A mural is not just like any other painting. It can transform an entire space in your home, whether it’s a powder room, dining room, or child’s bedroom or playroom. Homeowners looking for a unique design element are turning to muralists, like these three Westchester-based artists, to bring their visions to life on the walls of their homes.
Mamaroneck-based Piero Manrique of Manrique Mural Art and Design is known for his “strong color palette,” while Lisa Samalin of DeersTooth Hand Painted Furniture & Murals in Dobbs Ferry says her style is “poetic realism — naturalistic, with a kiss of something.” White Plains resident Sabrina Crowley of Sabrina’s Murals uses a watercolor technique and a broad range of styles — “a graphic approach” when painting themed rooms, or “soft-toned themes” when called for — to please her clients.
Mural by Lisa Samalin
The artists receive requests for all different spaces but note that children’s rooms are especially popular for murals because these rooms tend to be playful and colorful.
All three say the first thing to decide when commissioning a mural is the style you want to reflect — and your budget. The next step is to meet with the artist for a consultation, where you can share images you love, places you’ve been, ideas that have special meaning for you, etc. The artist may also bring their own images and ideas to help get started on a design decision.
Mural by Sabrina Crowley
Timeline for completion can vary, from a few days up to several weeks, depending on the size and intricacy of the project. Cost varies, as well: Murals can start at around $500 and go into the thousands of dollars.
Some homeowners can be overwhelmed by the size of a mural, but Crowley says not to worry: “Don’t be scared to freshen it up. It’s only paint! A mural inspires creativity and imagination that will bring any room to life.”