Art in Interior Design: How to Find Space for It and Not Regret It

It is impossible to explain to someone indifferent to art why it is necessary in the home. For those who love and value art — a post by designer Marina Filippova about how to integrate beauty into your interior.

Marina Filippova
Designer, Founder of Interior Studio Marina Filippova Designs

Plan the placement of objects in advance

For me, art is always an inseparable part of living or public space. Without it, an interior looks lifeless and empty. As soon as I start working on a new project, I immediately think about special places where paintings, graphics, or sculptures will be located.

Painting

For the living room, I usually choose contemporary art in line with the proportions of the room. The canvas should be in harmony with the interior both in color and content, as well as in mood. Generally, people view their home as a place of rest. Therefore, in my opinion, the calmer the subject of the artwork, the better its chances to blend into the interior.

Sculpture

A sculpture should, on one hand, be clearly visible from different angles, and on the other — occupy a safe spot not in a passage, especially if there are children in the house. The ideal place for a large sculpture is a wall niche. Medium-sized works can be placed on pedestals, console tables, and low furniture.

Graffiti

Graffiti are traditionally loved by teenagers, so it is the best form of art for teenagers' rooms. Graffiti also suit lofts, where large wall surfaces and high ceilings provide a field for the most daring artistic experiments.

Graphics and Photography

Graphics and photography work well in almost all spaces. To avoid traditional symmetrical hanging of small photos in identical frames, you can make one large photograph that becomes the focal point and decorative accent. Surround it with smaller works arranged in a random order.

Mix, but Don't Overdo It

I am not a supporter of placing classical artworks in classic interiors. On the contrary, I believe that injecting “new blood” into classic art — ultra-modern art — makes it more relevant in a classic setting.

The sharper the mix, the better. But of course, moderation is essential. You should first think about what you want to achieve — shock the audience or create a subtle artistic vibration?

Illustrations: Interior Design Projects by Marina Filippova.