Mixing Original Art and Interior Design

Embracing Your Artsy Side: How Original Art Elevates Our Interior Designs

At Lisa Gilmore Design, we're like kids in a candy store when it comes to choosing art for our interior designs! Original art isn't just a decor choice for us; it's the cherry on top, adding pizzazz and personality to our luxurious designs.

Art is like the fairy godmother of our design dreams, sprinkling color and charm wherever it lands. Whether it's a funky sculpture or a timeless painting, each piece tells a story and brings our clients' spaces to life.

Art in Interior Design Sprinkles Color and Personality

We sprinkle color like confetti, and original art? It's our secret sauce for an extra pop! Not only does it splash color into a room, but it also whispers tales of the homeowner's vibe and style. 

Dive into these seven Lisa Gilmore Design projects and see how art waves its magic wand over each space!

Anything Can Be Art in Interior Design

This client had an impressive art collection that we were thrilled to use in our design, along with a few pieces we collaborated in adding from the Liz Lidgett Gallery in Iowa.

photo: Lisa Gilmore Design

And who says art has to hang on walls? In the den, we turned heads with a vintage Hermes scarf framed in a window, adding whimsy and style without taking up precious wall space. And let's not forget the golden rule of window art: get the scale just right and secure it like your design depends on it (because it does!).

photo: Lisa Gilmore Design

Photography Art in Interior Design

In another home, we waved goodbye to heavy Tuscan vibes and welcomed the lightness of ocean photography. Esther McFarland's stunning film photos bring the serenity of the sea into the living room, creating a tranquil oasis for our clients to unwind and dream.

photo: Lisa Gilmore Design

And the formal living room’s gallery wall, filled with original art and reproductions, is a starting point for great conversations.

photo: Lisa Gilmore Design

Mural Office Wall

Who says work-from-home spaces have to be boring? Not us! We jazzed up a waterfront office with a bold mural by Chad Mize, channeling tropical vibes and endless inspiration. 

We took the art vibe even further by selecting this amazing hand-drawn fabric for the drapery. 

Because when your office feels like a vacation destination, Mondays aren't so bad after all!

photo: Lisa Gilmore Design

Drapery Doubles as Art in Waterfront Interior Design

Forget plain old curtains; we like our drapes to make a statement! In this project, hand-painted drapes by Porter Teleo transformed the room into a gallery-worthy space.

photo: Lisa Gilmore Design

And the water-inspired art piece by Erin McIntosh tied the whole entry together in a stroke of genius. (Sourced through St. Petersburg’s ARTicles / Leslie Curran Gallery)

photo: Lisa Gilmore Design

The Show-Stopping Water Lily Painting

In another coastal-inspired haven, a custom sofa and pillows found their perfect match in a breathtaking water lily painting by Lilia Orlova-Holmes. It's like they were destined to be together, creating a serene oasis that's as calming as a day at the beach.

Check out this post to see another work of art in this home– a vintage chest in the den that Lisa had hand-painted locally.

photo: Lisa Gilmore Design

Vibrant, Art-Inspired Interior Design

Color lovers, rejoice! In a vibrant condo project, original art pieces by Erin McIntosh (left) and St. Petersburg’s Babbette Herschberger (below) set the stage for a creative office space and a lively living room.

photo: Lisa Gilmore Design

With their bold and bright shapes, these artworks bring joy and energy to the home, making it a true reflection of its fun-loving owners. Their two Australian labradoodles seem to be big fans of Babbette’s art in the living room as well.

photo: Lisa Gilmore Design

Ashley Longshore Art Welcomes Visitors

At the entrance of this South Tampa home, Ashley Longshore's hot pink masterpiece steals the show, greeting guests with a burst of color and personality.

photo: Lisa Gilmore Design

And that's just the beginning; Danish artist Davina Shefet art piece round out the design, making every corner a delightful surprise.

photo: Lisa Gilmore Design

FAQs: Everything You Want to Know About Art in Interior Design

1. What kind of art do interior designers like?

Interior designers have a soft spot for all sorts of art! Whether it's classic paintings that transport you to another era or funky sculptures that add a touch of whimsy, there's something for every design palette. From traditional to avant-garde, the art chosen contributes to the vibe and personality of the space. 

