especially to protect them from sunlight at certain times of the year. Unlike gallery settings, private homes present unique challenges with limited space and numerous obstacles like furniture, radiators, and fireplaces. These elements can affect the optimal placement and center-line of an artwork. Ben Cotton, director of Hang-Up Gallery, stresses the importance of harmonizing artworks with existing furniture. He advises against rigidly adhering to gallery-style hanging heights in a home, encouraging collectors to adapt to their space to maintain balance. Furthermore, creating a visual connection between artworks within a collection is essential for a cohesive display. This can be achieved through shared color palettes, themes, genres, or even by featuring the same artist, ultimately forming a compelling narrative for the viewer. #ArtCollection #ArtInstallation #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ArtDisplay #FramingArt #LightingArt #ArtPlacement #ArtHangingSystems

The article offers a home tour of the Kitsilano residence belonging to Danielle and Wade Papin, the founders of the internationally recognized jewelry brand Pyrrha. Having established Pyrrha three decades ago, a brand celebrated for its talisman-design pendants and a celebrity following that includes Ryan Gosling and Lady Gaga, the couple maintains strong roots in Vancouver, where their custom studio-showroom is located in a repurposed heritage house in Mount Pleasant. They have resided in their circa-1940s Kitsilano home since 2005, having previously rented in the same neighborhood. This enduring connection to their home reflects their consistent aesthetic, which blends old and new elements. Their interior design approach mirrors the philosophy behind Pyrrha's jewelry, characterized by a juxtaposition of vintage and contemporary elements. For instance, the kitchen features modern walnut flooring, while the living room retains its original floorboards. Sleek marble countertops are harmoniously integrated with vintage radiators, which the couple chose to keep despite a contractor's recommendation to replace them. A sophisticated sound system is a central feature, used for playing a collection of 1970s post-punk records, indicating their appreciation for music. The home showcases a mix of high-design pieces, such as Bocci lights and Herman Miller chairs, alongside numerous items acquired from estate sales, vintage shops, and garage sales, emphasizing their preference for unique finds over curated collections. Music is a significant aspect of their lives, as evidenced by a substantial record collection housed in the dining area, encompassing rock classics, jazz, and New Wave genres. The article highlights specific art pieces and decor: a bird sculpture by Vancouver artist George Vergette, one of three in their possession, and a piece by Winnipeg artist Marcel Dzama, known for his distinctive and often unsettling caricatures, which hangs above a radiator. The living room includes a sofa, found at an SPCA thrift store, which was reupholstered in black vinyl, a testament to their resourcefulness and design choices. The home also features a framed contact sheet from David Bowie’s 'Heroes' album shoot, signed by the photographer, displayed above their home bar. This bar is a dedicated space for mixology, stocked with their preferred spirits and glassware, and designed with a fold-out countertop for serving. The couple enjoys crafting classic cocktails like paper planes and negronis, deliberately opting out of the non-alcoholic trend. Wade Papin’s audiophile setup, a PrimaLuna Dialogue system with glowing tubes, reflects his pursuit of analog sound, though the accompanying amplifiers frequently require repair, humorously compared to owning a Jaguar. In the hearth area, a television is framed by a vintage fireplace mantel, which is merely a facade without a chimney. This space serves as a family entertainment hub where they watch movies with their daughter, Hazel, exemplifying a relaxed and personal atmosphere. The overall impression of the Papins' home is one of thoughtful eclecticism, deeply personal selections, and a comfortable blend of cherished items with modern living, reflecting their distinct artistic and lifestyle sensibilities. #HomeDecor #KitsilanoHome #PyrrhaFounders #InteriorDesign #VintageDecor #ArtCollection #MusicLovers #EclecticStyle

