12 Square Inches of Possibility
On the art of small creative interventions; where homes learn to wink!
When we first moved into this apartment, the previous tenant had installed a couple of “creative” light switch plates. Slightly unexpected; one was a ceramic sunflower, the other a devotional prayer. Not quite my taste, but kinda cool. I left them for years.
I like a bit of oddity in a room. A small wink. A detail that suggests someone once stood there and thought, Why not?
Eventually, when we painted those rooms, I swapped them for plain white. Order restored.
Then, of course, the dining room paint started peeling. (Landlord special around here.) Instead of clearing everything out and committing to repainting the entire room, I did something smaller. I painted a red apple around the light switch, inspired by something I once saved on Pinterest, original artist unknown to me.
Does it draw attention to the slightly questionable wall repair around it? Possibly. But it also transforms that little square of wall into something intentional.
It reminded me how much I love these overlooked surfaces; the places we touch every day without seeing. A light switch plate is such a small canvas, but it’s also an invitation. A frame. A punctuation mark.
That got me thinking about the other light switch plates in our apartment, and which ones need a revamp. Here are a few that make me envious and scheming!
Faux-Finish and Pattern Matching
This clever studio, Barnovi.nyc, carefully hand-paints switch covers to perfectly match surrounding wallpaper, marble, and other finishes. Each one is sealed with a clear varnish so it can withstand daily use and be wiped clean. Such a smart solution and beautifully executed.
Works of Art in Metal
I’ve always loved this kind of metalwork, transforming found and recycled materials into intricate, joyful works. These switch covers, made in Haiti from upcycled oil drums, are especially charming. I love how they escape the expected “box” shape. The craftsmanship is remarkable. These are works of art.
Narratives and Whimsy
There’s also the narrative approach, especially charming in a child’s room. (Let’s be real, I like it too.) Maybe it’s a rocket ship blasting off, a tree with the switch as the trunk, or a unicorn. In these, the switch isn’t hidden; it becomes part of a tiny story. A daily interaction folded into play. I love the idea of leaning into the interests, hobbies, or style of the person who inhabits a room or home.
Just Paint It!
Of course, there's also the route I took: just grab your paints and paint the suckers! Will it last forever? Probably not. Is it suitable for renters? Well... you can always repaint and buy a new switch cover for a few dollars. Is it fun to act on impulse and feel creatively inspired? Absolutely, and definitely.
It’s astonishing how much creativity can live inside twelve square inches. I’m especially smitten with the plexiglass varieties, the hand-sculpted polymer clay versions, and even the upholstered ones. That familiar little spark kicks in when I’m reminded of what’s possible.
If you’d like to wander further, I’ve gathered more on Pinterest.
And once you start noticing these overlooked surfaces (light switches, kick plates, drawer pulls, stair treads), you realize the home is full of tiny stages waiting for a gesture. The opportunities are endless.
Do you have any tiny, unexpected details in your home that make you smile?
Do you see these small, functional spaces as opportunities for delight?
This is just the kind of whimsy I’m seeking.
omg I love this!!! I ventured into this rabbit hole when we color drenched our bedroom dark blue and the outlet covers are still an ongoing situation thank you for all the inspiration!!