Lisa’s motto is that art doesn’t have to perfectly match their interior; art can stand on it's own and work wonderfully!

2. Where do interior designers source art?

Interior designers are like treasure hunters, scouring art galleries, online marketplaces, and artisan markets for the perfect pieces. We might stumble upon hidden gems in antique shops or strike gold with original creations from talented artists. Sometimes, we even weave our magic to commission custom artwork that's as unique as the space itself!

3. Why is art important in interior design?

Art isn't just for walls—it's the secret ingredient that adds flavor to a design cocktail! It's like the cherry on top, sparking joy, igniting conversation, and setting the mood. Art injects soul into spaces, telling stories and reflecting personalities. It's the glue that binds colors, textures, and vibes, creating a masterpiece that feels like home.

To see more of our love for art, check out our Instagram reel from the pop-up event we recently hosted with our friend and Tampa painter Stephanie Ong. 

To see our projects and find ideas for adding liveable glamour to your home, sign up for our newsletter.

Lisa Gilmore Design is a luxury interior design firm based in Tampa Bay, Florida providing white-glove service for busy professionals. We design and manage renovations and new home construction projects from consultation to reveal. Lisa Gilmore Design serves homeowners in St. Petersburg,  Clearwater, South Tampa, Hyde Park, and worldwide. 

St. Petersburg Florida Home Gets a New Floor Plan

Before and After: St. Petersburg Florida Home Renovation

When it comes to turning a house into a dream home, sometimes you need more than just a great design. You need a complete overhaul! That’s exactly what this charming St. Petersburg, Florida home needed to fit this family’s unique vibe.

We didn’t just give this place a facelift; we gave it a whole new identity! The Lisa Gilmore Design team waved their magic wand and redesigned everything, from the exterior to the interior, creating a fabulous new floor plan. 

We added a full laundry room, a powder room, and a music lounge to the already cozy 3-bedroom, 2-bath home. The kitchen, bathrooms, home office, living room, dining area, and sitting room all got a dazzling makeover. 

Our mission? To make this home feel like a tropical getaway on a Caribbean island, perfect for relaxing and entertaining.

Art, Music, and Travel-Inspired Florida Home

Everything in this St. Petersburg Florida home was handpicked with artisanal quality and uniqueness in mind. The homeowners love art, music, and travel, so we sprinkled these elements throughout the design like fairy dust.

Tropical Exterior

Before, this house was just another typical Florida home. But now? It’s a Caribbean dream!

photo: Home Exterior Before

ST PETERSBURG FLORIDA HOME EXTERIOR AFTER - LISA GILMORE DESIGN

We extended the threshold to line up with the garage, creating a wide, covered porch. The new bright white exterior with turquoise Bahama shutters pops against the blue skies and green landscaping.

Now, this revamped home boasts a picturesque driveway lined with swaying palm trees, which create a serene and inviting atmosphere. With the addition of double doors and stylish sconces, we've elevated the exterior to a whole new level of sophistication. 

LIVING ROOM BEFORE

Puerto Vallarta-Inspired Living Room

The living room used to be cozy but kind of generic. We transformed it into a vibrant haven with a custom-designed adobe-style fireplace inspired by Lisa’s visit to an art gallery in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

The new stylish side chair, sofa, and a show-stopping coffee table carved from mango wood and featuring a bone inlay add warmth and character. It’s a room that invites you to kick back and stay awhile.

photo: Living Room After

SITTING ROOM BEFORE

SITTING ROOM AFTER

LISA GILMORE DESIGN

Sitting Room Highlights Waterfront View

The sitting room’s best feature was its stunning waterfront view, so we made it the star! 

The family now gathers here for their morning meditation, surrounded by love and the memories of a coffee table built by our client’s father. It’s a tranquil, heartfelt space.

