Colors, Textures, Shapes - Stonework

Texture in Design Collections

There are many reasons I chose this photograph to use in these design series.  We are looking at design strategies for your home that create the magic you love.  In this photo, we have several different design elements at work.

For the next few articles, we will revisit the same photo to get the fundamental idea we want to work with. Today, let's look at the texture in design collections.

I love the texture in anything.  My artwork is full of it.  You can see some samples at the bottom of this article.  But for now, let's talk about how using texture can help you with extra features in your home without much money.

Note in this photo the different textures in a collection.  There smooth, embossed, feathered, circular, square, triangular, shapely, long, short, round...This gives a collection some distinction. Of course. the candle has it's own particular magic :-))

The Fireplace

First of all, if you have a fireplace with brick, (or any wall with brick) you are ONE LUCKY CAMPER.  It adds so much to a room.  Any natural substance that brings the earthy, stable, grounded element into your space brings peace with it.

So if you do have any feature like that - a window sill, a wall, a shelf - use it to its max.  Don't leave it empty and lonely. :-)  And mix it up.  Who says you need to have it look the same for every season?
Winter and summer are different energies and messages.  Use them.

Look at the gorgeous strength of this stonework.  Take a minute to absorb and then I will give you some ideas of how you can incorporate that into your space without spending more than $10!

What is your favourite?   I love them all but the third from the left with all the colour and different sizes and shapes is my ultimate favourite!

How to get stonework into your space on a budget

1. Use it on one wall.  I have one in my studio and I love it!  Look - 

2. Use if on a floor...if you live in a warm climate.  If not, you can always have a neat artsy rug on top.

3. Cover a table with stonework...

4. A fireplace surround...duh

5. counter tops in the kitchen

6. bathroom sinks (especially stonework over bricks)

7. brick in the kitchen on one wall is always awesome.

Where to Get Brick on Stonework on the Cheap?

1. Try Re-Store - the Habitat for Humanity store.  Great deals.

2. Try construction sites - go to the trailer and ask for the Site manager...walk away with a sweet bundle for free.

3. Do the same for home reno's in your area.  Ask nice.  Take cookies.

You probably have a secret stash you know about.  If you have ideas please do share below.

Here is some texture work in my artwork...check out artmystory.com and ggartstudios.com   Thanks!