With the increasing popularity of cell phones, smartwatches, and activity trackers, the dependence on wall clocks to tell us the time has significantly diminished. This does not mean that wall clocks are disappearing from the interiors of homes. If anything, wall clocks have become a popular design element that can quickly and easily add color, texture, art, and style to a room.
Because telling time is no longer their main purpose, wall clock designs can range from traditional to the absurd and are more artistic than functional. When choosing a wall clock for a wall in your home, here are a few things to consider.
The Room Itself
A wall clock isn’t a décor element that will be overlooked. People naturally look at clocks to check the time even if they already know what time it is. Because a clock is sure to get attention, make sure to consider how its size and placement will affect your existing design scheme. Before you head out the door to go clock shopping, decide which wall will feature the clock and how the clock will enhance the overall design of the room.
Clocks come in various shapes, colors, and sizes. If a room is already quite colorful, a neutral or plain clock might work best. A neutral room with lots of wall space might benefit from an oversized, antique, or some kind of unique design that’s eye-catching and creates a feeling of depth. Measure the wall space and make sure the wall can support a heavy clock if you’re in the market for an antique. Much like buying and hanging a painting, you want a clock that will add to or enhance the theme of the room.
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The Purpose of the Clock
Aside from telling time, clocks can also make a decorative statement. If you intend to have a functioning timepiece, you will want a clock that’s easy to read. Choose a clock with large numbers. If you’re looking for a clock to be more artistic than functional, then choose a clock that fits the design of your room.
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Oversized clocks are very popular and create an industrial look. Clock styles run from contemporary to classic and come in many designs to fit in with just about any decor. Clocks that tick or make noise can become annoying and distracting, especially at night. One thing that sets clocks apart from their artwork is the motion of their hands. Moving artwork is always an attention-getter.
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Where to Buy
If you’re not sure what kind of clock you want, start your shopping online. Most department and home improvement stores have photos and descriptions of all their products. This will give you an idea of the different styles, designs, and prices. You can then purchase online or go to the store and look at the clocks. Sometimes it’s best and more fun to actually look at an item before you buy it. You also get to take it home and hang it in the same day.
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If you’re looking for something unique and more one-of-a-kind, try local art and craft fairs or stores that feature the creativity of local artists. Websites like Etsy and eBay also feature a lot of handmade and unique clocks. Depending on where you live, you may have access to a store which specializes in clocks and timepieces. Once you begin your search, you will have no problem finding wall clocks. The hardest part will be choosing one.
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And Why Choose Just One?
Wall clocks can be grouped just like pictures to create a focal point or a unique design element. A large clock can be surrounded by smaller clocks. Clocks of similar colors or with similar features can be hung together.
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A collection of wall clocks placed randomly from floor to ceiling can dress up a room. Several clocks in a row can be set to represent different time zones.
How to Hang It
A wall clock should be treated like fine artwork. Use proper hanging hardware for heavier clocks. Wall studs should also be used for large clocks so they don’t come crashing down. Hang the clock at a height that makes it easily viewable. Clocks can also be set on shelves and extremely large clocks can rest on the floor and lean against the wall.
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When choosing a wall clock or clocks, don’t be afraid to be creative. With so many different styles of clocks available, there’s no reason not to have a little fun.
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Although functional timepieces, today’s wall clocks are more about making a statement than telling time.