DINING ROOM BEFORE

Dining Room with Caribbean Vibe

The dining room had a country flair that just didn’t match the tropical vacation look our client wanted. Now, it’s a feast for the eyes!

Woven seagrass chairs, a deep turquoise upholstered bench, and a surfboard-inspired dining table handmade by Buckmanhaus create a warm, inviting atmosphere. The ARTO handmade cement tile flooring adds charm and elegance. Bon appétit!

photo: Dining Room After

KITCHEN BEFORE

KITCHEN AFTER

Light, Airy, and Modern Kitchen

The country vibe continued into the kitchen with stained wood cabinetry and dark countertops. That just wouldn’t do for our tropical oasis.

Now there is a harmonious blend of colors and patterns in this kitchen. The soft happy blue cabinets create a cheerful atmosphere, perfectly complemented by the timeless black and white checkered floor. The backsplash, with its intricate small rectangular stone pattern, adds a touch of visual interest. Natural stone counters offer both functionality and natural beauty. 

OFFICE BEFORE

Home Office with Mural

This home office went from utilitarian to inspirational. We recreated this space to be the perfect blend of functionality and artistic flair. This workspace is brought to life by custom elements that add a touch of personality. From the hand-painted mural created by St. Petersburg artist Chad Mize, to the vibrant drapery and custom-designed and fabricated colorful glass door, every aspect was thoughtfully designed to create an inspiring atmosphere. Creativity flows freely here!

Photo: Office After

Gold-Accented Primary Bath

The primary bathroom was once dark and uninspiring, but now it's a sleek sanctuary! Picture a white marble floor, gold hardware, and gold-accented mirrors and sconces. We even added palm wallpaper in the water closet for a pop of color and pattern. The black-and-white cement floor continues in this space, and we selected natural stone in the shower to keep the nature-inspired vibe. It's pure sophistication!

Photo: Bathroom Before

BATHROOM AFTER

LISA GILMORE DESIGN

Exquisite Blue Tile Bath

A boys’ bathroom can be quite the cautionary tale, but we turned this one into a dream! We’re obsessed with its new look. The biggest transformation happened when we swapped out the tub for a spacious shower and added a larger window to let in more natural light. The cherry on top? A handpainted vanity tile wall and the beautiful, varying shades of blue zeiliage tile in the shower. It's pure magic!

Photo: Bathroom After

Style Meets Function in Laundry Room

One of our favorite transformations in the new floor plan was the laundry room! This dreamy laundry space is the perfect mix of elegance and practicality. We jazzed it up with beautiful zeiliage tile for the backsplash and added oodles of storage to keep everything in its place. Who knew doing laundry could look this good?

Photo: Laundry Room After

Glamorous Powder Room

The new powder room in this St. Petersburg Florida home is a little slice of luxury. The LGD team created a space that exudes sophistication, complete with a marble vanity and exquisite gold fixtures. The highly textured, natural wallpaper mimics a patchwork pattern, and the distressed antique mirror hanging behind the sink? Chef’s kiss!

MUSIC LOUNGE AFTER

LISA GILMORE DESIGN

Music Lounge: A Melodic Masterpiece

For this music-loving family, we created a paradise! The lounge features the homeowner’s zebra chairs which we had restyled locally and an adobe-style bookcase to display instruments and the client’s father’s wood carving collection. But the pièce de résistance was the piano that was handpainted by Chad Mize. The crowning glory? A cow skull for a quirky twist.

One of the best parts about this home is its waterfront location. By recreating the floor plan, our clients were able to enjoy the view from many vantage points. You can view the entire project photo gallery here or check out another waterfront St. Petersburg Florida home project here.

FAQs: The 411 on a St. Petersburg Florida Home

1. Is St. Petersburg, Florida expensive to live?

Well, St. Pete isn’t the cheapest place to live, but it’s not as pricey as some of its Florida neighbors like Miami or Naples. You get a lot of bang for your buck here! Think stunning waterfront views, a buzzing arts scene, and endless sunshine. Housing costs can vary, but with a little digging, you can find something that suits your budget. Plus, the vibrant lifestyle and beautiful surroundings make it worth every penny!

