Creating a Focal Point with Major Accessories 

By: Christine Prince 

Designer: Christine Prince

Introducing a major accessory into a room, such as a grand piano or a unique piece of art, always creates interest, and a design should be built around it to showcase its appeal. A well-designed room always has a main focal point, and knowing how to display an interesting piece correctly can make that much more of an impression. 

Lighting is always important when creating a space, and when placing art is paramount. Unique art or a sculptural piece under the right light can breathe life and creativity into a room. Colors, shapes and textures from the piece will inspire the fabrics and accessories throughout the room to create a sense of harmony, allowing the art to remain center stage while the room plays the supporting role. An art piece should be placed predominantly in the room where it is easily appreciated from every angle.  

A grand piano would be guaranteed to garner attention in any space. Well planned furniture placement can create a welcoming conversational area around a piano where guests can relax and enjoy the beauty and sound of the instrument. It is important to note that a piano should not be placed near a fireplace, air vent, or an undressed window; drastic changes in temperature and exposure to direct sunlight can not only affect the finish but the tuning of the instrument as well. The use of soft elements in a room with a piano, such as area rugs, draperies, and upholstery, will not only add color and comfort but also absorb the stronger soundwaves from the instrument to allow for a more pleasant listening experience.

No matter what the focal point may be, it should act as the anchor of a room with all supporting pieces working together to create a seamless design scheme that genuinely expresses the lifestyle of the client. 

Artist of the Month:

Toby Tover-Krein

 Toby Tover-Krein, an award-winning painter from the Bay Area, has had her artwork featured in San Francisco and Bay Area art galleries. "Alicia", "Indecision", "Serendipity", and "Just Browsing" are part of Tover-Krein's extensive Diva series.

These Divas, painted in acrylic, have one characteristic in common..they all are women with attitude. Displaying a fierce boldness with an undercurrent of intrigue that often turns introspective, they cannot be overlooked, or ignored. The Divas are in our face and we, as viewers have to confront them. Once seen, these images are hard to forget, perpetuating the ultimate diva feminine mystique.  

 Toby Tover-Krein, influenced by ever-changing images around her in current and vintage media (as well as her always-handy camera), uses her skillful painterly techniques and true understanding of her subjects' psychology to create these evocative, iconic pieces. "I paint subjects to elicit an emotional response from the viewer", stated the artist. Toby captures her Divas in a moment and ensures this moment has become timeless.

To contact Toby Tover-Krein, call (925) 935-7386 or view the rest of her Diva series, or other artworks, as well as commission art, at www.mesart.com/ttover-krein

Featured Sub-Contractor:

Sherman Clay & Co.  

 Sherman Clay and Co. was founded in 1870 by Leander Sherman in San Francisco California. Sherman Clay is the largest Steinway & Sons dealer in the world. Sherman Clay offers a wonderful selection of new an pre-owned upright, Baby Grand and Grand pianos in several different styles and finishes. Today Sherman Clay has locations in five states including a beautiful store in Walnut Creek where Justin Levitt is the store manager. Justin brings a multitude of talents to the arts. Not only is he a salesman, but he is an accomplished pianist, composer and performer.

You can contact Just at

Justin_levitt@sclay.com or by calling (925) 525-4415. You can also visit the Sherman Clay website at www.ShermanClay.com for more information.

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