This article highlights the versatility of the Disney Princess X POPSUGAR Moana Wall Shelf, a $30 hanging wooden shelf designed to be both decorative and functional. The shelf, part of the Disney Princess x POPSUGAR collection at Target, features a boho aesthetic with a wood ring for hanging and macrame tassels. It is presented as an ideal solution for organizing cluttered spaces, hiding cords, and displaying various items. The article offers five distinct styling ideas for different rooms within a home, showcasing the shelf's adaptability. For the entryway, the shelf can serve as an organized drop-off point for daily essentials. It is suggested to use a decorative tray to hold items such as sunglasses, keys, lip balm, hand sanitizer, and masks, ensuring these necessities are easily accessible for a quick exit. This setup helps maintain a tidy and functional entryway, preventing clutter from accumulating on flat surfaces. In the kitchen, the hanging wall shelf offers an alternative to traditional spice racks, maximizing counter space. The article suggests positioning it within arm's reach of the cooking area to efficiently store spices and other small kitchen items. A small bowl for salt or frequently used ingredients can be added for convenience during meal preparation, transforming the shelf into a practical culinary accessory. For the bedroom, the shelf can function as a space-saving nightstand, especially in smaller rooms where traditional bedside tables might not fit. It is recommended to use the shelf to hold a journal and an agenda on one side, balancing the arrangement with a scented candle to create a peaceful atmosphere. A trinket dish can also be included to store jewelry and hair accessories, keeping them organized at the end of the day. In the bathroom, the shelf can be utilized to create a compact vanity space. A small dish for jewelry and accessories, along with a stylish bowl for makeup brushes, can be placed on the shelf. The addition of a decorative crystal is suggested to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the setup, providing a functional yet elegant spot for morning routines. The article also suggests incorporating Moana Planters for additional decor. Another styling option for the kitchen emphasizes an earthy, boho aesthetic. This setup involves using specific vessels to enhance functionality and appearance. A rattan-wrapped glass can hold utensils, a wood canister can store dry goods, and mini wood prep bowls can contain easy-to-grab spices. This approach combines practicality with a cohesive design theme, making the shelf a central element in the kitchen's decor. #HomeDecor #WallShelf #InteriorDesign #BohoDecor #HomeOrganization #KitchenDecor #BedroomDecor #BathroomDecor #EntrywayDecor

Kvadrat, a Danish textile company, produces Soft Cells, a modular acoustic panel system designed to enhance the acoustic performance of various buildings. Zane Walker, head of project management at Kvadrat Soft Cells, explains that these panels are custom-made by hand in their factory located in Poznań, Poland. The panels are versatile and can be utilized in diverse settings, ranging from individual offices to large concert halls or auditoriums that require numerous panels to function cohesively. Each Soft Cell panel is manufactured to order, involving a meticulous process of cutting, assembling, and upholstering by hand. This handcrafted approach ensures a high level of precision, which is crucial for projects with stringent tolerance requirements. The Soft Cells are available in sizes from 20 centimeters to six meters in length and can be produced in various shapes to accommodate specific design needs. The construction of each panel involves a recycled aluminum frame filled with acoustic foam. This core structure is then covered with a selection of Kvadrat's textiles. A distinctive feature of the Soft Cells is the tensioning system, which incorporates spring coils. This system is engineered to maintain the fabric's tautness over the entire lifespan of the panels, ensuring consistent aesthetic and acoustic performance. Modern architectural trends often favor clean, open spaces characterized by hard, reflective materials such as concrete and glass. While aesthetically pleasing, these materials can lead to poor acoustics, resulting in uncomfortable or inefficient environments. Kvadrat's Soft Cells offer a solution by allowing architects to maintain the minimalist design of these spaces while significantly improving their acoustic properties. By integrating these panels, spaces become more comfortable for occupants, whether they are working or living within them. Walker emphasizes that the acoustic performance of a space directly influences the comfort and satisfaction of its users. The Soft Cells provide a way to introduce "softness" into these otherwise rigid, minimalist designs, thereby enhancing both the visual and auditory experience. The production process, detailed in a film by Dezeen, highlights the craftsmanship and attention to detail involved in creating each panel, underscoring the product's quality and its role in harmonizing contemporary architecture with optimal acoustic conditions. #Kvadrat #AcousticPanels #InteriorDesign #TextileInnovation #ArchitecturalSolutions #HandmadeProducts #SustainableMaterials #NoiseReduction #ModernInteriors

