Four Art Looks With Threshold X Studio McGee Spring

The latest Threshold x Studio McGee collection, available at Target, encapsulates the essence of spring with its vibrant floral patterns and lighthearted rattan elements. This article highlights how various social media influencers and Studio McGee enthusiasts are incorporating these new products into their home decor, offering a wealth of styling inspiration. Each featured item is showcased with a corresponding image and credit to the original poster, demonstrating real-world applications and aesthetic appeal. One of the featured items is the Toronto Marble Dish, a beige accent piece that adds a touch of sophistication to any setting, as styled by @herrneutralcottage. Another popular item is the '24" x 18" Landscape Study' framed wall canvas, presented in an antique gold frame, which brings an artistic and tranquil focal point to a room, as illustrated by @homeonharbor. The Rattan Floor Lamp, with its brown finish and tapered rattan shade, contributes a natural and warm glow, shown in a setting by @orrisoninteriors. The collection also includes textile elements such as the Block Print Quilt in mauve, which offers a cozy and decorative layer, as styled by @sarahroseinch. The Small Terracotta Vase introduces an earthy texture and is depicted by @coastal_cass as a charming detail. For bedding, the Lace Border Cotton Slub Duvet and Sham Set provides a delicate and inviting look, also styled by @sarahroseinch, suggesting a cohesive bedroom aesthetic. Lighting fixtures continue to be a highlight with the Ceramic Table Lamp featuring a Gingham Print Pleated Shade in white, adding a classic and charming touch to a space, as displayed by @theboyerhome. A functional and stylish seating option is the Clarkdale Channel Tufted Ottoman with a wood base and curly boucle fabric, showcasing versatility and comfort in a setup by @arianalauren. Lastly, another Ceramic Table Lamp, this time with a Rattan Shade in white, offers a complementary natural element, as integrated into a design by @keylime_cottage. These selections from the Threshold x Studio McGee spring collection are celebrated for their ability to infuse homes with fresh, seasonal styles, ranging from decorative accents and wall art to lighting and textiles. The article serves as a visual guide and source of inspiration, illustrating how these specific products can be utilized to create inviting and aesthetically pleasing interiors, reflecting the distinct design philosophy of Studio McGee through accessible retail options. #HomeDecor #SpringCollection #StudioMcGee #Target #InteriorDesignTrends #RattanDecor #TextileDesign #HomeStyling #DecorInspiration

This blog post highlights various ways customers have styled pieces from the Studio McGee x Threshold Spring 2022 collection, demonstrating the versatility and aesthetic appeal of the collaboration's products within real home environments. The article serves as a curated showcase of community-generated content, featuring Instagram posts from various users who have integrated the collection's items into their personal decor. The featured items span a range of home furnishings and decorative accents, including the Marble Links, showcased in a modern living space, and the Handled Vintage Vase, which appears in two distinct settings—first as a standalone decorative piece and then alongside other accents on a console table. The Cream Vintage Vase is also presented, emphasizing its role in adding a touch of classic elegance to a minimalist shelf arrangement. Seating solutions are also highlighted, with the Lynwood Square Upholstered Cube shown as a versatile accent piece in a cozy reading nook, and the Agoura Hills Cane Back Accent Chair providing a comfortable and stylish seating option next to a window. Storage and display units are represented by the Scalloped Bowl, utilized for both functional and decorative purposes on a kitchen island, and the Decorative Metal Ladder Gold, which offers vertical storage for blankets and throws. Lighting and larger furniture items also make an appearance. The Ceramic Table Lamp with Rattan Shade White adds ambient lighting and texture to a bedside table, while the Woodland Hills Wood Base Sofa anchors a living room, exemplifying a blend of comfort and contemporary design. Various decorative boxes, including the Large and Small Checkered Resin Boxes, are displayed on shelves and desks, providing stylish organizational solutions. Other notable pieces include the Burl Wood Cross Corner Decorative Wall Mirror Natural, which serves as a statement piece in a hallway, and the Light Woven Vase, which is shown both as a floor vase and a tabletop accent. Textile elements like the Euro Etched Neutral Floral Decorative Throw Pillow, Linen Tray, and Oversized Oblon Boucle Woven Stripe Decorative Throw Pillow Khaki are also featured, illustrating how they can enhance comfort and visual interest in seating areas. The Portola Hills Caned Desk and the Portola Hills 3 Shelf Horizontal Bookcase demonstrate how the collection can furnish functional home office or living spaces. The overall tone of the article encourages readers to explore the collection and share their own styling interpretations. #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #TargetStyle #StudioMcGee #SpringCollection #HomeStyling #Threshold #DesignInspiration #CommunityShowcase

