Hot new design trend turns ordinary objects into extraordinary treasures
By Melissa Borderding
THE ERICKSON TRIBUNE
Joye Satterfield
admits that her grandfather, a steam-engine driver, might not know what to make of her home. Antique railroad lanterns that once lit the tracks of the Delaware-Hudson line sit prominently in her living room. In the den, industrial locks and keys that her grandfather would have used in everyday work are displayed like art on the walls.
“I can just hear my grandfather now: ‘Lanterns in the living room?’ I mean, that just wasn’t done.” However, by using a little creativity, Joye has managed to turn those unlikely objects into striking art pieces.
Her home at Sedgebrook reflects a growing design trend: using “found objects” to create a space that is at once whimsical, unique, and full of personal meaning.
Art from everyday objects
A “found object” can be just about anything that is special to you, explains Joseph Jania, custom interiors coordinator at Sedgebrook. A graduate of Chicago’s own Harrington Institute of Interior Design and an experienced designer, Joseph has helped hundreds of Sedgebrook community members customize and design their homes. An oldfashioned flatiron, a musical instrument, even a bicycle wheel can become an art piece when displayed right.
By adding that ordinary piece to your everyday living space, you can give that object, as well as your home, new life.
Get the look without breaking the bank
“Found objects” are a great way to add an extra splash of character to your home or even shake up your entire design theme without investing a lot of money.
“The look is fashionable and flexible, relying more on accessories than architecture,” says Better Homes and Gardens. To get the look, the top design magazine recommends drawing from your own talents and interests. Collect objects that mean something to you. Take risks with your design, but also remember that you will have to look at that object every day.