This guest column is courtesy of Wells Mason, Business Development Manager for Builders FirstSource in Central Texas. Builders FirstSource is proud to be a NARI member. Sponsored by Bes Builder.

As a former gallery owner, I’ve learned there are numerous things to consider if you’re planning to remodel your home with art in mind. For instance, have you thought about lighting? Do you need additional blocking in the walls? Are you locating light switches, receptacles and thermostats so they work in conjunction with your art? With the right assistance from remodeling professionals, you can make art an integral part of your construction plans.

LIST YOUR ASSETS

“During our initial programming sessions, we always ask our clients if there are any pieces in their home that we need to pay special attention to — be it furniture or artwork. We then carefully document the pieces and incorporate them into our design solutions,” says Sara Hadden, Design Director, CG&S Design-Build in Austin.

SET THE TONE

“Colorful (or neutral) artwork often sets the tone for the color scheme of a remodeling project. So, it’s great if we can pull some colors and textures out of the artwork and repeat them again in tile, countertops or flooring,” explains Jana Valdez, Principal Interior Designer and Co-Owner of Haven Design and Construction in San Antonio.

ESTABLISH FOCAL POINTS

“Ceiling heights can also play a major role. We’ve adjusted tray ceiling heights and placements in order to correctly install chandeliers and ensure that wall art and other focal points are not hindered by low-level ceilings,” says Sunni Seifert, Senior Project Manager with CROSS, a Luxury Remodeling Firm in San Antonio.

SPF FOR ART

“Our premium window manufacturers offer several options that go above and beyond what is required by energy code to accommodate any number of priorities a customer may have for their windows — including aesthetics, acoustics, privacy, heat loss, comfort, visible light transmission and even UV light transmission which can damage art and discolor upholstery,” explains Buck Burnette, Premium Window Specialist for Builders FirstSource in Central Texas.

Whether you want to make sure your art will work in your newly remodeled home, or you’re concerned about protecting your art for the years ahead, a remodeling professional can help.