Threshold, Target's exclusive home brand, has released its new spring collection, featuring a variety of affordable and on-trend home decor items, furniture, bedding, and storage solutions. A recent trip to Target highlighted several standout pieces from this collection that are ideal for refreshing home interiors for spring. Among the top picks is the Trailing Pothos Plant, a faux plant housed in a neutral ceramic pot, offering versatile greenery for any space. The Spun Glass Vase, approximately 8 inches tall and 5 inches wide, is designed for displaying flowers. It features watertight construction and ribbed detailing, available in black and pink to complement various decor styles. For those seeking vintage aesthetics, the Side Table with Twisted Legs, a collaboration between Threshold and Studio McGee, provides an affordable option. Standing at nearly 22 inches tall, it features braided legs and a rich walnut finish. The collection also includes Blue and White Ceramic Vases, offered in large, medium, and small sizes, each with a unique nature-inspired pattern, capitalizing on the classic blue-and-white color scheme. A Rustic Ceramic Horse Bust serves as a distinctive statement piece with its rustic finish, suitable for display on mantels or shelves. To enhance ambient lighting, the Rattan-Wrapped Hurricane Pillar Holder comes in short and tall sizes, designed to accommodate various pillar candles and add texture to any setting. Complementing this, a Set of 3 Wood Taper Candle Holders provides warmth and visual interest, perfect for table centerpieces or mantel decor. Functionality meets design in the Woven Portable Cordless Table Lamp. This lamp features a rich rattan texture and three light settings, offering a cozy ambiance. Its portable and rechargeable design makes it versatile for areas without electrical outlets. Finally, the Reactive Glaze Vase showcases a handcrafted reactive glaze finish, ensuring each piece is unique. Its soft green hue provides an elevated pop of color, suitable for displaying fresh flowers or serving as a standalone decorative element. These items collectively offer accessible options for updating home aesthetics with spring-inspired designs. #HomeDecor #SpringCollection #TargetThreshold #InteriorDesign #AffordableDecor #HomeRefresh #DecorativeVases #FauxGreenery #TableLamps

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

Shea McGee's latest collaboration with Target, under the 'Threshold designed w/Studio McGee' brand, offers a spring collection inspired by rural cottages and the season's aesthetics. This collection aims to make elevated, sophisticated, yet cozy and rustic interior design accessible on a budget. The range features both classic and trendy pieces suitable for various spaces within a home, from inviting hallways to plush living rooms and outdoor areas. Among the highlighted items is the Lynwood Square Upholstered Cube Ottoman, featuring a timeless plaid print that is on-trend for 2025. This versatile piece can serve as extra seating in a living room, entryway, or at the foot of a bed. Storage solutions include the Large Lidded Rattan Decorative Basket in brown, made from natural rattan, which is currently popular. This basket provides a chic way to store household items and can be paired with smaller baskets for a layered look. Decorative accents include the Square Pillow Big Stripe with Ruffle in pale yellow and cream, a whimsical yet bold statement accessory perfect for country-inspired decor, especially when paired with floral pillows. For dining areas, the collection offers Cardamine Wooden Dining Chairs, available in a set of two, blending wood and rattan for a rustic feel. These chairs are suitable for dining tables or as accent pieces in hallways. An Exaggerated Rim Ceramic Tall Vase with an elegant finish is presented as an ideal vessel for lush foliage or spring bouquets, its neutral design making it a sophisticated addition to any table. The Cardamine Racetrack Dining Table, made from natural wood, is a sturdy and timeless option for year-round dining, aligning with 2025 furniture trends. For living spaces, a 50 x 60" Throw Allover Jacquard Floral Multi Color brings tapestry-style fabrics back into vogue, offering opulence and coziness with muted blue, green, and pink accents that can be emphasized through coordinating pillows. A Bolster Geo Pattern in Cream and Peach provides a vintage feel and lavish touch to sofas or beds. The Kauri Upholstered Accent Chair, with its rounded wooden legs and curved arms, embodies a classic cottage style. For kitchen and dining accessories, a 13" Melamine Oval Serving Platter is inspired by vintage designs in color and shape, suggested for display on dressers with other tableware. A Set of 3 Ceramic Ribbed Taper Candle Holders in beige offers a contemporary take on traditional candle holders, perfect for creating a homely ambiance. A Woven Bowl Wavy Rim with Pedestal Base in rattan emphasizes textural designs for plush and inviting spaces, particularly suited for a rustic, farmhouse kitchen aesthetic. Outdoor living is also addressed with pieces like the Sun Bleached Composite Indoor Outdoor Planter Pot in cream, an elegant choice for spring-inspired plants like pink tulips or ferns. The Round Striped Scalloped Fringe Edge Outdoor Patio Market Umbrella in cream provides whimsical shade for outdoor dining. Finally, 22"x22" Striped Round Deep Seat Outdoor Back Cushions in cream offer a simple yet refined touch to outdoor seating arrangements, coordinating well with a pale blue tablecloth for a cohesive scheme. The collection overall aims to refresh homes with sophisticated, fun pieces for every room, offering extensive inspiration for the new year. #SheaMcGee #TargetCollaboration #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #CottageCore #SpringDecor #AffordableLuxury #CountryStyle #DecorTrends

