How to Choose Wall Art and Decor: A Clear Guide

When it comes to decorating a home, wall art and decor are often the finishing touches that bring everything together. Art and decor can add color, texture, and personality to a room, making it feel complete and inviting.

However, choosing the right pieces can be a daunting task, especially if you are not sure where to start.

One important factor to consider when selecting wall art and decor is the size of the space. Large pieces may overwhelm a small room, while small pieces may get lost in a larger space.

As a general rule, wall art should take up 60% to 75% of the available wall space that isn’t already covered by molding or blocked by furniture. When hanging art over furniture, like a sofa or bed, it should be 2/3 to 3/4 the width of the furniture.

Another important consideration is the style of the room. Wall art and decor should complement the existing decor and enhance the overall aesthetic.

For example, a modern abstract painting may clash with traditional furniture, while a vintage poster may look out of place in a minimalist space. It’s important to choose pieces that fit the style of the room and add to its ambiance.

Understanding Your Space for Wall Art and Decor

When it comes to choosing wall art and decor, it’s important to understand your space. This means assessing wall size, considering room function, and evaluating room style.

Assessing Wall Size

Before selecting wall art and decor, it’s crucial to assess the size of your walls. A small piece of art on a large wall can look lost and out of place, while a large piece on a small wall can be overwhelming.

Use a tape measure to determine the dimensions of your wall and consider the following guidelines:

• A single large piece of art or a gallery wall can work well on a large, blank wall.
• Smaller pieces or a collection of art can be hung together to fill a smaller wall.
• Consider the height of the ceiling when selecting the size of your art. A tall ceiling can accommodate larger pieces, while a lower ceiling may require smaller art.

Considering Room Function

The function of the room should also be taken into account when selecting wall art and decor. For example, a bedroom may benefit from calming, soothing art, while a living room may require more vibrant, energetic pieces. Consider the following tips:

• In a home office, choose art that inspires creativity and productivity.
• In a dining room, select art that complements the decor and enhances the dining experience.
• In a child’s room, consider playful, colorful art that sparks imagination.

Evaluating Room Style

The style of the room should also be taken into consideration when selecting wall art and decor. The art should complement the existing decor and enhance the overall aesthetic. Consider the following tips:

• In a modern room, choose abstract or minimalist pieces.
• In a traditional room, select classic art or landscapes.
• In a bohemian room, opt for eclectic, colorful art.

By understanding your space, you can select wall art and decor that complements your home’s style and enhances its overall aesthetic.

Knowing Different Types of Wall Art

When it comes to choosing wall art and decor, knowing the different types available can help you make an informed decision. Here are some of the most popular types of wall art that you can consider.

Paintings

Paintings are one of the most traditional forms of wall art. They come in various styles, including abstract, landscape, portrait, and still life. Paintings can be made with oil, acrylic, watercolor, or other mediums. They can add color, texture, and depth to a room and are often the focal point of a space.

When choosing paintings for your home, consider the size, style, and color scheme of the room. A large painting can make a bold statement, while a series of smaller paintings can create a cohesive look. Y

ou can also mix and match different styles and mediums to create a unique and personalized display.

Photographs

Photographs are another popular type of wall art. They can be black and white or color and can feature a variety of subjects, such as landscapes, people, animals, and objects. Photographs can add a personal touch to a room and can be a great way to showcase memories and experiences.

When choosing photographs for your home, consider the size, framing, and placement. A large photograph can make a statement, while a series of smaller photographs can create a gallery wall. You can also experiment with different frames and matting to create a custom look.

Sculptures

Sculptures are three-dimensional art pieces that can be made from various materials, such as metal, wood, stone, and glass. They can be abstract or representational and can add depth and texture to a room. Sculptures can be placed on shelves, tables, or pedestals, or hung on the wall.

When choosing sculptures for your home, consider the size, material, and style. A large sculpture can be a focal point, while a small sculpture can add interest to a shelf or table. You can also mix and match different materials and styles to create a unique look.

Tapestries

Tapestries are woven wall hangings that can add color, texture, and pattern to a room. They can be made from various materials, such as wool, cotton, silk, and synthetic fibers, and can feature a variety of designs, such as floral, geometric, and abstract. Tapestries can be hung on the wall or used as a room divider.

When choosing tapestries for your home, consider the size, material, and design. A large tapestry can make a statement, while a smaller tapestry can be used as an accent.

You can also experiment with different hanging methods, such as a rod or clips, to create a custom look.

Choosing the Right Colors

When choosing wall art and decor, color is an important factor to consider. The right color can enhance the overall look and feel of a room. Here are some tips on how to choose the right colors for your wall art and decor.