Pilar Zeta, an Argentinian-born, Portland-based artist, creates a distinct visual language she describes as a 'parallel universe,' influenced by Egypt, magic, and metaphysics. Her work spans various mediums, including album artwork for bands like Coldplay, live visuals for Katy Perry, and a past clothing brand named Holographic Universe. Zeta's aesthetic extends to her personal living space, which she shares with prolific producer Jimmy Edgar. Their home is characterized by colorful postmodern furniture, each piece meticulously placed, mirroring the objects in her virtual 3-D landscapes. These designs integrate decontextualized objects with classical human figures, rendered in swirling, soothing colors. This bold visual approach has now been translated into sound with her debut album, 'Moments of Reality,' which also aligns with her retro-inspired personal style. Zeta launched Ultramajic, an audiovisual project that functions as both a music label and an art collective, with Edgar in 2013. Edgar, a seasoned electronic music figure, brings his production skills and interest in the occult to the venture. Ultramajic's emphasis on distinctive album graphics stands out in the electronic music scene, where plain white sleeves are common. The label's visual language creates a vivid and unique world. Zeta’s journey into music began after moving into their Portland home. Surrounded by Edgar's music equipment, the idea emerged to translate her visual aesthetic into sound. They started collaborating, primarily using analog synths from the 1990s, resulting in an album that evokes a New Age atmosphere, combining futuristic elements with old-world mysticism, evident in the esoteric chants of the title track. Her sound is inspired by Japanese musician Haruomi Hosono and the pioneering synth group Art of Noise, but also heavily by her fascination with postmodern furniture. This influence became particularly strong while she was redecorating her house during the album's creation. The seamless integration of her home decor and musical composition made the album artwork creation effortless. For instance, the album features a song titled “House of Memphis,” a nod to the influential design group. Zeta also created surreal objects, described as sculptures resembling appliances without conventional use, with each song on the album having a corresponding object. Zeta's artistic vision emphasizes cohesion across her art, music, and clothing. Her personal style, which she cultivates by collecting vintage clothing, particularly Escada from the 1980s, perfectly complements her colorful and angular design world. She frequently wears vibrant, color-blocked suits, matching her attire to her living environment. Zeta owns approximately 30 colorful suits, with a multicolored Escada suit being a favorite. For Zeta, incorporating color into her daily life is a vital ritual. She selects her clothing based on her mood, often beginning her day with ambient music and incense to foster a creative environment. This deliberate morning routine and colorful dressing significantly influence her daily outlook, a stark contrast to her younger days when she exclusively wore black. She believes that experimenting with color profoundly alters one's mood and perspective, transforming her into what she describes as a "rainbow," wearing colors constantly, even down to her socks. #PilarZeta #PostmodernFurniture #ElectronicMusic #Ultramajic #VisualArt #EscadaStyle #ColorBlocking #ArtAndMusic #HomeDecor

This article explores the immersive and unconventional art installations of New York-born, Los Angeles-based artist Tita Cicognani, focusing on her use of hot tubs as central elements in her multimedia works. The artist’s practice, which largely involves sculpture and assemblage, took a unique turn with the integration of hot tubs, driven by a desire for physical interaction and shared experiences, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown. Her works contrast with the trend of “dematerializing practice” in the art world, instead embracing the tactile and communal. The piece begins by describing Cicognani’s current installation, "Heart Tub" (2022), at the Hammer Museum, where visitors can reserve 45-minute slots to soak in a heart-shaped, red crocodile-skin vinyl hot tub. This installation is designed to evoke a sense of "tackiness" and "religious frenzy," adorned with embedded video screens displaying floating holograms of flying saucers and bubbly hearts. The artist explains that this first tub was created during the initial COVID-19 lockdown, stemming from feelings of isolation and a craving for physical connection. The article then details Cicognani's earlier hot tub installations. "Mothership" (2021) was an inflatable pool designed as a "tiny wet fun house," featuring mirrors, LED lights, and a disco ball, reminiscent of a Gravitron ride. This work explored the convergence of religious and corporeal ecstasy. Another significant piece, "Prayer Cards" (2019), involved devotional cards featuring the artist's image in poses suggesting stigmata or submission, printed with the prayer of St. Francis of Assisi, challenging conventional notions of piety with pop culture aesthetics. Her second tub installation, "Grotto Tub" (2022), presented a more visceral experience. Located in an artist-run space in Chinatown, it encouraged a more uninhibited, almost chaotic interaction, with PVC pipes emitting a brown goo and accompanying videos of mud wrestling. This installation, playfully dubbed “art student soup” by a Hammer Museum curator, highlighted a deliberate embrace of the earthy and raw aspects of human interaction. The transition to the Hammer Museum