Propped: When Not to Hang
Kit Pollard
November 12, 2010
I'm a design and food-obsessed freelance writer and market research analyst, and a stay-at-home mom.
I'm a design and food-obsessed freelance writer and market research analyst, and... More
It's not new, but I'm seeing it everywhere: people forgoing hammer and nails and instead, simply propping their home decor up against walls.
In addition to being the perfect lazy man's decorating technique (no measuring! no hammering! no holes in the walls!), I find propping immensely visually appealing. It could look unfinished, but when done correctly, propped items add a touch of casual sophistication to a space similar to what a loosely draped scarf adds to an outfit.
Check out these examples of propping done right and please add your own favorites:
In addition to being the perfect lazy man's decorating technique (no measuring! no hammering! no holes in the walls!), I find propping immensely visually appealing. It could look unfinished, but when done correctly, propped items add a touch of casual sophistication to a space similar to what a loosely draped scarf adds to an outfit.
Check out these examples of propping done right and please add your own favorites:
The propped mantle-on-the-mirror is a classic—and with good reason. I like this version, especially, with its neutral colors and double mirrors.
If propping art on the mantle is classic, propping in the fireplace is original and fantastic. What a great way to add interest. I like the casual prop, especially, for its contrast to the minimal lines of this space.
A mirror hung ON a propped door—that is forethought and great use of reclaimed materials.
Speaking of vintage materials, I love this use of propped doors as a headboard (though to do this right, a casual prop wouldn't be enough—you'd need to make sure it's sturdy).
Propped artwork is a great addition to vignettes. This painting has much more impact propped next to the gorgeous green of the lamp than it would hanging on most walls.
A riddling rack is a cool way to store wine (and just a cool addition to a space, even if the temperature's not right for actual wine storage). And they always look great propped up.
This fantastic framed map begs to be looked at up close. And since it's propped, no one will have to pull it off the wall.
In her bedroom in the Kips Bay Show House, Charlotte Moss propped one single picture (on the left), while hanging many more, creating a look that's layered and opulent.
In contrast to the feminine, extravagant space above, these simply framed black and white photographs look clean and interesting with layered propping.
And these look positively minimal, but not austere.
While mirrors and art are natural items to prop, even softer pieces like these baskets work.
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I just hung a beautiful large plastic framed mirror from Home Goods over my mantel. 1 month later it crashed and broke the tile on the floor and other things on the mantel. I'd love to put up the same mirror but feel it would do the same thing since the frame is plastic. But...how do you prop a heavy mirror on the mantel and not have it fall off? Don't think I have enough liability insurance to cover a death by mirror in my home!:)