Decorating for Office Spaces | Decorating Commercial Spaces with Landscape Photography
Landscape and nature photography can create a calming and relaxing feel to your office. Studies have shown that viewing natural landscapes and outdoor scenery, can help reduce stress, provide physical health benefits, and lead to a more peaceful work environment. Research has also shown that exposure to nature has a positive effect on mental health and can lead to increased productivity and creativity.
Additionally, landscape and nature photography can improve the overall aesthetic appeal of your office space. By incorporating prints of stunning natural landscapes, you can add a touch of warmth, beauty, and elegance to your space. The colors and textures of nature scenes can create an attractive space that is inviting and shifts how the mind thinks and works through challenges. Lastly, finding images that your employees can connect to because they've been there or know the location can bring them back to a personal memory and create a connection to the image and the space.
Tip #1: Choose the Right Images
The first step to incorporating landscape and nature photography into your office space is to choose the right images. Consider selecting images that showcase the beauty and diversity of the natural world to give those around it short escape to a relaxing, space where they can reset their mind and be ready to create and innovate. Additionally, consider the color scheme of your office space and choose photographs that complement the overall design.
Think about what images might relate to the mission and vision of your organization. Also consider that by displaying images of the natural world, you can help raise awareness about the importance of protecting and preserving our environment. This can help highlight your business as being socially responsible and environmentally conscious which can help attract and retain clients and employees who share similar values.
Tip #2: Choosing Your Image Display
When using landscape and nature photography, consider displaying the fine art print in a way that highlights your office space from an aesthetic perspective. There are a few different display options that we'll discuss here.
Framed Prints
Framed prints are a classic way to display your fine art print and add a traditional, elegant touch to your office space. Wooden frames can add warmth and texture to the print and space, while unframed metal or acrylic images add a more contemporary look. Select frames that complement your image as well as the surrounding decor and help your image stand out from the wall it's placed on.
While paper prints require a frame, liner and glass, metal and acrylic prints can be displayed with or without a frame depending on the design and inspiration you are looking to bring to your office space.
Metal Prints
Metal prints create a glossy and vibrant effect that creates a stunning showcase for your selected image. The infusion of the dye into the metal creates an image with unsurpassed brilliance and vibrancy that gives a contemporary, sleek look without a frame. Metal prints are a great option in a commercial space due to their ease of cleaning and resistance to scratches and water damage.
Acrylic Prints
While we say 'acrylic prints' the image is actually printed on paper with an acrylic face mount placed over the image. Acrylic prints are archival grade as they encapsulate the image and provides 99% UV protection to help preserve the image for generations. For this reason, acrylic prints are a great option if you'll be displaying your fine art print in direct sunlight. Acrylic prints are known for their 3D-like effect, which can create a sense of depth and dimensionality in your office space. Paired with a wooden Roma Moulding frame, acrylic prints provide a warm, classic, and luxurious look for your office space that's sure to make an impression on employees as well as clients.
Tip #3: Choose the Right Size
Choosing the right size for your landscape and nature photography fine art print is important. Consider the size of your office space and the placement of the print. The purpose of the print should also be considered when determining the size. For example, if the print is intended to be the focal point of a room, a larger size would be more appropriate while a print that is too small may get lost in a large space.
Consider the distance from which the fine art print will be viewed as well. Larger prints can be viewed from a further distance, making them a good choice for large, open spaces. The orientation of the print should also be considered. For example, a horizontal print may work well above a sofa or conference room table, while a vertical print may be better suited for a tall, narrow wall like an entry way or staircase landing.
Before making a final decision on the size of the print, it can be helpful to have a mock up done. Chris Byrne Photography provides mock up and design services to help you chose the right print, size, and framing option.
Tip #4: Lighting and Placement
Proper lighting is important for showcasing fine art prints and, done optimally, it can enhance the colors and details of the photograph, creating a more immersive experience. You'll want to attempt to counter any harsh overhead lighting that may create unwanted glare or shadows. The best option is soft, ambient lighting that highlights the print without overpowering it. You can achieve this with track lighting or wall-mounted fixtures. Additionally, consider using natural light from windows or skylights. If you're hanging the fine art print in a space where it will be in direct sunlight consider a UV protected acrylic print for longevity.
Placement is just as important as lighting when it comes to displaying fine art prints. Consider the size and orientation of the print, as well as the space in which it will be displayed. For example, a large, horizontal print may work well above a couch or conference table, while a smaller, vertical print may be more appropriate in a hallway or entryway. Be sure to hang the print at eye level, so that it can be easily viewed and appreciated.
Incorporating landscape and nature photography into office spaces has numerous benefits, including reducing stress and increasing productivity, improving mood and morale, and enhancing the overall aesthetic of the space. By choosing the right size and print material, and experimenting with lighting and placement, you can create a stunning display that adds visual interest and promotes a calming and inspiring environment. Nature and landscape photography has the power to transport viewers to another place and time, offering a moment of escape and tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle of the workday. Whether in a conference room, hallway, or reception area, landscape and nature photography is a beautiful and impactful addition to any office space.