How-ToMichelle AdamsOctober 06, 2026Comment

Perfectly Undone: The Art of Sprezzatura

How-ToMichelle AdamsOctober 06, 2026Comment

Interior design by Emily Schoen, styling and photography by Michelle Adams

The Italians have a word for looking as though you haven't tried too hard: sprezzatura. It isn't really imperfection; we’d define it more as studied effortlessness—the art of making something highly considered appear instinctive, casual, and unforced. The idea has long been associated with personal style, but it may be just as useful at home.

The concept of sprezzatura feels perfect for art styling because so much conventional art advice is about visible control: center it over the sofa, match the frames, measure equal spacing, create a symmetrical grid, coordinate colors with the room. Sprezzatura says: know those rules well enough to loosen them without the room looking accidental. Try mixing periods and styles, hanging something slightly off-center, leaning a favorite work rather than mounting it, or placing art somewhere wonderfully unexpected. These details create a room that has been considered down to the last detail—and somehow doesn't look considered at all. Here are a few ways to bring a little sprezzatura to your walls.