for "Heart Tub" introduced new logistical challenges, including safety protocols, scheduled time slots, and ADA compliance, leading to elements like a chrome heart-shaped handrail. The article also delves into the video component of "Heart Tub," titled "I Still Believe" (2022). This 40-minute looping video, viewed from within the tub, features a green-skinned CGI avatar of the artist navigating a cheap motel with a heart-shaped tub, encountering UFOs, and immaculately conceiving an alien progeny. The narrative explores themes of desire, beauty, and love, drawing heavily from pop music and shiny aesthetics, elements Cicognani previously resisted but has now embraced. The work also has intellectual underpinnings, drawing parallels to other water-based art installations like Hélio Oiticica and Neville D’Almeida’s “CC4 Nocagions” (1973). Finally, the artist discusses the socio-economic implications of embracing "tacky" aesthetics and the interplay between high art theory and pop culture references, such as the film "Hot Tub Time Machine." The experience concludes with the writer reflecting on the custom-made pea-green towels, embroidered with an alien baby and the words "I still believe," which serve as a tangible takeaway from the immersive art experience. This installation, and Cicognani's broader body of work, actively seeks to engage the body and challenge traditional art consumption by bringing viewers directly into the art. #ArtInstallation #MultimediaArt #ContemporaryArt #HammerMuseum #ImmersiveExperience #Sculpture #PopCulture #ConceptualArt

Robert Highsmith and Stefanie Brechbuehler, the husband-and-wife founders of the design firm Workstead, have curated their living room with a collection of "unexpected heirlooms." Mr. Highsmith, 43, is described by Ms. Brechbuehler as the couple's lead collector, whose passion has filled their home with objects reflecting his thoughts, loves, and curiosities. Ms. Brechbuehler, 47, finds inspiration in being surrounded by these meaningful pieces, which range from ancient urns to midcentury modern furniture. The couple relocated from a farmhouse in Salisbury, Conn., to Charleston, S.C., and strategically displayed their favorite finds in their living room for daily enjoyment. The article highlights three key items that contribute to the unique ambiance of their living room. The first is an "Easy Upgrade" item: a weeping fig tree priced at $395 from Hyams Garden and Accent Store. The couple emphasizes the technique of using a large-scale plant or branches that touch the ceiling to create a lively and enveloping atmosphere. This “scale trick” is consistently applied in their designs, providing an unexpected visual element that pulls a room together. They purchased a nine-foot-tall weeping fig tree shortly after moving to Charleston, illustrating their commitment to this design principle. The second featured item is a "Splurge": a 19th-century boat bench priced at $2,800 from Obsolete. Mr. Highsmith has admired Obsolete in Los Angeles since his student days, finding inspiration in its curated vignettes. After establishing Workstead, he acquired this storage bench, salvaged from a boat and made of chestnut. Its wave and scroll forms, along with its practical utility—featuring doors to contain clutter—appealed to him. The bench currently serves as storage for family board games and a seating area with a view of a park, demonstrating its multifaceted functionality and whimsical quality. The third unique item is an "One of a Kind" antique weather vane from Eldred’s auction house. Mr. Highsmith’s collection includes objects chosen for their essential geometric shapes, which have influenced his light fixture designs at Workstead. Among these pieces are a rusted metal cone, a spherical iron form for casting glass floats, and a marble cylinder used as a pedestal. The timeworn weather vane from Nantucket, crafted from cedar shakes with a galvanized steel nose cone, is a particular favorite. Mr. Highsmith appreciates its beauty as a sculpture and its past functionality, noting how its new context in his living room brings delight to both the couple and their guests. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #Workstead #CollectingArt #AntiqueFurniture #HomeStyling #RealEstate #CharlestonLiving

Artist Stephanie Dillon and her husband, Reilly, were captivated by a model home in Eden Prairie, which boasted a blend of whitewashed shiplap and shakes on its exterior, creating a timeless and airy aesthetic. The interior featured light-filled communal spaces, each with a distinct character, moving away from conventional floorplans. The color scheme ranged from calming charcoals and pale neutrals to deep greens and rich terra-cotta, evoking a European atmosphere. Kelli Fontana Vogelgesang, owner of West Bay Homes and the designer behind the model, drew inspiration from her travels to Paris, characterizing the style as French contemporary farmhouse. She envisioned the kitchen as a French pastry shop, integrating multiple layers of meticulously detailed materials throughout the 5,000-square-foot residence. The kitchen's design incorporates