How to Display Artwork for a Designer Look in Your STR
Here are a few of my favorite tips to style artwork throughout your short-term rental for a designer look:
A Gallery Wall
Creating a gallery wall can feel daunting, but it’s a great way to fill a large empty wall or hallway. Gallery walls can be symmetrical or asymmetrical, and one of the first decisions to make is whether you want everything framed in the same material or not. Some people prefer to display black and white travel photos of the same size and in the same frame; this works well when hung in a symmetrical grid. Others may prefer to use frames made of different materials or colors and in different sizes, which lends well to an asymmetrical display. I recommend laying out the pieces on the floor beforehand to determine the best arrangement.
Layered on a Bookcase
Scroll through interior design blogs or your favorite home décor catalog and you’ll likely see artwork displayed on the shelves of a bookcase or built-in shelving. It’s really one of the easiest ways to create a pro look! Simply lean the art against the back of the shelf and add a small stack of books in front of it. Using art and other objects, such as a vases or bowls, throughout your bookcase adds interest and can be easily styled with no hanging needed.
In a Corner & with a Chair
This may sound like a no-brainer, but many people miss this opportunity to create a standout moment in a room. If you’re hanging art above a chair in a corner, make sure the two are close enough to each other so they feel visually connected. To do this, hang the bottom of the art/frame between five to ten inches above the top of the chair.
On Kitchen Shelving
Similar to adding art to a bookcase or shelving, artwork leaned or hung at the back of open kitchen shelving adds a bit of the unexpected, which is what I love about it. Pair it with a stack of ceramic bowls and a wooden cutting board and viola – kitchen vignette done!
Above the Mantel
Typically the fireplace is the focal point of a room, making it a great place to display a beautiful piece. Ideally your artwork is about three-fourths the width of your mantle and centered above it. Or, if your favorite piece isn’t wide enough, you can create a grouping of art on the mantle leaned against the wall. Be sure to vary the height and width of your pieces. I love adding an arched mirror as part of this grouping, but be sure to secure anything with glass to the wall (even if it is leaned against the wall).
I’d love to see the artwork displayed throughout your vacation rental home! Tag me on Instagram @VacayRentalDesign. Happy styling!