2. What’s special about St. Petersburg, Florida?

Oh, where do we start? St. Pete is like Florida’s little gem! It’s famous for its stunning beaches with soft, white sand and crystal-clear waters. The city is a paradise for art lovers with the Salvador Dalí Museum and a thriving local art scene. You’ll find funky murals, lively festivals, and outdoor markets. And let’s not forget the amazing restaurants, charming downtown, and the fact that it’s known as the Sunshine City – because who doesn’t love endless sunshine?

3. What part of St. Petersburg, Florida is best?

Choosing the best part of St. Pete is like picking your favorite ice cream flavor – it depends on what you love! For beach lovers, you can’t beat the laid-back vibe of the St. Pete Beach area. If you’re into arts and culture, downtown St. Pete is a must with its galleries, cafes, and waterfront parks. Historic Old Northeast offers charming, tree-lined streets and beautiful bungalows. Each neighborhood has its own unique charm, so you really can’t go wrong!

To get more tips, see our projects, and find ideas for adding liveable glamour to your home, follow me on Instagram or sign up for our newsletter.

An interior design firm based in Tampa Bay, Florida, Lisa Gilmore Design provides luxury design services to busy professionals. We are a full-service design firm that creates one-of-a-kind spaces through custom designs, artisan-crafted pieces, and antique elements. Lisa Gilmore Design serves homeowners in Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Hyde Park, and South Tampa.

1920s House Style Gets an Update

Let’s Refresh This 1920s House Style!

When our client relocated to Florida, she fell in love with a charming 1200-square-foot bungalow. However, the 1920s house’s style didn’t quite align with hers.

The two-bedroom, one-bath St. Petersburg craftsman needed an update before our art-collecting and antique-loving client could feel at home. Cue the Lisa Gilmore Design team, tasked with revamping the living room, dining room, study/den, and kitchen nook of her Historic Old Northeast home built in 1925.

Before and After: Transformed 1920s House Style

Older homes boast character, but they don't have to be stuck in the past. Witness how we revitalized this century-old gem.

photo: Living room Before

1920s HOUSE LIVING ROOM AFTER - LISA GILMORE DESIGN

Art-Inspired Living Room

Lisa and our senior designer Nicole were inspired by the client’s bold and fun art collection. We played off the art’s bright colors by selecting this curved sofa in a custom hot-pink fabric. There is an underlying weave of orange in the fabric, so the sofa can appear to be a different color from different spots in the room. We also added pops of pink throughout the room and chose a crisp white for the walls that wouldn’t compete with the bright colors. 

1920s House Style Elevated with Reupholstered Dining Chairs

photo: Dining room Before

1920s HOUSE DINING ROOM AFTER - LISA GILMORE DESIGN

It’s hard to say whether the highlight of this room is the textured wallpaper on the ceiling or the stunning dining chairs. We breathed new life into the client’s existing dining chairs and had them reupholstered in a luscious, raspberry velvet fabric on one side and a cheerful blue wave pattern on the other. And, do you spy the antique hutch along the wall? That was an existing piece from the homeowner as well.

Work-from-Home Office Jewel Box

Working from home has become standard practice now. And that means we can say goodbye to cubicles and fluorescent lights and hello to creativity-inspiring design. Lisa’s goal from the start was to transform this space into a cozy jewel box for this work-from-home client. 

photo: Office Before

1920s HOME OFFICE AFTER - LISA GILMORE DESIGN

We transformed this space into a glamorous retreat inspired by Dorothy Draper. Picture emerald green drapery and an eye-catching built-in, both designed by Lisa. She also designed the rust-colored ottoman and had it made locally with vintage legs with claws and crystal spheres. Don’t miss the sparkle we added with a vintage French chandelier and window art, which is actually a framed vintage Hermes scarf.

