Houzz Call: Show Us Your (Functional?) Art
After having been renters in the San Francisco Bay Area for several years, my husband and I are now the happy owners of a house. As new homeowners, we’ve found that one of the most exciting things has been adding personality to our rooms. And what better way to do that than with art? But ours is a humble abode, and space is limited. We have a few paintings on the wall and, of course, our family photos. But then I started thinking, why can’t everyday objects double as artistic statement pieces? The answer is: They can.
Homeowners: Post a picture of your favorite artwork in your home. Does it have a practical, everyday function, or is its main purpose providing pleasure?
Professionals: Have you integrated any standout pieces of art in your designs? Please share your photos and experiences.
This mosaic surfboard doubling as a shower is a great idea if you surf, have a pool or live close to the beach. Besides being a decorative addition to the yard, it makes mud tracks and the stench of chlorine in the house things of the past.
Bonus: You could probably wash your horse here as well.
Many book covers are beautifully designed pieces of graphic art. If you’re an avid reader, you can get pleasure from seeing your favorite volumes on display on shallow ledges such as the ones above. Arranged like this, the books don’t overwhelm the room, and you can change them out whenever you like.
Short on space? Stacking large hardcover volumes so they function as a side table is a fun way to double up. And they can make great conversation starters when you entertain. Just be sure to put out coasters for drinks.
See more ideas for displaying books as art
My husband and I are constantly working on our outdoor spaces. We’ve talked about adding a rocking chair to the front porch and a swing bench on the back patio, and the idea of a hammock has come up on more than one occasion.
This sculptural work is a real piece of outdoor furniture on the campus of the Frank Lloyd Wright School of Architecture in Arizona. Time to start rethinking that hammock!
Read more about this innovative design
The first piece of furniture my husband and I bought for our new home was a wine credenza. Fine wine, after all, is like fine art, and they don’t call it craft beer for nothing.
If you’re a wine connoisseur at any level, your dream may be to have a walk-in wine cellar. Masters of mixology may fancy a dedicated minibar. But for the space-conscious, a creative cocktail cart can double as an artistic statement and a centerpiece at any party.
See other practical home bars
A chalkboard table like this is a great way to display a buffet and and add a personal artful touch. Once the food is gone, leave the chalk out and have guests sign the table as a kind of guest book (remember to take a picture of all the love notes before erasing).
DIY: Make Your Own Chalkboard Paint
Your Turn
Homeowners: What’s your favorite piece of art in your home? Share your pictures and stories with us.
Professionals: We want to hear how art has played a part in any of your designs.
More: Collect With Confidence: An Art-Buying Guide for Beginners
