Sharon Stone Turns an Overlooked Landing Into an Unexpected Design Showcase Using Nothing More Than Antiques and Art

A landing is not typically a focal point (unless you have a grand staircase, in which case, the opposite is the case. However, for most of us, these areas can be utilitarian-veering-on-dead spaces. Sharon Stone has shown us that just a couple of items can completely transform these spaces.

In a post shared to her Instagram page, we can see that the actor has placed an antique trunk next to her suitcase, both acting as decoration and a storage solution. Meanwhile, a large-scale painting hangs on the white wall, adding some color and personality to the area.

The combination of a vintage object and vibrant art is a fantastic landing idea, and experts agree that trunks and the like are timeless decor options.

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According to design experts, trunks are excellent additions to a landing because they manage to provide function and fashion in equal measure.

'Storage should be both practical and beautiful,' explains Lena Gierasinska, head of product and displays at Barker and Stonehouse. 'Of course, it needs to serve a purpose, but it also needs to be in keeping with the style and design of your home. Sideboards are a perfect double act, offering a surface on which to showcase your favourite decorative pieces, whilst also providing plenty of storage to tidy away clutter.'

She continues, 'Another tip when considering storage is not to forget about the walls. Whether you are incorporating bookcases, shelving units, or even wall hanging shelves, these are great ways to remove clutter from the floor to make a space appear bigger and provide you with a platform to showcase some of your favourite accessories. However, I’d advise that when it comes to open shelving units, less is more. Cut the clutter by styling just one or two key pieces per shelf, complementing them with a stack of books here and there to introduce further depth and interest, whilst ensuring they look neat.'

While wall art is not a storage solution, it certainly provides a much-needed point of visual interest on a wall next to a landing. If you want to coordinate with a trunk (this one from Wayfair is on our radar), try incorporating an antique-style frame for a cohesive look.

Lena also explains that trunks are great for smaller areas: 'For smaller space-saving solutions, consider trunks, boxes, and baskets, as these are a fantastic option to give you that extra storage you require without taking over a space. These are great because they are easy to move around and have a variety of uses.'