Stillmade, a Brooklyn-based furniture manufacturer and designer known for its support of emerging designers, has launched its inaugural Collaborative Series. This new initiative combines Stillmade's manufacturing capabilities with the creative visions of four distinct artists and designers: Danny Kaplan, Pat Kim, Michele Quan, and Stillmade's founder and creative director, Paul Mignogna, through his Mignogna Studio. The series features a collection of furniture pieces, including a sofa, credenza, hutch, side table, and two coffee tables, each reflecting a blend of artisan craftsmanship and a modern aesthetic. The collaboration with Pat Kim, a celebrated industrial designer and artist, introduces a playful and sculptural element to the series. His contributions include the Kim Coffee Table and Kim Side Table. These pieces are distinguished by their organically shaped bases, finished in hand-troweled, lime-based plaster. Sculpted wooden arms support circular tabletops, adding warmth and a natural touch to the contemporary designs. The interplay of materials and forms highlights Kim's unique aesthetic. Ceramicist Michele Quan's involvement marks her first foray into furniture design. For the Collaborative Series, her iconic celestial ceramic half-moon sculptures have been reimagined as functional cabinet pulls for two large-scale cabinet pieces: the Painted Credenza and the Painted Hutch. These pieces showcase a seamless integration of fine art into functional furniture, offering a distinctive and artistic approach to home storage. Danny Kaplan's Jane Coffee Table draws inspiration from Roger Capron's ceramic inlay tables. Kaplan designed a set of unique tiles that are set into the top of Stillmade’s minimalist solid wood table base. This design creates a compelling visual contrast between the base's clean lines and the organic geometry and textured surfaces of the rounded and oval-shaped tiles. The table exemplifies a harmonious blend of classic inspiration and modern execution. Paul Mignogna's own design practice, Mignogna Studio, contributes the Clifton Sofa to the series. This sofa prioritizes comfort and lounging while maintaining a sleek and minimal aesthetic. The design purposefully highlights Stillmade's manufacturing expertise through an exposed wooden frame and intricate joinery, demonstrating the brand's commitment to quality craftsmanship and thoughtful design. The Clifton Sofa embodies a contemporary approach to comfort and structural integrity. The Collaborative Series underscores Stillmade's decade-long commitment to making high-quality production accessible to smaller, innovative designers. By partnering with these artists, Stillmade not only showcases diverse creative talents but also reaffirms its dedication to producing furniture that embodies both artistic expression and functional elegance. The collection is a testament to the power of collaboration in the design world, resulting in unique and well-crafted pieces that bridge art and utility. #Stillmade #CollaborativeSeries #FurnitureDesign #ArtisanCraftsmanship #ModernAesthetic #HomeFurnishings #PatKim #MicheleQuan #DannyKaplan #MignognaStudio

