The Beauty of Contrast: Modern Art in Traditional Rooms
Spark interest in a sedate space by offering an unexpected visual counterpoint
Whatever your taste in decoration, an element of visual contrast is a great way to make your home more interesting and personal. Something oppositional or unexpected awakens the senses.
There are many ways to introduce invigorating contrast into a space, and art is one of the best. Here are some examples where modern art breathes life into traditional rooms.
There are many ways to introduce invigorating contrast into a space, and art is one of the best. Here are some examples where modern art breathes life into traditional rooms.
In this masculine space, a bold and playful abstract painting is juxtaposed with understated linear wallpaper and carpeting.
Painting by John DiPaolo
Painting by John DiPaolo
A minimalist glowing screen and a Bubble chair — which is as much a sculpture as a piece of furniture — provide a counterpoint to traditional wood paneling here.
Chair: Bubble, Maarten de Ceulaer; LED panel: custom by Al Zaparolli
Chair: Bubble, Maarten de Ceulaer; LED panel: custom by Al Zaparolli
Bold red flowers on a black background command attention in this neutral dining room.
In this restrained classic-style space, an abstract drawing reinforces the color palette while adding movement and energy.
Print by Joan Mitchell, Susan Sheehan Gallery
Print by Joan Mitchell, Susan Sheehan Gallery
A free-form black and red kinetic sculpture is a dynamic counterpoint in this understated classic-style living room.
A large-scale painting leans against the wall of this classic-style dining room, adding a bit of the unexpected yet keeping within the neutral color palette.
Painting by Robert Kelly, John Berggruen Gallery
Painting by Robert Kelly, John Berggruen Gallery
A large digitally altered photograph adds a modern edge to this transitional room.
Ink-jet print by Filip Dujardin, Cavalier
Ink-jet print by Filip Dujardin, Cavalier
A small yet striking black and white portrait with a simple frame leans on the mantelpiece here, providing a modern focal point in an otherwise traditional room.
Photograph of Jude Law by David Bailey
More: 14 Creative Ways to Hang Art
Photograph of Jude Law by David Bailey
More: 14 Creative Ways to Hang Art
Painting by Dawn Arrowsmith, Toomey Tourell Fine Art