Matching Room Color Palette

One way to choose the right colors for your wall art and decor is to match them with the colors of your room. This can create a cohesive look and tie the room together. Look for wall art and decor that includes some of the same colors as your room’s color palette.

For example, if your room has a blue-and-white color scheme, look for wall art and decor that includes shades of blue and white.

Creating Contrast

Another way to choose the right colors for your wall art and decor is to create contrast. This can add visual interest and make your wall art and decor stand out. Look for wall art and decor that includes colors that are opposite each other on the color wheel.

For example, if your room has a warm color scheme, look for wall art and decor that includes cool colors like blue or green.

When choosing colors for your wall art and decor, it’s important to consider the overall mood and style of your room. Neutral colors like beige, gray, and white can create a calming and sophisticated look, while bold colors like red and orange can add energy and excitement to a room.

By considering these factors, you can choose the right colors for your wall art and decor that will enhance the overall look and feel of your room.

Selecting the Appropriate Size

Choosing the right size of wall art and decor is crucial to creating a balanced and visually appealing space. Here are some tips to help you select the appropriate size for your walls.

Large Walls

When it comes to large walls, it’s important to choose artwork that is proportionate to the size of the wall. A small piece of art on a large wall can look lost and out of place. On the other hand, a large piece of art on a small wall can be overwhelming and take over the entire room.

One way to determine the appropriate size is to follow the 60%-75% rule. This means that the wall art should take up 60%-75% of the available wall space that isn’t covered by furniture or moldings.

To calculate the size, measure the width and height of the wall and then multiply them by both 0.60 and 0.75. This will give you a range of canvas print sizes that will suit the space.

Another option is to create a gallery wall by grouping several smaller pieces of art together. In this case, think of the overall display as one unit and try to follow the same guidelines.

Small Walls

For small walls, it’s important to choose artwork that is appropriately sized for the space. A large piece of art on a small wall can make the space feel cramped and cluttered. On the other hand, a small piece of art on a small wall can look insignificant and out of place.

One option is to choose a single piece of art that is proportionate to the wall size. A good rule of thumb is to choose a piece of art that is roughly two-thirds the width of the furniture below it, such as a sofa or bed.

Another option is to create a gallery wall by grouping several smaller pieces of art together. In this case, it’s important to keep the overall size of the display in mind. To create a cohesive look, choose pieces that are similar in size and style.

By following these tips, selecting the appropriate size of wall art and decor can be a breeze.

Creating a Gallery Wall

When it comes to wall art and decor, creating a gallery wall can be a great way to showcase your style and personality.

A gallery wall is a curated collection of artwork, photographs, and other decorative items that are arranged in a cohesive and visually appealing way. Here are some tips for creating a gallery wall that will make a statement in your home.

Choosing a Theme

Before you start hanging artwork, it’s important to choose a theme for your gallery wall. This will help you narrow down your choices and create a cohesive look. Some popular themes for gallery walls include:

• Color: Choose a color scheme and select artwork and decor that fits within that palette.
• Style: Pick a particular style, such as modern or vintage, and choose pieces that fit within that aesthetic.
• Subject matter: Choose a specific subject, such as travel or nature, and select pieces that relate to that theme.

Once you have a theme in mind, you can start selecting artwork and decor that fits within that category.

Balancing Sizes and Shapes

When creating a gallery wall, it’s important to balance the sizes and shapes of the pieces you choose. This will help create a visually appealing display that doesn’t feel cluttered or overwhelming. Here are some tips for balancing sizes and shapes:

• Mix it up: Don’t be afraid to mix different sizes and shapes of artwork. This will add visual interest and keep the display from feeling too uniform.
• Create a focal point: Choose one or two larger pieces to anchor the display and build around them.
• Use templates: Before you start hanging artwork, use paper templates to plan out the placement of each piece. This will help you visualize the final display and make adjustments as needed.

By choosing a theme and balancing sizes and shapes, you can create a gallery wall that showcases your unique style and adds visual interest to any room.

Consideration of Budget

When choosing wall art and decor, budget is an important consideration. Artwork can range from a few dollars to thousands of dollars, and decor items can also vary in price. It is important to set a budget before beginning the search for wall art and decor to ensure that you do not overspend.

One way to save money on wall art is to consider purchasing prints instead of original pieces. Prints can be just as beautiful as originals and are often much more affordable. Look for prints that are produced in limited editions, as these can still be valuable and unique.

Another way to save money is to consider purchasing wall art and decor from secondhand stores or online marketplaces. These items can often be found at a fraction of the cost of new items, and can add character and charm to your home.