three types of glazed tiles for the backsplashes, with a small hexagonal tile chosen for its light-reflecting properties, contributing to an elevated visual experience. Dillon, an acrylic and mixed-media artist known for painting her emotions, found a kindred spirit in Vogelgesang, whose design philosophy also prioritized passion and feeling. Dillon retained Vogelgesang to complete the interior design of their new home. The designer expressed enthusiasm for incorporating Dillon's extensive rug collection. Elements like shiplap and painted charcoal, seen on the exterior, were repeated inside on the basement's fireplace wall and the vaulted ceiling of a lounge area adjacent to the kitchen, along with charcoal-colored square tiles extending from counter to ceiling in the kitchen backsplash. This repetition of color ensures cohesiveness and a holistic progression throughout the home, where all environmental elements relate to one another. Vogelgesang skillfully managed the abundance of materials, preventing a busy or cluttered appearance, much like Dillon blends colors on her canvases. Some design choices stand out, others recede, and some shimmer, collectively defining the mood of each space. The materials coalesce into a balanced and proportionate composition, resulting in a home tailored for an artist. Vogelgesang aims to create spaces that are timeless and elegant without being overly delicate or cost-prohibitive. The lower-level bar area features charcoal shiplap around the fireplace, painted in Sherwin-Williams’s Dorian Gray, and steps down into a sunken media room, showcasing the designer’s preferred brass and gray combination. Brass hardware also adorns the front entry doors. Light fixtures, including those from Mitzi on the library ladder, were strategically chosen. The unexpected entry leads to a "dining hall" that functions as a grand foyer, as described by Vogelgesang. This space features nine-inch-wide-plank white oak floors laid in a herringbone pattern, with ceiling beams bisecting its soaring height, allowing ample natural light. The built-in bar features a backsplash of alternating light and dark neutral tiles, custom cabinetry with dental molding, and a marble sink skirt. Open shelving in the kitchen displays two sizes of backsplash tiles from The Tile Shop, with custom alder wood cabinetry finished with a clear whitewashed stain and brass hardware for an enhanced shimmer. The kitchen, inspired by Parisian pastry shops, includes two islands for ease of navigation, with only one housing a sink to allow for uninterrupted dining on the other. The mudroom boasts large-format heated tiles combined with white oak cabinetry, finished in a whitewash stain, offering an industrial concrete look harmonized with French country cabinetry. A basement guest bath incorporates vibrant color through whimsical floral tiles from The Tile Shop on one wall and Sherwin-Williams’s Perfect Periwinkle on the adjacent wall. The library features a bold mix of Sherwin-Williams paints: Canyon Clay on the walls and Gauntlet Gray in a high-gloss enamel finish on the moldings and doors, complemented by chartreuse chairs. A wide-plank whitewashed cedar wall on the rear deck provides privacy. The prep kitchen off the mudroom embraces color with Waverly Classics wallpaper by York, cabinets painted in Sherwin-Williams’s Green Onyx, and a hammered copper sink, showcasing how personal touches can enhance practical areas. The powder room dazzles with an antiqued mirrored glass tile wall from The Tile Shop, a custom white oak vanity with a marble shelf, and Savoy House sconces. The floors throughout the home incorporate patterned ceramic tiles from The Tile Shop. The home's floor plan, while a traditional rambler, diverges into an unconventional layout where the front entry opens into a vaulted foyer and dining room, serving as a pass-through to the kitchen and great room. #HomeStyle #InteriorDesign #HomeTours #FrenchContemporaryFarmhouse #CustomCabinetry #TileDesign #ArtisticHome #ArchitecturalDetails #EuropeanInfluence

This article outlines a detailed guide on creating a gallery art wall, offering a trendy and flexible method to transform any room. It emphasizes that gallery walls allow individuals to inject personality, add color, and establish a specific mood by filling empty spaces with their favorite artwork, making a statement focal point. The beauty of an art wall lies in its versatility and adaptability, allowing for modifications and additions over time as personal collections grow and tastes evolve. The guide begins by advising on how to choose the right space for a gallery wall. It suggests measuring the available area and considering eye-level placement from the floor. It encourages using the entire space, from floor to ceiling, for a comprehensive effect, providing examples such as running prints up a stairwell, extending from skirting boards to ceiling coving. Other suggestions include creating a bold statement above a sofa, bed frame, or desk area, theming food prints above a kitchen dining table, or replacing a mirror with prints above a mantelpiece. Next, the article