Design with Meaning: Grandma Anne’s Paintings

Learn how to thoughtfully design a space around a cherished heirloom or unique piece — even when its colors or style don’t quite match your decor. See how I honored my Grandma Anne’s beautiful paintings by making them the soul of each room.

For me, this topic is personal. I was incredibly close with my Grandma Anne — a warm, endlessly creative woman who filled her home with color, stories, and the most beautiful paintings. Every brushstroke held a memory: of the places she loved, the seasons she cherished, and the way she saw the world.

When she passed, I was fortunate enough to inherit one of her paintings. It’s a treasure to me — not just for its beauty, but for the history and love behind them. But like many heirloom pieces, their colors and styles didn’t always naturally align with the color palettes I typically design with.

Rather than tucking them away or trying to force them into a space where they didn’t feel at home, I let them lead the way. I designed spaces around them. I pulled a single hue from a painting. Then, I made sure there were complimentary colors and textures that support it. Additionally, by softening bold palettes with neutral backdrops, the paintings could shine without competing. And in doing so, each space tells a story — of my Grandma Anne, of our bond, and of the importance of honoring the people and pieces that shape us.

The photos throughout this post show how I incorporated her artwork into my home. Every time I walk past them, I feel like she’s still part of my day.

Integrating Heirlooms and Unique Gifts into Design

Integrating a cherished but hard-to-place item allows you to celebrate its history. You accentuate its unique hues, and find balance between old and new. By letting the piece guide your palette, serving as the room’s focal point, you’ll create a space that honors sentimentality. Thoughtfully layering textures and eras makes the space feel fresh and intentional.

Embrace the Story behind the heirloom

Every heirloom carries a narrative—whether it’s the brass lantern you brought home from Morocco, Grandma’s faded quilt, or a jewel-tone vase gifted on a milestone birthday. Lean into that story: place the item where its provenance can be shared—on a mantel, console, or dedicated shelving vignette—so it becomes a conversation starter rather than an afterthought (Inline Ovals).

Treat the heirloom as a living artifact: document its backstory on a small plaque. Pair it with framed photos or mementos related to its origin. Rotate accompanying accents seasonally to keep the narrative lively and evolving (Linda Merrill).