My First Private-Residence Mural in San Francisco
- Lucy Liew
- Dec 27, 2025
- 3 min read
There are moments in an artist’s journey that come like quiet blessings—unexpected, humbling, and deeply affirming. Being approached this year to create a bespoke mural for a private residence in San Francisco was one of those moments.
From the very first conversation, I knew this project would be special. My clients were gracious, thoughtful, and full of heart, and collaborating with them felt like stepping into a shared creative journey.
This family has lived in California for nearly 30 years, and throughout that time, the poppies they encountered on their hikes around the Bay Area have always sparked joy. Those bright, cheerful blooms became the soul of our mural.
My initial concept sketch featured both the resilient poppies and lively hummingbirds. After discussion with my clients, we decided on a simpler design: five golden poppies in various stages of growth. It's a celebration of the California landscape that brightens their lives.
Initial concept sketch, design mock-up, and final concept sketch
A Mural Designed for an Intimate Space
The mural now lives in their dining room—a cozy, light-filled space that sits along the path to the home office. It’s a room where morning sun pours in through the window, where meals are shared, and where simple moments unfold. Because the dining room is small, the mural became the perfect way to bring beauty and presence into the space without taking up physical room. It also integrates seamlessly with their newly remodeled kitchen, visually bringing their home together.
The orange poppies rise softly along the wall—warm, welcoming, and alive with movement. They offer a focal point that invites pause, breath, and appreciation. I'm so glad that my piece will not only be seen, but lived with.
A blank canvas, the artist's palette, and the beginnings of the poppy mural!
Client Reflections That Warm My Heart
One of the greatest joys of creating art for someone’s home is hearing how it becomes part of their daily rhythm. Their words mean so much to me:
“We are really enjoying your beautiful work during our meal times and in between too. My students love the finished mural and your artwork too.”
“It’s beautiful with the morning light.”
“We are still loving our mural every day and all of Vali’s students are entranced.”
“I get a spark of joy every morning when I see the poppies in our dining room—thanks so much.”
These reflections remind me why I paint: to bring beauty into the everyday and honor the stories people carry in their homes.
A Grateful Milestone
This mural marks my first private-residence installation in San Francisco, and I couldn’t have asked for a more meaningful beginning. I’m grateful for clients who trusted me with their vision, welcomed me into their home, and shared their joy so generously. Art becomes truly alive when it finds its place in someone’s life. I’m honored that these poppies now bloom in a home filled with warmth and light.
Do you have a vision for a custom mural in your home? I would love to discuss bringing your ideas to life. My goal is to create a one-of-a-kind piece that beautifully reflects your space, your story, and the atmosphere you want to bring to your walls. Learn more about my commission process at the link below.
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