In interior design, wall art is pivotal in personalising and making a space feel complete. Choosing the right art pieces can completely transform a room, whether you’re decorating your living room, dining room, or bedroom. This guide will help you navigate selecting and hanging artwork that suits your space and style.
Let's get straight to the point
Selecting the perfect wall art for your space can personalise your home and transform its look. Start by assessing your wall space to determine the right size and arrangement of art, whether one large piece or a gallery wall. Match your selections to the room’s purpose, such as creating a focal point in the living room or a serene atmosphere in the bedroom.
Choose pieces that reflect your style and coordinate with your room’s furniture and colour palette, incorporating accent colours and neutral tones for harmony. Experiment with frames and layouts for a balanced aesthetic. Hanging art at eye level and using proper lighting will enhance its impact.
Don’t feel restricted by rigid rules; mix different styles and scales to express your creativity. With thoughtful selection and placement, wall art can completely transform any space and reflect your unique personality and style.
Understanding Your Wall Space
Assessing Wall Dimensions
Before you start shopping for art pieces, measure your wall space carefully. A large wall can accommodate one large piece or a gallery wall, while smaller pieces might suit a narrow or opposite wall.
- Tip: Keep the size of the wall in mind to ensure your chosen artwork is the right size.
Considering the Room’s Purpose
Different rooms require different styles of art. For example:
- Living room: A large piece or a series of individual pieces can be a focal point.
- Dining room: Use artwork that complements your colour palette and enhances the dining experience.
- Bedroom: Opt for calming or neutral tones to create a serene environment.
Defining Your Personal Style
Explore Different Styles of Art
The key to choosing artwork is to find a style that resonates with your personality. Whether you prefer original pieces, prints, or canvas works, your choice should reflect your taste.
- Minimalist designs often use neutral tones and subtle accent colours.
- Vibrant and eclectic interiors call for bold art fits and unique shapes.
Incorporating Personality into Your Decor
Adding art that reflects your interests can make your space more inviting. Consider:
- Framed art with timber frames for a rustic feel.
- Abstract artwork to add intrigue and modernity.
Choosing Art for Your Space
Start with a Focal Point
When decorating, make the artwork a focal point. A large piece above the sofa or bed can anchor the space.
- Tip: Match the tone of the piece of art with your room’s overall aesthetic.
Complementing Your Colour Palette
Select art pieces that work with your colour palette:
- Use accent colours to tie together furniture and decor.
- Consider the light in the room to ensure the colours are vibrant and not washed out.
Creating a Gallery Wall
Planning Your Layout
A gallery wall is a creative way to display multiple art pieces. Here’s how to plan it:
- Select a mix of framed pieces, canvas, and prints.
- Use templates or paper cut-outs to visualise the arrangement before you hang art.
- Balance different styles and sizes for an eclectic yet cohesive look.
Choosing the Right Frames
Frames are the finishing touches that can elevate your artwork. Consider:
- Timber frames for warmth and texture.
- Sleek black or white frames for a modern edge.
Design Considerations
Balancing Scale and Proportion
It’s crucial to choose artwork that suits the size of your wall:
- For a large wall, opt for one big piece or several individual pieces.
- On two walls, keep the styles harmonious to avoid a cluttered look.
Coordinating with Furniture
Your art should enhance the room’s furniture rather than compete with it:
- For a cohesive look, align the bottom edge of the artwork with the top of nearby furniture.
- Make your room feel bigger by using large pieces in smaller spaces.
Selecting the Perfect Piece
Finding Artwork That Speaks to You
When you buy art, focus on pieces that evoke emotion or memories. Explore galleries, online stores, or local artists to find art that resonates with you.
- Example: A serene landscape for the family room or a dynamic abstract for a modern living room.
Shop with Purpose
When searching for the perfect piece, consider:
- The shape and dimensions of your wall space.
- How the art will complement existing decor.
Hanging and Displaying Your Artwork
Techniques for Hanging Art
Properly hanging art ensures it makes the right impact:
- Use hooks and levels to align pieces correctly.
- Hang art** at eye level for the most pleasing view.
Adding Finishing Touches
To make your artwork shine:
- Ensure it’s well-lit, using spotlights or natural light.
- Arrange smaller pieces around a central big piece to add interest.
Additional Tips for Choosing the Right Wall Art
Avoid Fast Rules
Decorating is about personal preference, so don’t feel confined by strict rules. Experiment with different styles, materials, and arrangements to create a unique space.
The Role of Accent Colours
Subtle accent colours in your artwork can help tie together various elements in your room, like rugs, cushions, and curtains.
Large Pieces vs. Smaller Pieces
While one large piece can act as a statement, a mix of smaller pieces creates visual interest. Balance these based on your room’s size and layout.
Conclusion: Choosing Artwork That Complements Your Space
Selecting the right wall art is a journey of discovery. You can completely transform any room by assessing your wall space, defining your style, and carefully planning the placement and arrangement. Whether it’s a large piece for the dining room or a whimsical gallery wall in the family room, the right artwork brings life and personality to your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
To choose the right wall art, measure your wall space, consider the room's purpose, and select pieces that align with your style, colour palette, and existing furniture for a cohesive and inviting look.
Choose a large or eye-catching piece of art to serve as the focal point. Place it in a central location, such as above a sofa or bed, to anchor the room's design.
Plan your gallery wall by mixing framed pieces, prints, and canvases. Use templates or cut-outs to visualise the layout, balancing sizes and styles to create an eclectic but cohesive arrangement.
Select art that complements or contrasts with your room’s colour palette. Neutral tones provide balance, while accent colours in the artwork can tie together decor elements like cushions or rugs.
Hang art at eye level, typically 150 centimetres from the floor. In rooms with furniture, align the art's bottom edge with the furniture’s top for a harmonious and professional look.