discusses collecting pieces for the gallery. It states that there are no strict rules, whether one prefers a classic collection of framed family photos or an eclectic assortment of artwork. It suggests mounting family photos in black and white frames, arranging travel snaps in multi-photo collage frames, or displaying colorful illustrations and prints in ornate frames. The guide encourages mixing different media, such as illustrations, vinyl sleeves, magazine covers, canvases, mirrors, maps, 3D signs, and old plates, to create an eclectic display. It also recommends theming or complementing pieces to a specific color scheme or room, for instance, floral pieces for a garden room or pastel prints to match wall paint. Furthermore, it suggests being bold by contrasting colors, designs, and prints, particularly against dark or white walls, for a versatile display. Before making any permanent changes, the article recommends laying out the arrangement on the floor to plan the gallery effectively. For those using picture hooks, brown paper templates are suggested as a handy way to transfer the design to the wall for precise placement. If a staggered layout is preferred, the largest or favorite piece should be positioned first as a focal point, with other pieces arranged around it. The process involves drawing around each frame with a pencil to create templates, taking a photo of the layout, and then cutting out each template. For picture hooks, making a small fixing mark in each outline to indicate the pin's placement is also advised. Finally, the guide provides instructions on correctly hanging the pieces. It mentions various methods for affixing pictures securely, including adhesive strips, traditional picture hooks, or wall plugs and screws for heavier items. When using brown paper templates and picture hooks, the templates should be taped onto the wall, starting with the focal piece aligned with eye level. After taping the remaining templates and adjusting their placement, a pin can be hammered into each fixing mark, the paper removed, and the artwork hung. For grid layouts, which are ideal for collections of photos or series of pieces in matching frames, a gap of 2-5 inches between frames is generally recommended, scaled according to the space. If using adhesive strips, the focal piece should be placed first, followed by the remaining pieces until the design is complete. #GalleryWall #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #ArtDisplay #WallArt #CreativeSpaces #HomeImprovement #DIYHomeDecor

This article explores various methods and products for displaying vinyl records as decorative elements in a home, moving them from simple storage to prominent wall art. It emphasizes that for music enthusiasts, displaying records is a way to express their passion and enhance their living space. The piece begins by highlighting the effort collectors put into acquiring and maintaining their vinyl, suggesting that these cherished items deserve to be showcased rather than hidden away on shelves. It then categorizes display options into temporary stands for actively played records and more permanent wall mounts for collectible or autographed LPs. Practical advice is offered for those considering wall mounting, including the importance of using appropriate tools like stud finders and screwdrivers. A crucial recommendation is to protect displayed records from direct sunlight or excessive heat to prevent damage and maintain playability. The article then details six specific products designed for vinyl display. The MÖNKE Vinyl Record Wall Mount is presented as a simple wooden groove solution for showcasing a single album cover, ideal for the record currently being played. The Collector Mount Vinyl Record Frame offers a suspended, 3D effect for full-sized LPs and 10-inch records, providing a visually striking display where the records appear to float. For more permanent installations, the MCS Deluxe Record Album Frame is introduced as a matted frame suitable for displaying valuable or autographed 12-inch LPs and their artwork, emphasizing its role as a focal point. The Gatefold Album Frame is recommended for albums with extensive, unfolded gatefold artwork, such as The Beatles’ *Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band*, allowing for horizontal or vertical display. The Record Props Vinyl Record Display is highlighted for its versatility, accommodating various record sizes including singles and EPs, with a unique X-shaped design that makes records appear suspended in mid-air while allowing for easy swapping. Finally, the KAIU Record Frame is presented as a balanced solution, offering both protection for records with its magnetic front door and accessibility for easy changing, blending well with other framed artwork. Each product description includes its features, installation methods, and unique aesthetic benefits. The overall aim is to guide readers in choosing the best display method to personalize their space and celebrate their music collection. #VinylRecords #HomeDecor #RecordDisplay #WallMounts #MusicCollection #InteriorDesign #AlbumArtwork #HomeImprovement