Creative Displays

Create a Collage

Simple collections, thoughtfully displayed, become art installations and focal points throughout the home. Industrial items are juxtaposed with the unabashedly feminine, travel souvenirs are grouped together for the feel of a far-flung bazaar, and even rusty old tools become a stylized collage.

Everyday Art

In the kitchen, citrus walls and white cabinetry add a nostalgic feel to neat groupings of colorful, useful items. Salvaged metal drawers keep small wares accessible but out of view.

Perfect Chemistry

A rack of 24 test tubes is repurposed as a centerpiece. The glass vials contain elegant lisianthus blooms and fragrant rose geranium leaves plucked fresh from the garden.

Salvage Chic

Originally a pocket door, this headboard got a dreamy update with bright white paint, decorative molding, and delicate sconces that cast a soft light.

Global Treasures

Souvenirs and found art--including an Indian mirrored shirt, a Thai horse puppet, a Oaxacan rattle, and framed moths--share space on a persimmon-colored wall.

Visual Aides

Like a clothesline of ideas, three 18-foot cables on the wall of an artist's studio hold previous designs and bits of inspiration to spur the creative process.

Tool Time

"Girly macho" is how one could describe graphic and playful juxtaposition of rusted vintage tools mounted on pink pegboard in a garage turned workshop.

Sweet Spots

A lipstick red wall sets off black-and-white family photos on a living room table. Handmade valentines dangle from a picture rail.

Text by Jessica Battilana