Your building isn’t just where people live—it’s home. And home should feel warm, welcoming, and personal from the moment you walk through the door. The spaces residents share—the lobby, hallways, lounge, courtyard—shape that feeling every day. Thoughtfully chosen art can help bring these spaces to life. It adds energy and character, encourages connection between neighbors, and shows that the building is cared for.
Why it matters
Art has the power to transform how a space feels. It can turn a blank wall into a focal point, or a quiet corner into a place people want to linger. It helps express the building’s identity—whether by reflecting the local neighborhood, celebrating its history, or simply bringing moments of beauty into daily life. In small ways, art helps remind residents that this isn’t just a building. It’s home.
Bringing neighbors together
Art also creates opportunities for connection. Resident-led projects, gallery walls that feature local artists, or collaborative pieces—like a mural painted by neighbors—can help foster a stronger sense of community. These shared experiences give people a chance to engage with each other and take pride in the space they live in.
Improving the day-to-day
Well-chosen art can make common spaces more enjoyable to use. Calming pieces in a lounge or fitness room, vibrant colors in a hallway, or playful sculptures in an outdoor space can all help create a more welcoming environment. Small details like this shape the experience of coming home.
A lasting investment
Beyond enhancing day-to-day life, art can also contribute to the long-term value of the property. Buildings with well-designed, thoughtfully maintained spaces tend to stand out and attract future buyers and renters. It’s a reflection of the care and attention the board and community put into their home.
Getting started
If your board is thinking about bringing art into your building, here are a few ways to begin:
- Talk to residents. What kinds of art would they like to see? Which spaces feel like opportunities?
- Set a budget. This might come from association fees, sponsorships, or resident contributions.
- Curate thoughtfully. Partner with local artists, galleries, or consultants to select pieces that reflect your building’s personality.
- Plan the details. Choose locations, handle any permits, and manage installation.
- Maintain it. Plan for upkeep so the art continues to enhance the space over time.
- Celebrate it. Mark the occasion with an unveiling or small event to bring the community together.
Art can help turn common spaces into places people feel connected to—places that feel like home. And when residents feel at home, it lifts the entire experience of living in the building.
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