11 Ways Wirework Can Lighten Up Your Decor

Wirework has long been a staple feature in our homes, especially in the form of storage. But in recent years it’s taken on new purposes and shapes, and has been stepping out in bold colors. From a witty take on ornate lighting to graphic wall art, these ideas will help you make the most of this versatile material.

1. Create the illusion of space. If you have either a small space or a great view, as here, wirework can be your friend. Essentially see-through, it will keep your room visually clutter-free and let you enjoy a view of the room or landscape beyond unimpeded. Choose wirework in the form of chairs, such as those by Harry Bertoia, or a table base, as in this home office.


2. Go for glam. The trend for warm metals continues apace, with gold shining through this season. Light and simple, wirework is a great way to dip your toe into the look. This gold-colored side table works beautifully with the white bathtub and glorious marble floor and wall panel.


3. Take it outside. Wirework doesn’t necessarily mean straight lines and harsh angles. These lacy wire chairs sit perfectly in this garden, mimicking the curved lines found in nature and keeping to the space’s soft feel. Add a couple of cushions for comfort and an archway for a dreamy day outside.


4. Brighten up. Wirework is traditionally metallic gray, but to introduce a brighter note, try some of the increasing number of colorful creations now available. From hot neons to pretty pastels, colors adorn everything from wire candlesticks to animal heads to pared-down pendant lights, like these. Try combining different colors for a lively look.


5. Accessorize away. Wirework isn’t just for storage and furniture; it can also work beautifully as simple wall art. Wire typography, portraits, animals and abstract or geometric shapes can be used in place of paintings and photos, and will tie in nicely with any other wire elements in the room.


6. Opt for mobile storage. Wire storage is less clunky-looking than closed storage and is often lighter to carry, which is handy for toting around laundry as well as carrying tools and toys.

If you’re able to fix your wire storage to a wall, it will keep things at an accessible height and make cleaning the floor below easier. Try hanging the baskets on hooks so they can be lifted off and you can easily transport the contents to a desk or another room when necessary.


7. Play on tradition. Wirework can be used to create all kinds of forms for a witty take on traditional pieces. In this room it’s been used to re-create two classics: The ornate chandelier takes center stage, but also notice the simplified mantel clock. Frank Gehry’s Wiggle side chair and the ridged paneling tie in with the fine-lines motif.

Curious about the design of the Wiggle chair? Read all about it


8. Make a colorful display. One bonus of wire storage is that it allows you to see what’s inside, which means not only can you access your stuff more easily, but the items themselves can become part of your decor. Try placing a few baskets against a plain background and fill them with colorful things — children’s toys, bold bathroom towels or even fruits and vegetables.


9. Use it in place of traditional materials. We’re used to seeing wooden banisters replaced with glass, but why not try wirework? Like glass, it allows light to come through, but it also adds texture and an industrial edge to a simple scheme. If this is a little too much wirework for your taste, try using a panel inside a closet door for hanging jewelry, or even one in the kitchen for hanging small utensils.


10. Soften the look. Wirework isn’t always sturdy — it can look delicate, as these contemporary floor lamps demonstrate. The dark color grounds the room, and because the shades look like loosely woven fabric and echo the shape of the woven baskets, they help create a cohesive natural look.


11. Make it multitask. The wire basket pictured here is good for storage and styling the room, but it can be made to work harder. Flip a piece like this upside down, and you’ve cleverly created extra surface area — perfect for bags, books, cups and even seating if it’s sturdy enough.

Tell us: Have you used wirework furniture or accessories in your home? Share your tips in the Comments.

More: Master the Metallic Mix of Gold and Silver

URL: 11 Ways Wirework Can Lighten Up Your Decor http://www.decor-ideas.org/cases-view-id-26809.html