Words to Live By: A Little Text for Your Wall
A few choice words in your design can instruct, entertain and mystify
Words can create a mood and set a scene in a space as much as the decor itself. When used as art, words can pass along a message, evoke a feeling, or even transport you to another place. Graphics and written messages are seen so often in commercial settings to give instruction or even sell something, but we are seeing more graphic art in the home setting. The result is a modern aesthetic that adds interest to a space.
Graphic art isn't for everyone. It can be a bold and in-your-face option that requires a bit of confidence and commitment. But when done right, words used as art can be thought provoking and even mysterious.
Graphic art isn't for everyone. It can be a bold and in-your-face option that requires a bit of confidence and commitment. But when done right, words used as art can be thought provoking and even mysterious.
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This midway sign above the credenza, which looks like it came from The State Fair of Texas, creates an air of excitement in this interior. It's a fun and eclectic look that takes a bold homeowner to pull off well.
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The quirky use of the word 'left,' which is ironically to the right of the door, creates a dynamic feel in this space. These letters made great use of an awkward wall space created by the pitched ceiling.
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You don't have to go so bold as to use circus signs or neon letters. Graphic art can be a beautiful framed canvas or print of letters and numbers. The graphic art in this photo is dynamic and contrasting, adding to this room's eclectic and modern feel. It doesn't clearly make a statement, but is definitely the statement piece of the room.
by Elliott Kaufman
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You can absolutely evoke a mood and feel by designing with words. Here, a graphic featuring the word 'Love' turns an industrial brick wall into a place that feels warm and welcoming.
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by SB Architects
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| Even this bathroom gets a sense of love and tenderness from a simple display of words to a familiar song. Especially when used in a guest bathroom or bedroom, a warm sentiment like this one can make your guests feel more at home. |
by Atypical Type A
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Graphic art doesn't have to be a large statement piece. It can also be a warm handwritten letter or the handwritten lyrics of your favorite song.
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On the other hand, I also love a sense of humor. This quirky little sign is such a fun way to give guests a smile when they visit your bathroom.
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| These stainless steel letters are the statement piece of the room, in a literal sense! Perhaps the best part of the signage here is the curiosity and conversation it evokes. Don't you wonder why the homeowner chose this word? I love the mystery behind it. |
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Graphic art can also be instructional. A note on an awkward step helps avoid accidents while adding to this home's creative vibe.
Words can be powerful things. They can evoke a mood, a feel and a style. Whether subliminal or in your face, using words as art is a unique way to create character and show off your personality — without saying a word yourself.
More:
Trend Alert: Ampersands
Using Typography in Design
Sign, Sign, Everywhere a Sign
Browse accessories using letters and words
Words can be powerful things. They can evoke a mood, a feel and a style. Whether subliminal or in your face, using words as art is a unique way to create character and show off your personality — without saying a word yourself.
More:
Trend Alert: Ampersands
Using Typography in Design
Sign, Sign, Everywhere a Sign
Browse accessories using letters and words
Comments

Denise Vilim Great ideabook Beth! I love typography in design and would like to find a way to incorporate into my living space. I am going to give it some serious thought before Corinne's visit. Wouldn't it be great to have Big Tex in your entryway?!
21 months ago · Like

sanmarc1 The quirkiness of some of these really put a smile on my face and lit the lightbulb in the brain with space ideas in my own home where text could work. I'll be keeping an eye out for fun text possibilities as I shop.
21 months ago · Like
Ideabook published on Aug. 18, 2011.
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