Bring the beach inside with big beach photos
It can help an urban space connect with nature. Getting tired of your high-rise condo or fourth-floor walk up? A great big framed beach photo brings a bit of the coast to you. There’s no need to go overboard with beachy decor — the contrast of one big element (like the art shown here) within a sleek, chic apartment is part of the appeal. Art: Gray Malin photography
It can create a focal point on a lofty wall. Loft-height ceilings call for art with super-sized proportions. But choosing artwork on such a scale is challenging: How do you know you won’t get tired of it? A beach photograph has a few points going for it, including the versatility of sky-sea-and-sand colors (which go with just about everything) and the popular appeal of the subject, which means it should be easy to get the other members of your household on board. Art: Clic Gallery, New York
. It adds color to neutral spaces. The bold turquoise waters and colorful dots of people on the shore make beach photography stand out beautifully against a neutral wall, making it a highlight of an all-neutral space. Here, a vibrant beach photograph brings a splash of color to a sophisticated putty gray and black kitchen. Art: Aquabumps Beach Photograohy
A big beach photo is a mood booster. There’s no denying that gazing at a beach scene lifts the spirits. A bright print by photographer Max Wanger brings a happy, laid-back mood to this dining space, whose soft gray walls and warm-toned kilim-style rug complete the picture. Art: Max Wanger photography
It works well in multiples too. If you like the look of a big beach photo but want to rein in the budget a bit, consider hanging two works by the same photographer (and preferably from the same series of photos) side by side. Choosing a pair of medium-size photos can cut framing costs, since you can skip more expensive custom framing and get something ready-made instead. Art: Christian Chaize
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