Kitchen Nook Upgraded from 1920s House Style 

photo: Kitchen Nook Before

Does this space radiate happiness? The client had a dazzling chandelier in the dining room, and we knew it would play beautifully with the wallpaper and natural lighting of the nook. It creates the most beautiful iridescent glimmer at certain times of the day! 

The wallpaper is also a favorite! Its classic print with a modern take on its colorway makes the space bright, cheerful and the ideal place to have a morning coffee or great conversations with family and friends. We brought the existing built-in benches back to life with a little bit of paint,  a soft powder blue seat cushion, and fun pops of color in the pillows.

photo: Kitchen Nook After

FAQs

1. What is the style of a 1920s house?

Ah, the 1920s – a time of architectural exploration and experimentation! Imagine stepping into a time capsule where each house tells a unique story. From the cozy Craftsman cottages to the grandeur of Tudor Revival manors, 1920s homes boast an eclectic mix of styles. You'll find charming asymmetrical facades, whimsical low-pitched roofs with playful eaves, and an abundance of character that whispers tales of days gone by.

2. What were the features of a 1920s house?

Step into a 1920s house, and you're greeted by a sense of solidity and warmth. These homes were built to last, with sturdy construction featuring brick, stone, or wood siding that exudes timeless charm. Inside, it's a symphony of natural light streaming through multi-pane windows, revealing the intricate craftsmanship of hardwood floors and the cozy embrace of built-in cabinetry. It's the little details – the decorative brackets, the crown molding, the charming trim work – that make a 1920s house truly stand out.

3. What should I renovate first in an old house?

Ah, the joy of breathing new life into an old house! Start with the basics – address any structural issues and ensure essential systems like plumbing and electrical are up to par. Then, it's time to infuse a touch of modern comfort. Upgrade to energy-efficient insulation, windows, and doors to keep the coziness in and the chill out. Next, focus on the heart of the home – the kitchen and bathrooms – where a careful balance of functionality and style can work wonders. Don't forget to pay homage to the past by restoring original features and adding a splash of paint to freshen up the look. Finally, sprinkle in your own personality with thoughtful touches and curated decor, transforming your old house into a beautiful and functional home that's bursting with character and charm.

Ready to breathe new life into your 1920s house? Let Lisa Gilmore Design sprinkle some magic to honor your style and your home's rich history. And if you're itching for more vintage charm, dive into this delightful home renovation project!

To get more tips, see our projects, and find ideas for adding liveable glamour to your home, follow me on Instagram or sign up for our newsletter.

Lisa Gilmore Design is a Tampa Bay-based interior design firm offering busy professionals luxury design services. We have been named an Architectural Digest Leading Southwest Florida Designer and a Top 25 Design Florida Firm by Design + Decor. Lisa Gilmore Design has been featured in premier design publications such as Florida Design, Aspire Home, and Rue Magazine. We serve homeowners in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Hyde Park, South Tampa, and worldwide.

Custom Rugs, Pillows and More: Creating Exclusive Interior Designs

Tampa Custom Rugs and Other Custom Pieces from Lisa Gilmore Design

Ever felt like your space needs that special touch? Well, that's our jam! While some designers stick to a signature, tried-and-tested style, we're all about making each project uniquely enchanting. From custom rugs to ottomans with personality, we're here to sprinkle a little magic and exclusivity into every home.

Luxury Interior Design Begins with Pieces Like Custom Rugs

What sets our designs apart? It's the unique pieces we weave into each space. Think custom rugs, built-ins straight out of your dreams, and banquettes that redefine cozy.

Custom Rugs

Who says art belongs only on walls? Our custom rugs beg to differ! Take a peek at these beauties from our collection:

Dive into the lush greens and blues of our leopard rug, perfectly paired with striking drapery.

Feel the vibrant energy of this stripes-and-dots rug above, dancing harmoniously with bold terrazzo floors.

