Bigger is better, it seems, in today’s fast-paced world. Trends in home décor are no exception. Along with the ever-expanding square footage of homes, sky-high ceilings, wide-open floor plans and super-sized windows, comes the rise of oversized artwork – one of the hottest trends in urban, contemporary design.

“Oversized images are proving to be extremely popular right out of the gate,” says Aimee Clarke, creative director for the Seattle-based art publisher, Third & Wall. “People want to make statements with the art they own, and nothing makes a statement quite like an oversized piece of art.” Today’s larger living spaces require larger accessories, including the art that graces the walls. Several print publishers have dedicated entire sections of their annual catalogs to the genre.

Custom framers, in turn, have seen an increase in oversized pieces to be framed. They’ve developed techniques unique to the genre for a custom look buyers can’t get from the big retail stores. Consumers can find the perfect oversized piece for above a couch or in a grand entryway by browsing the various art print catalogs at their local frame shop. Or, they can bring in a favorite oversized print to be framed. “Oversized has been, and continues to be, popular with framers because current residential and commercial architectural trends tend to favor high ceilings and large expanses of wall, perfect for hanging large artwork,” says Martin Lawlor of the New York-based art publisher, Bruce McGaw Graphics.

Framers know that oversized art can be intimidating for some. That’s why they always work to assure a client’s oversized piece will blend flawlessly with the rest of a room’s decor, rather than sticking-out like a sore thumb, an occurrence common with pre-framed oversized pieces. Custom framers can stack mouldings to give the piece some extra flair, or go with a more simplistic design for those with minimalist tastes. A framer can even turn a favorite standard-sized print into an oversized masterpiece more appropriate for a loft or vaulted-ceiling home.

By adding an oversized mat and wide frame, the piece is bumped into the trendy oversized dimensions. Whatever the frame design, custom framers know how to handle oversized works and can give advice on color choices, frame designs and hanging solutions. When it comes to home-décor trends like oversized art, and you want the advice of an expert, ask your local FASTFRAME professional, and your space will be the better for it.”

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