Lithos Design, an Italian brand specializing in marble products, has expanded its Pietre Incise wall covering collection with the introduction of four new three-dimensional textures: Agra, Bugna, Crystal, and Plissé. These additions are designed by Raffaello Galiotto and aim to highlight the inherent beauty and natural materiality of marble through intricate patterns and relief. The Pietre Incise collection, which now comprises 26 distinct designs, is characterized by its focus on how light interacts with carved stone surfaces, creating dynamic visual effects that change throughout the day. The newly launched textures draw inspiration from diverse sources, including architectural techniques and fabric manufacturing processes. Agra, for instance, is influenced by Oriental art and the monumental architecture of the Indian city of Agra, renowned for the Taj Mahal. Its three-dimensional surface aims to evoke the grandeur and detailed craftsmanship seen in such structures. Plissé, named after the fabric, replicates the soft, vertical folds of pleated material, translating this textile quality into a subtle, elegant stone wall covering. Crystal features a regular geometric structure, designed to mimic the captivating and organized patterns found in natural crystals. This texture creates a sense of order and depth, playing with light to produce a spellbinding effect. Bugna, the fourth new texture, is inspired by the ancient rustication technique, which has been used in architecture for centuries. It showcases rounded corners, staggered vertical grooves, and horizontal slits, all contributing to a rich interplay of light and shadow that adds visual interest and a sense of history to interior spaces. Each wall covering in the Pietre Incise collection is categorized into one of five subsections: linear, geometric, wavy, organic, and architectural, allowing for a wide range of aesthetic applications. The designs are engineered to maximize the impact of light, which accentuates the natural appearance of the marble and creates an evolving tapestry of shades and patterns on the walls as the brightness shifts. This thoughtful consideration of light interaction is a core element of the collection's design philosophy. The new textures are available in modular units, each measuring 60/120 x 60 x 2 centimeters, offering versatility for various installation requirements. Lithos Design emphasizes that these additions further demonstrate the infinite potential of marble as a design material, transforming functional wall coverings into artistic statements that celebrate natural stone. The brand encourages exploring the full Pietre Incise collection and its latest textures on its official website, providing designers and homeowners with innovative options for interior surface design. #MarbleWallCoverings #LithosDesign #PietreIncise #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalSurfaces #ThreeDimensionalTextures #StoneDesign #RaffaelloGaliotto #HomeDecor

This article offers comprehensive guidance on effectively hanging art, drawing insights from award-winning designers, a museum director, and Christie’s specialists and art handlers. It emphasizes the importance of considering the context in which art will be displayed, noting that factors such as whether the space is domestic, business, or institutional, along with architectural elements like windows, doors, ceiling height, and floor quality, all influence how an artwork is perceived and interacts with its environment. The article advises against hanging art in locations that could lead to damage. Specifically, it cautions against placing artworks above fireplaces or radiators, as heat can melt or damage canvases over time. Similarly, direct sunlight is highlighted as a risk for fragile or unprotected works, with a strong recommendation to avoid hanging drawings or watercolors near windows. To mitigate these risks, smart framing techniques are suggested, including the use of special glazes that block UV light to prevent fading and seals that create artificial environments to protect against humidity and temperature fluctuations. The article references a guide to framing for further expert advice. Establishing the correct height for hanging art is another key aspect. It notes that modern and contemporary works are typically hung at 1.55 meters to the middle of the picture, a standard adopted by museums and Christie’s. Old Masters are often hung slightly higher. However, domestic settings may require adjustments based on furniture and ceiling height, and some artists, like Le Corbusier, provided specific hanging instructions. The importance of using double fixings rather than a single central one is stressed to prevent works from tilting forward or moving easily. The article also delves into the aesthetic considerations of art display. It introduces the concept of “negative space” as a crucial element when arranging multiple artworks, defining it as the space between works that guides the spectator's eye. Designers encourage variety in art arrangements, advocating for the mixing of periods and genres to create dynamic visual dialogues. Examples include pairing 17th-century portraits with contemporary paintings or combining a large painting with smaller groups of photographs. Finding visual or thematic links between artworks is suggested as a method for grouping, even if they span centuries apart, as demonstrated by juxtaposing a Leda and the Swan painting with modern bird sculptures, or a David LaChapelle work with a Dutch Old Master to explore shared themes. Conversely, playing on contrasts is also presented as an effective strategy to allow individual works to stand out as singular forces. Finally, the article provides practical advice for installation, emphasizing the need for technical precision over subjective judgment. It recommends using a tape measure and spirit level to ensure artworks are hung straight, especially for symmetrical arrangements. Structural considerations are also paramount: understanding wall composition is crucial, particularly for heavy pieces, and it's important to be cautious of water pipes and electrical wiring, especially in older homes where their placement might be less predictable. Despite these technicalities, the overarching message is that personal preference should ultimately guide the arrangement, stating that there is no absolute right or wrong way to organize a collection. Experts’ personal approaches reveal diverse methods, from protecting prints in bedrooms to integrating small works into bookshelves, underscoring that a good artwork will look appealing regardless of its placement. #ArtHanging #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #ArtCollection #FramingArt #ArtDisplay #MuseumStandards #ArtPreservation #ContemporaryArt