And oh, that leopard rug next to the fiery orange chair? It's the epitome of fierce style! We also spy custom drapery designed by Lisa as well.

Custom Ottomans

Small but mighty, ottomans are our secret weapons for adding flair to any room. Here are three stunners we've conjured up:

Dive into the serene blue hues of our smoky ottomans, echoing the color block art above the sofa.

Let the vibrant ottomans in this entry welcome you into a world of elegance and charm.

And behold the rust-colored wonder with a special surprise of antique claw feet holding crystal balls, which adds a touch of warmth to a Dorothy Draper-inspired space.

Custom Built-Ins

When it comes to wowing guests, custom built-ins steal the show:

Feast your eyes on this gorgeous vanity– handmade, hand-scraped, and stained by our carpenter. He made that weathered look using a burning technique. 

Admire the adobe-style fireplace, the perfect blend of form and function.

Marvel at the TV cabinet, designed by Lisa and made by a local carpenter, which hides the TV when not in use.

And don't miss this bold bookcase, adding pops of teal to this stylish home office.

Custom Banquettes

What's the secret to creating dining spaces that dazzle? Banquettes, of course!

Join us in the breakfast nook, where a built-in banquette frames the perfect view.

Marvel at the seamless blend of banquette and cabinetry, creating a space that feels like a warm hug.

How smart is this kitchen nook and curved banquette that makes the best use of the available space?!

Behold the navy-tufted beauty, the crowning jewel of a coastal vacation home.

It’s hard to choose what we love most about this space– the teal banquette paired with the soft happy blue wood base, the basket-weave pendant light, or the handmade cement tile floors.

Custom Pillows

We don't do boring pillows here. Each one is a work of art:

Splash some color with our vibrant accent pillows, adding life to any corner.

Let our sofa pillows tie the sofa, drapery, and ottomans together with effortless grace.

And in the primary bedroom, let these striking pillows perfectly complement the geometric wallpaper.

Bonus! Custom Drapery and Lighting

And why stop at rugs and pillows? Our custom drapery and lighting are the cherry on top:

Feast your eyes on the whimsical banana leaf chandelier above, casting a magical glow over any space.

And our custom drapery selections like these add a touch of elegance to your windows.

FAQs: Answers to Your Burning Custom Rug and Drapery Questions

1. Can you get rugs cut to size?

Absolutely! We totally get it – sometimes your space is just too unique for standard rug sizes. No worries though, getting your rug customized to fit like a glove is totally doable. Just head to a rug or carpet binder, and they can work their magic to bind the edges and make it fit your space perfectly. Whether you're decking out a cozy nook or a sprawling living room, customizing your rug ensures it's as unique as your style!

2. What type of custom rug holds up best?

When it comes to durability, wool rugs are like the superheroes of the rug world. They're naturally tough cookies, standing up to all sorts of wear and tear with ease. Plus, they're practically stain-resistant, making them perfect for those high-traffic areas where spills are bound to happen. And let's not forget – wool rugs are the epitome of luxury and timelessness, guaranteeing your custom creation stays stylish for years to come.

3. How much does it cost to have custom drapes made?

Ah, the million-dollar question – or maybe just a few hundred, depending on your fabric choice! The cost of custom drapes can vary based on factors like fabric, size, and design intricacy. While they might be a tad pricier than your off-the-shelf options, custom drapes are like the haute couture of window treatments – impeccably crafted to fit your space like a glove and elevate your style game. Trust us, the investment is totally worth it for that personalized touch and superior quality that's uniquely you. 

With made-to-order pieces, artisan craftsmanship, and a sprinkle of fairy dust, Lisa Gilmore Design turns houses into homes straight out of a storybook.

To get more tips, see our projects, and find ideas for adding liveable glamour to your home, follow me on Instagram or sign up for our newsletter.

Based in Tampa Bay, Florida, Lisa Gilmore Design is a full-service interior design firm that provides luxury design services to busy professionals. We create one-of-a-kind spaces for homeowners in Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Hyde Park, South Tampa, and worldwide.