Focus of Attention

Ashridge Bluebells Close Up May 1st 05

Draw the eye to where you want it to focus - You have your piece of furniture chosen to be a centre of attention.  Place it so that it is prominent

- so that light and tonal shading help with the focus. Avoid cluttering up this area so that there is little or no distraction

In this picture the fallen tree separates the deeper and more intense shading of the bluebells from the foreground more sparsely inhabited by flowers - it makes a statement and a pleasant one at that. The fallen tree acts as a catalyst

Hanging Pictures

IMG_0145CPictures often look better and more effective when arranged in groups rather than in isolation - unless you have a very large item which makes a statement on it's own.

Decide the appropriate area for this. For a group of pictures you will require a fairly large area of wall. Don't try to push pictures into an area too small for them - and have the effect of looking very amateurish.

Gather together a selection of pictures which you like, which have some tonal relationship with each other though not necessarily in style or subject matter.

Frames can be varied, but if a picture has been framed for many years, or is badly or cheaply framed then take it to a worthy framers and get them to help you to select a frame. I recently had some pictures framed at Graphics Plus in St Albans who are very friendly and helpful.

Don't skimp on the frame. Be generous with the size and margins, it can make an enormous difference to the finished look.

Place the pictures on the floor in front of the area where you wish to hang them and arrange them - Re-arrange them until you feel satisfied with the result. This is a job ideally for two people

Place dots on the wall behind all the pictures denoting where they are to hang, then measure out to get it exactly right.

Hang your pictures and enjoy them!!

Lit by design

IMG_0949 This is a lovely view from a casement window in Siena. It demonstrates how natural light can provide contrast in a similar way that is artificially achieved in interior settings.

Notice how the rooves offer interesting texture while being in marked contrast to the amber light of the Church.

When working on an interior we aim to provide the same interest and dynamic as is achieved so beautifully and naturally here.