Rachel Schlather, the blogger behind CLEfashionista, transformed her new Strongsville home with a Cleveland-themed gallery wall, making it a central decorating priority upon moving in last year. Her approach involved a curated collection of prints, posters, and art sourced from local shops, reflecting a style she describes as “midcentury modern with a touch of Cleveland.” Schlather aimed for a cool, un-kitschy vibe by taking her time with the selection process, acquiring pieces over several months. This allowed for a blend of budget-friendly items and more expensive art, ensuring a balanced aesthetic. Color coordination was a significant factor, leading her to even paint some frames to perfectly match the overall scheme. The meticulous planning involved laying out the gallery wall on the floor numerous times before finalizing its arrangement. The gallery wall is prominently displayed in the joint dining and living room of her 1960s ranch-style home, creating an immediate and lasting impression on visitors and serving as a conversation starter. One of Schlather's most cherished pieces is a print of the Leonard Schlather Brewing Co. This find holds personal significance as her husband is a distant relative to one of the brewery’s namesakes. Operating from 1857 to 1902, the company's storage facilities were historically located in the building that now houses the Great Lakes Brewing Co., a detail often mentioned during brewery tours. Further enhancing the local theme are two framed maps from Lakewood’s Cuyahoga Collective, positioned above the dining table. These maps feature Strongsville, her current hometown, and Marblehead, the location of her family’s lake house, a frequent summer retreat. These pieces serve as year-round reminders of cherished family memories and important geographical connections. A framed copy of The Plain Dealer front page commemorating the 2016 NBA Championship is another key element, included at her husband's insistence. This newspaper article celebrates a significant moment in Cleveland sports history, adding a dynamic and commemorative aspect to the collection. Beneath the gallery wall, a cozy sitting area is bathed in natural light. This space features midcentury-style chairs in a warm hue paired with a gray couch, designed for both admiring the art and relaxation. Schlather emphasizes the functional and inviting nature of this area, noting that the furniture and decor are not overly formal, making it practical for a household with two children. This sitting area is regularly used for enjoying coffee or working, underscoring the blend of aesthetics and utility in her home's design. #ClevelandThemedDecor #GalleryWall #HomeStyle #MidcenturyModern #LocalArt #StrongsvilleHome #HomeDecor #CLEfashionista

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

Art history frequently features paintings of home interiors, offering valuable insights into artists' lives and working environments. For example, Henri Matisse's 1911 painting, *Red Studio*, not only showcases his identifiable artworks and objects but also reveals the arrangement of his studio, functioning as a historical record of his artistic space. Recognizing the historical and personal significance embedded within these interior paintings, the creative agency NeoMam, in collaboration with the home-improvement service HomeAdvisor, embarked on a project to re-imagine six such historically significant rooms. They transformed these famous art-historical interiors into realistic computer-generated (CG) renderings, presenting a modern interpretation of how these spaces might appear today. One of the re-imagined rooms is Vincent van Gogh's *The Bedroom* (1888), which provides an intimate glimpse into his personal life in Arles, France. Van Gogh intended the painting to evoke peace and relaxation. Historical analysis by the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam indicates that the vibrant, strongly contrasting colors seen today are partly due to years of discoloration; the walls and doors were originally purple, not the blue that is now prominent. Another featured interior is from Grant Wood's 1928 painting *The Sun Shine on the Corner*. Wood, a Midwestern realist painter renowned for his rural American depictions, including *American Gothic* (1930), presents a charming and inviting nook in this work. The painting's muted, earthy color palette contributes to its welcoming atmosphere. Wassily Kandinsky's 1909 painting *Interior (My Dining Room)* is also among the chosen works. Kandinsky, a pioneer of abstraction, used this painting not only to explore color and texture but also to depict his home. The eclectic palette employed in the artwork imbues the space with a distinct personality, reflecting his artistic approach even in a domestic setting. Konstantin Korovin's 1913 painting *Interior* portrays a Russian Impressionist setting. Korovin, known for his landscapes, portraits, and still lifes, used rose and beige hues, complemented by the view of winter snow outside the window, to create a quiet and comforting environment in this work, emphasizing warmth and tranquility through its depiction of bare wood. Finally, the project includes Roy Lichtenstein’s 1991 work, *Interior With Restful Paintings*. This piece, representative of Lichtenstein’s mature Pop Art style, is part of his “Interiors” series. In this series, he depicted domestic environments, often drawing inspiration from furniture advertisements. A recurring element in these works is an artwork placed within the artwork itself, here positioned above a couch. The CG rendering of this interior provides a contemporary view of Lichtenstein's distinct flat pop imagery in a three-dimensional context. The collection also highlights Eduard Petrovich Hau’s 1835 watercolor of *Empress Alexandra Feodorovna’s Sitting Room*, detailing the opulent interior of Russia's last empress's living space with rich ornamentation. #ArtHistory #InteriorDesign #FamousPaintings #DigitalArt #CGIRenderings #HomeDecor #ArtInterpretation #VisualCulture

