by Carolyn Anderson
Co-Principal, Desa Design

One of the most popular trends in home design is volume. Today's ceilings soar to new heights to create bright open spaces that live large. While all this space creates a stunning room, it presents a decorating challenge for many homeowners. As you can imagine, large expanses of wall space can overwhelm artwork. How do interior designers handle walls that are bigger than life? Let me share a few tricks of the trade...

Bigger is Better
It's important to keep in mind that these towering walls require larger pieces of art or a carefully planned grouping. Large pieces can be difficult to find. One of my favorite sources is the local frame shop. Most have poster catalogs with thousands of images to choose from. I especially like Winn-Devon, Graphic De France, and Bruce McGraw Graphics. All of these catalogs offer oversize pieces to match any decor. When looking at artwork keep in mind that you can add to the size of your piece by increasing the size of the matting. On large pieces I like to have four to eight inches of matting. You can also try creative treatments like double or triple matting an image.

The Scoop on Groupings
When you are creating a grouping, try to visualize the final look before you hammer it home, or in this case, into your home. You can use graph paper to sketch the wall space and the art work to scale. This will give you an idea of what sizes and placement will work best in the space.

If you are working with pieces you already have, cut scrap paper to the proportions of the art to be hung, tape the pieces to the wall and rearrange them until you get a look you love. When I am installing artwork, I lay the work out on the floor against the wall I am hanging on. This gives me a feel for the placement. Symmetrical displays of an even number of pieces - which are evenly spaced - is the easiest look to create. Asymmetrical displays work best if the pieces are of different sizes, shapes, or colors.

You can also use large "unconventional" pieces to create a designer look. In model homes I have used iron gates, folding screens, antique doors, huge tapestries, and even a Kimono or a gorgeous fabric stretched onto a frame. Use your creativity and you will be amazed at the results.

Here's a budget option that looks great: Buy a poster of one of your favorite works of art - a VanGogh, Monet, Picasso, Warhol, or whatever you love. Cut the poster into four equal sections and take it to the local copy shop and have it blown up. Frame each section of your masterpiece in ready made or Lucite frames and hang them at equal intervals. Don't be surprised when friends and relatives ask where you purchased your artwork!

Mirrors are another inexpensive way to add a designer touch to a wall. You'll find mirrors in every size and shape. Try a large mirror in a beautiful frame in an entry way, in the dining room, or over the fireplace. You can also incorporate mirrors into your groupings or create a grouping of several mirrors. Consider adding a wall shelf or sconce for added flair.

Once Upon A Potshelf
Commonly found in new homes, potshelves present a variety of decorating challenges. These are the recessed areas in a wall, often located at the top of a doorway. Many homeowners have a tendency to place items that are much too small in these areas. To fill the space, try using large pots mixed with urns and silk plants. Plaster columns are another option. Pottery World has a large selection. You may also want to incorporate baskets to add color and texture.

Not just for plants, potshelves can be used as a display area for collectibles, antiques, sports memorabilia, or old family toys. Experiment with this space and eventually you'll come up with the right look.

If you want to be really dramatic, you can paint the recessed area of potshelves in a contrasting color, then place one or two objects on display. Remember, you don't have to set items "straight on." Try tilting or even mounting objects to the wall above the shelf.

Regardless of the type of home you purchase, the key to success in planning your wall decor is scale. The bigger the wall, the larger your artwork must be. Properly placed artwork should become the focal point of the room. To make an impact as such, the scale of each piece or grouping must be correct. When it comes to wall decor in today's new homes, the best advice is to think big. Do so, and you'll surely create a look that's picture perfect.