When it comes to decor items such as vases, sculptures, and other decorative objects, consider purchasing items that are versatile and can be used in different rooms or settings. This can help you get more use out of your decor items and justify the cost.

Finally, it is important to remember that expensive does not always mean better. There are many affordable pieces of wall art and decor that can be just as beautiful and impactful as more expensive items.

When shopping for wall art and decor, focus on finding pieces that speak to you and fit within your budget, rather than solely focusing on the price tag.

Maintenance and Care of Wall Art

Taking good care of wall art and decor is important to keep it looking its best for years to come. Here are some tips to help maintain and care for your wall art:

• Dust regularly: Dusting your wall art regularly is important to prevent dust and dirt from accumulating on the surface. Use a soft, dry cloth or a feather duster to gently remove any dust or debris.
• Avoid direct sunlight: Direct sunlight can cause fading and damage to your wall art. If possible, hang your wall art in a location that is not exposed to direct sunlight.
• Avoid moisture: Moisture can cause damage to your wall art, especially if it is made of paper or canvas. Avoid hanging your wall art in areas that are prone to moisture, such as bathrooms or kitchens.
• Use proper cleaning products: When cleaning your wall art, be sure to use the appropriate cleaning products for the material. For example, if your wall art is made of canvas, use a gentle cleaning solution designed for canvas.
• Handle with care: When moving or handling your wall art, be sure to handle it with care to avoid any damage. If possible, use gloves to handle delicate or valuable pieces.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your wall art and decor stays looking beautiful for years to come.

Conclusion

Wall art and decor are essential components of any home decor. They add personality and character to a space and can be used to create a visual focal point or to complement the mood of a room. When choosing wall art and decor, it is important to consider the size, shape, and color of the piece.

As a general rule, wall art should take up 60% to 75% of the available wall space that isn’t already covered by molding or blocked by furniture.

When hanging art over furniture, like a sofa or bed, it should be 2/3 to 3/4 the width of the furniture. Grouping smaller pieces of art together is an effective way to achieve this.

Color is also an important consideration when choosing wall art and decor. It can evoke different emotions and create different moods. Warm colors like red, orange, and yellow can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, while cool colors like blue, green, and purple can create a calming and relaxing environment.

Another important factor to consider is the style of the room. Wall art and decor should complement the existing decor and enhance the overall aesthetic of the space.

For example, a modern and minimalist room may benefit from a large, abstract piece of art, while a traditional and classic room may benefit from a landscape painting or a portrait.

In conclusion, choosing the perfect wall art and decor for a space can be challenging, but by considering the size, shape, color, and style of the piece, it is possible to create a cohesive and visually appealing environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some tips for choosing wall art that complements a modern living room?

When choosing wall art for a modern living room, it is important to consider the color scheme and overall aesthetic of the room.

Abstract art or minimalist pieces with clean lines and neutral tones can work well in a modern space. It is also important to consider the size of the artwork and how it will fit in with the other decor elements in the room.

How can I choose large wall art that is proportional to my living room?

When choosing large wall art for a living room, it is important to consider the size of the wall and the other furniture in the room.

A general rule of thumb is to choose a piece that is two-thirds to three-quarters the size of the furniture it will be placed above.

It is also important to consider the height at which the artwork will be hung and to ensure that it is at eye level when seated.

What are some unique wall art ideas for a living room?

There are many unique wall art ideas for a living room, including gallery walls, tapestries, sculptural pieces, and mixed media art. It is important to choose pieces that reflect your personal style and interests while also complementing the overall aesthetic of the room.

What are some guidelines for matching artwork with the decor in a room?

When matching artwork with the decor in a room, it is important to consider the color scheme, style, and overall aesthetic of the space.

Artwork should complement, rather than clash with, the other elements in the room. It is also important to consider the scale of the artwork and how it will fit in with the other furniture and decor elements.

What types of paintings or art pieces are best suited for a living room?

The types of paintings or art pieces that are best suited for a living room depend on the style and aesthetic of the room.

Abstract art or minimalist pieces can work well in modern spaces, while landscapes or still lifes can be a good fit for more traditional rooms. It is important to choose pieces that reflect your personal style and interests while also complementing the overall aesthetic of the room.

How can I choose wall art that enhances the feng shui of my bedroom?

When choosing wall art for a bedroom, it is important to consider the principles of feng shui. Artwork should promote a sense of calm and relaxation and should be placed in a location that is visible from the bed.

It is also important to choose pieces that reflect your personal style and interests, while also complementing the overall aesthetic of the room.