A modern home demands modern picture frames to blend with the layout and furnishings.
Stunning though some antique frames can be, they look out of place in a modern environment.
Traditionally, picture frames were wooden, perhaps embellished with gold leaf or carvings. However, think of a material, and there will be a picture frame made in it.
Natural materials, such as bamboo, hessian, driftwood, linen, jute, leather, and suede are fashionable in warm climates, where furnishings, such as bentwood furniture, tend to reflect the outdoor feel of the house. Cooler climates tend to have carpeting, warm looking seating such as deep, squashy sofas, and heavy curtains. It is here that the manufactured materials tend to be most widespread.
Very popular are unadorned metal frames, often with a brushed effect, in bronze, silver, or gold colours. The simplicity of these sets off the picture within very effectively. Others may prefer decorated metal, such as a deep frame of paisley patterned metal. Metal with bamboo embossing or decorative knots on the frame gives a warmer feel, and pewter is another nice finish in metal, as is bronze or silver plate. Stepped frames draw the eye inwards to the picture itself and look very effective in irregular patterned silver.
Acrylic is another on-trend material for modern frames, and gives the impression of space and light around the picture. Multiple frames in acrylic can be stunning on a large wall.
Modern frames are, of course, available in wood. Simply carved walnut, pine, or other woods can be used. Black and white are popular colours for frames, so wood is a good medium to paint, and frames are sold ready coloured. For some exotic ideas, look at designer frames on the Internet. Although these are out of some people’s reach financially, a similar look can be achieved with a little imagination. In fact, if one is handy at craftwork, one can make one’s own frames with natural materials. Driftwood is one example in which a plain frame can be adorned with pieces of driftwood to make a unique surround to a favourite picture.
It is not necessary to stick to one type of modern style throughout the house. Use different materials and styles within the modern range to make each room slightly different. For example, a series of family pictures could be hung in a bedroom with suede or leather frames in different colours. Browse modern picture frames in catalogs or on the Internet for your personal favorites.