The Edinburgh gallery Bard presents a new exhibition titled 'Bardware,' which aims to reframe the perception of craft from an exclusive, high-art domain to an accessible, everyday practice. Founded by Hugo Macdonald and James Stevens, Bard seeks to bridge the gap between craft as a specialized hobby and as luxury objects, instead focusing on items designed for daily use and sensory engagement within the home. The inspiration for 'Bardware' stems from the founders' appreciation for traditional hardware stores, which they view as symbols of optimism and the human capacity to make, fix, build, and repair. The exhibition features works from 20 Scottish craftspeople, designers, and artists, all commissioned to create objects that enhance daily domestic life. The brief encouraged the artists to produce items that could be touched and used regularly, challenging the conventional hands-off approach often associated with gallery exhibits. The display includes a diverse range of functional and decorative items, such as Primitive Arrangement vases by Nick Ross, two-armed candelabras by David Taylor, and architectural toilet-roll holders crafted by Juli Bolaños-Durman from salvaged materials. Other notable pieces include James Rigler’s bronze-glazed ceramic 'Greek Knobs,' Oliver Spendley’s bowls made from polished mountain rock shards, and All About Willow’s hand-turned cherry porridge spurtles. The collection also showcases Clement Knives’ pocket knives made from whisky-barrel hoops, Eve Eunson’s baskets woven from sea plastic collected from Shetland’s beaches, and Studio Viv Lee’s devotional ceramic characters. Additionally, Jess White contributes leather-wrapped boulder doorstops, while Araminta Campbell offers cozy alpaca hot-water bottle covers. Each piece is presented to encourage interaction, emphasizing the tactile and experiential qualities of craft. This exhibition marks three years since Bard opened its doors in Leith, establishing a unique approach to presenting and selling craft. Macdonald highlights the importance of humor and mild irreverence in making craft more approachable and moving it beyond the confines of a museum setting into everyday life. He acknowledges the cost associated with handcrafted items but underscores their inherent value, contrasting this with the societal issue of cheap, mass-produced goods. Since its inception, Bard has observed a significant increase in public engagement with craft, marked by a greater willingness to purchase, utilize, and inquire about the practitioners, materials, and skills involved. Macdonald believes that craft is a fundamental 'life force' that enriches human experience and fosters connections across cultures and time. He posits that craft is not a regressive or counterbalancing force to design and technology but rather a parallel and powerful element that becomes even more impactful when integrated into modern life, indicating a collective awakening to its enduring relevance and value. #CraftExhibition #ScottishArt #HomeDecor #DesignInteriors #FunctionalArt #BardGallery #EverydayObjects #HardwareShopInspiration #ContemporaryCraft

