Artwork has the potential to completely transform a space—inside or outside your home.
Art can add depth, dimension, and personality to any room. An intriguing piece of art can also act as a window into the personality of its inhabitants. Whether it’s a piece collected during your travels, or art that has been passed down from generations past, each piece tells a bit of your story.
Art can also serve as an extension of interior design—an already well- designed room can be elevated by the addition of a painting or sculpture. Artwork can serve as the piece de résistance or the crowning jewel.
We look at two homes belonging to art enthusiasts. The first takes a more minimal approach, while the second is decidedly maximalist. Both exude beauty and personality, and may just inspire you to bring more artwork into your home.
The Minimalist
Natale Polinko and her husband, Michael Murray, share their home in downtown Asheville, North Carolina, with daughters Bergen, age 13, and Athena, age 11, and Reggie, the cat. Since moving into the space three years ago, they have transformed the house into a home that reflects their personality and artistic perspective.
Situated in the Grove Park neighborhood, the renovated home retains its authentic charm, complete with original moldings and hardwood floors. The walls have been painted with warm and saturated hues that create a backdrop for their artwork—each piece receiving room to breathe and shine.
As art enthusiasts, their collection continues to grow and evolve. Since moving to Asheville in 2004, they have been drawn to works by modern, local artists. Natale explains, “Most works were stumbled upon versus sought out.” Sleek and modern fixtures are found in the bathrooms.
Works by Asheville artists Adam Strange, Kurt Thaesler, Kyle Sherard, Stephen Lange, Julie Armbruster, and Jonas Gerard, grace the walls.
The couple also acquires small works or objects during travels—the piece of coral on the mantle was retrieved on a family trip to the Caribbean.
The stunning kitchen, featured on the cover of the Fall/Winter 2015 issue of NEST Magazine, is another space where the family chose to highlight local artisans. A complete renovation exposed a portion of the original brick, and lends a bit of juxtaposition against the sleek, modern finishes.
The custom cabinets were created by local craftsman Tom Kirschbaum, who finished them with his own blend of custom gray paint.
The barstools that sit below the quartzite counters are by local blacksmith Kelly Prestwood of Matrix Metalworks, who also created the dining table and console in the entryway. At each glance, the house is brimming with local art and style that exemplifies the family’s personality.
Check back tomorrow when we share a Maximalist’s take on art in the home!