Friday, January 9, 2015

The Art of the Vignette

I learned many things from working with both Thomas Pheasant and Steven Volpe but one of the most important lessons that I took from both is approaching the design of the room through the lens of a photographer and the composition of an artist. A room should tell a story, and the vignettes become the mise en scène for capturing the essence and overall mood of the room. There is an art to creating the vignette, creating a connection between disparate objects and furniture and playing with scale and evoking a sense of drama and excitement. I think the master of the vignette was the great David Hicks, who always created the perfect tableaux. Hope you enjoy the vignettes that inspire me.


Thomas Pheasant from Simply Serene


Robert Couturier


Alexandre Biaggi


Atelier A.M.


Daniel Romualdez


David Giesman


David Hicks


David Hicks


Howard Slatkin for Deeda Blair


James Huniford


Jean Louis Deniot



Jed Johnson for Andy Warhol


Karl Lagerfeld


Lorenzo Castillo


Lorenzo Castillo


Lorenzo Castillo


Luis Bustamante


Madison Cox


Mark Cunningham


Mark Cunningham


Yours Truly


Michael Smith


Pierre Passabon


Raji Radhakrishnan


Sandra Nunnerly


Lorenzo Castillo


Steven Volpe


Steven Volpe




Thierry Despont


Thierry Despont


Veere Grenney


via The Fuller View


Yves Gastou


Michael Smith




4 comments:

Lord Cowell said...

Wow, amazing post full of great examples of tableaux and vignettes. I think it is very true that a key to creating a harmonious rooms is building a whole lot of vignettes pleasing to the eye so that wherever you look there is a view, with a focus and an edited look. Editing is key, and Hicks is very elegant when it comes to displaying objects - a good example being that second Hicks photo you've shared.

Inspiring post, makes me itchy that I still have 4 months to go till I can start to decorate our interiors.
David.

Michael Hampton said...

David,

I cant wait to see the continued progress and I know that you create many beautiful vigenttes of your own!

All the best,

Michael

Unknown said...

This is such a beautiful and inspiring post. I love all of these and have had a wonderful time exploring your website. I met you at a DC Design House and will never forget your cashmere blend draperies and luxurious room. I love your drawings- they are perfection! Nancy

Michael Hampton said...

Thank you so much Nancy! I am designing the library at this years DC Design House in McLean and hope that you can come by for a visit.

Cheers

Michael