Studio McW undertook the extension and redesign of the lower ground floor of Threshold House, a semi-detached, split-level Victorian residence situated in London's De Beauvoir neighborhood. The project's primary objective was to expand the dwelling to accommodate extended hospitality and to introduce a greater connection to the rear garden through a sunken, brick-lined courtyard. The existing lower ground floor, characterized by a series of fragmented spaces and limited access to natural light, presented a significant design challenge. The clients, a couple with a strong affinity for hosting guests, sought a living environment that would foster social interaction and provide versatile spaces for both large gatherings and intimate moments. They also desired a seamless transition between the interior and exterior, a connection that was notably absent in the original layout. Studio McW's design response involved a strategic reorganization of the internal program and a thoughtful integration of a new outdoor area. The intervention focused on creating a coherent flow throughout the lower level, enhancing natural light penetration, and establishing a direct visual and physical link to the garden. The addition of a sunken courtyard not only introduced a verdant outlook but also served to define a new threshold between the renovated interior and the re-landscaped exterior. This courtyard, clad in brickwork, acts as an extension of the internal living areas, providing an additional space for relaxation and entertainment. Material selection played a crucial role in shaping the aesthetic and tactile qualities of the redesigned spaces. Studio McW opted for a palette of natural and durable materials, including exposed brick, concrete, and timber, to create a sense of warmth and permanence. The use of brick, in particular, establishes a continuity with the Victorian architectural heritage of the house while introducing a contemporary sensibility. Large expanses of glazing were incorporated to maximize natural light and offer uninterrupted views of the courtyard and garden, further blurring the boundaries between inside and out. The reconfigured lower ground floor now comprises a spacious open-plan living area, a modern kitchen, and dining facilities, all designed to facilitate social engagement. The layout allows for flexible furniture arrangements, accommodating a range of activities from casual family meals to more formal entertaining. The project successfully transforms a previously underutilized and disconnected basement level into a vibrant and inviting heart of the home, tailored to the clients' lifestyle and their passion for hospitality. The thoughtful integration of architecture and landscape design has resulted in a dwelling that not only meets the functional needs of its occupants but also enriches their daily experience. #ResidentialArchitecture #HouseRenovation #LondonArchitecture #StudioMcW #VictorianHome #InteriorDesign #CourtyardDesign #ArchitecturalExtension #UnitedKingdom

Displaying art in a home, whether it's a house or a condo, is an artistic endeavor that requires careful consideration of various factors to create impact and harmony within the space. While there are no strict rules in design, according to Ben Leavitt of PlaidFox Studio, there are optimal approaches to showcasing artwork. The size of the living space significantly influences art placement, with larger homes offering more opportunities than smaller condos. Despite size constraints, art is considered essential for bringing life to any space. Happy Home Design, for example, specializes in optimizing art display in small spaces like modern condos, which often have abundant windows, limiting wall space. In such environments, art pieces become more impactful as they face less competition from other artworks. The density of windows in new condo builds necessitates a strategic approach to identifying feature walls and determining appropriate artwork sizes. Artwork chosen for display should allow for "breathing room," meaning individual pieces should have enough surrounding space to be appreciated. For collectors with numerous pieces, the challenge lies in curating these items to provide each piece with adequate space and to thoughtfully juxtapose them to foster a dialogue between artworks. When assisting clients in selecting art, designers consider the homeowners' interests, desired mood for the room, and color schemes. The physical dimensions and scale of the artwork must be proportionate to the furniture and the overall balance of the room. Creating visually engaging vignettes as one moves through a space is also important; blank walls that disrupt the room's balance are opportunities for artwork. In prominent areas like a foyer, a larger artwork can create a significant visual impact compared to a smaller piece on a grand wall. Different rooms call for different artistic considerations. Leavitt suggests that the choice of art for a bedroom versus a living room depends on the desired atmosphere. Calming artwork would suit a serene room, for instance. Practical aspects, such as reflections, are also important; rooms with ample natural light may benefit from art without glass or with non-glare, matte-finish glass to prevent distracting reflections. Family artwork is often preferred in more personal areas, such as bedrooms or hallways leading to private spaces, rather than in public living rooms. Thematic art, like a beach scene, might be appropriate for a bathroom, especially if it relates to family photos or interests. Another approach to displaying art is creating a gallery wall, space permitting. For those who haven't accumulated art over a long period, the goal is to create a curated look that suggests a long-standing collection. This involves selecting diverse pieces that represent stylistic contrasts, ranging from minimalist to vibrant and colorful. A well-designed gallery wall incorporates a variety of frames, including wood, gilded, vintage, and contemporary, as well as pictures on stretched canvas. The inclusion of three-dimensional pieces, such as artifacts from travels, is also recommended to add depth and interest. A common strategy is to start with a primary piece in the center and expand outwards, leaving small sections to be filled with personal items. This method allows for the collection to evolve and grow with the homeowner over time. #HomeArt #InteriorDesign #ArtCuration #GalleryWall #HomeDecorating #SmallSpaceDesign #ArtworkPlacement

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