Artistic surroundings promote inspiration and creativity, joy and wonder. Without art, the human-created world becomes grey and industrious, cold and closed. Art allows us to think about ourselves in new ways and experience what other animals cannot. With such importance, why should we wait for a trip to the art gallery or museum to feel the positive effects? Let’s bring uplifting art into our homes in the form of enthralling paintings, extraordinary sculptures, and intriguing collectables to enrich and reshape our everyday lives. Take these two youthful home interiors for example, where a peppering of colourful art instils fresh fascination, vibrant energy, and a sense of child-like fun.
In this 270 square metre Art Residence in Xian, China, the living room is punctuated with modern artistic elements that brings subtle decor to life. A detailed living room chandelier design adds a classic core.
A Keith Haring throw pillow adds a fun pop of contrasting colour to the blue L-shaped sofa.
A Mickey Mouse inspired sculpture ornaments a unique chest of drawers by the sofa. Its ombre finish delivers an uplifting flicker of pastel to the glossy black unit.
Abstract pattern creates movement through the centre of the space in the form of a large living room rug. Its blue and white colourway perfectly complements the blue modern sofa with its clean white edge piping.
The modern coffee table is home to Mikki by Hikari Shimoda. This large and lively flocked resin character infuses a blast of colour and whimsey that evokes emotions of childhood.
A colourful “J'aime la vie” accent cushion proclaims “I love life”, which incidentally was also the title of the winning Eurovision song contest entry for Belgium in 1986, by Sandra Kim.
Pinocchio artwork is displayed on a punchy green sideboard. The largest of the collection is the Mighty Jaxx Supersized A Wood Awakening figurine, created by French designer Juce Gace.
Smaller figurines in alternative colourways make a bright group in front of a coordinating, framed Pinocchio print.
Colour is quietened in the kitchen and diner spaces, where an air of restrained formality takes over. Here, a round dining table is encircled by plain black upholstered dining chairs, and lighting is tucked away secretly into the ceiling.
The upholstered dining chairs are brightened by a polished chrome framework, which ties in with a set of unique kitchen bar stools behind.
The chrome kitchen bar stools look like liquid mercury with a fluid, freeform silhouette.
Grey and white gloss kitchen cabinets build a sleek backdrop that reflects light from the kitchen and dining room windows.
Sculptural monochrome vases, a silver decorative tray and a unique candle are gathered in eye-catching adornment of the simple kitchen island. The remainder of the kitchen countertop remains blank and minimalist, with all appliances concealed below in the base cabinets.
A sleepy beige, grey, and wood bedroom decor scheme becomes charged with the energy of a boldly black and white chequered throw and pillow set. Linen covered wall panels make up the headboard, whilst a wooden soffit provides a practical mount for overhead lighting.
A glass wall divides the bedroom sleeping space from the dressing area.
The second bedroom holds another calming beige, grey and wood palette, which this time is enlivened by a punchy floral bedspread.
On the bedside table, a playful Mickey Mouse inspired figurine introduces a translucent pink accent.
The modern side table complements the lively figurine with a magical iridescent quality.
Built-in storage cabinets build a neat perimeter around the bedroom, which match the aesthetic of fitted units in the living room and bathroom areas to achieve a cohesive flow.
Our second example of an art lover’s home is also an appreciation of spectacular designer furniture. The large, modular sofa maintains a neutral presence under simple white upholstery that allows the smaller pieces in the room to shine.
Black window frames starkly define the edges of the living room's panoramic view, like a framed painting.
A dashing blue lounge chair swoops in alongside the sofa, where it is positioned to enjoy the outer view rather than what’s on the projector.
A split media shelf is decorated with a modern planter that paints a crisp black focal point.
The dark planter is balanced by a black floor lamp on the opposite side of the sofa arrangement. Along with a statement red lounge chair, the lamp makes up a welcoming reading area.
Illuminated bookshelves await a library of tomes, whilst playing host to prized superhero decor.
A huge structural column and two narrow partition walls divide the living room from a semi-open plan home office space.
In the neighbouring dining room, it’s a bright red dining table that demands attention.
Designer wooden dining chairs lightly accompany the colourful rectangle dining table.
A minimalistic kitchen design fades lightly into the background of the eating area.
mark a small kitchen peninsula.
White base cabinets run behind a second structural column and another narrow partition.
A shelf has been constructed between the pillars of the home office, both to provide a prominent place for decoration and to strengthen the segregation of space. A handmade vase fills the breach.
Black and white wall art makes a bold welcoming statement inside the home office area.
shelving runs toward the wall art at different lengths in a secondary burst of creative energy.
A unique desk commands the floor.
LED strips brighten the bookshelves.
Just off the home office, another unique table design serves as both a meeting area and a formal dining spot.
is displayed on a bespoke base shelf that wraps around from the kitchen.
An assortment of stylish chairs surround the table.
Abstract art colours the wall.
