How to Choose the Right Artwork for your Home

You may be worried about choosing the right size or the right colors to fit your space, but choosing art for the home is more intuitive than you might think when following a few simple rules.

Artwork is very personal, and it is one of the more comprehensive statements you can make in your home, which defines your personality and who you are. It adds character, visual interest, and it’s also an investment you can take with you should you move. The best part of artwork is that you don’t have to spend exorbitant prices for a piece you love. There are so many artists, prints, and pieces available that can fit any budget or style. The challenging part is in deciding where (and how) you hang your artwork. Here are some of my fail-proof suggestions.

Trust your instincts

Though you can certainly follow some “rules” when it comes to your home décor, your walls don’t necessarily have to follow the same dogma. Consider viewing your walls as a blank canvas. Your walls can be the place for your more eclectic or emotional choices. Remember, art is a platform for self-expression, for colour, texture, and storytelling. Trust your instincts on what art speaks to you personally, and consider it your artistic expression!

Attend art events and head to the galleries

However big or small, every city has its vibrant art scene, and the best way to learn about art is to study it. Expose yourself to emerging artists, whether at an art event or through a gallery tour. How many times have you heard a story of someone purchasing an unknown piece of art only to find out years later it was made by a now-famous artiste? Paperworks are also a great tip: much less expensive than oil on canvas; you can still have the sentiment of a great piece of art at half the price.

Consider your available wall space.

This is important: you have to determine what kind of real estate you have. If you have a large wall to fill or want one statement piece to anchor your space, look for large-scale art. These pieces can make a tremendous impact. If you have a smaller wall, creating a gallery wall is equally as impactful. Pair complementary styles and colours together, assessing what’s currently in your space, so every aspect compliments each other.

Use large frames

I read about this suggestion in My Domaine, and I loved it! If you don’t have the budget for a large piece of art, try exaggerating the size of your wall by incorporating a few smaller elements—small photographs or prints— by placing them in thin frames with large borders. It emphasizes the artwork and prevents the wall art from looking cluttered (especially in a small setting).

Stack art vertically

Stacking artwork in a vertical pattern can lengthen the height of a wall visually. Start from top to bottom to create a narrative of how the artwork can harmoniously work together on the wall as a collage.

Complement the room’s size, colour, and aesthetic

From the kitchen to the living room, the artwork will be very different for each room. Your bedroom is meant to be a retreat: a place for relaxation and contemplation, so the artwork should reflect that. Whether you place your art directly above your bed or opposite, typically large scale pieces work well and should hang at eye level. Look for abstract details in soothing colours that help you to relax. When it comes to the living room, for example, this is where you can play with louder prints, designs, and tones. Just remember you don’t want the artwork to overwhelm the space, but complement it.

Use large frames

I read about this suggestion in My Domaine, and I loved it! If you don’t have the budget for a large piece of art, try exaggerating the size of your wall by incorporating a few smaller elements—small photographs or prints— by placing them in thin frames with large borders. It emphasizes the artwork and prevents the wall art from looking cluttered (especially in a small setting).

Stack art vertically

Stacking artwork in a vertical pattern can lengthen the height of a wall visually. Start from top to bottom to create a narrative of how the artwork can harmoniously work together on the wall as a collage.

Complement the room’s size, colour, and aesthetic

From the kitchen to the living room, the artwork will be very different for each room. Your bedroom is meant to be a retreat: a place for relaxation and contemplation, so the artwork should reflect that. Whether you place your art directly above your bed or opposite, typically large scale pieces work well and should hang at eye level. Look for abstract details in soothing colours that help you to relax. When it comes to the living room, for example, this is where you can play with louder prints, designs, and tones. Just remember you don’t want the artwork to overwhelm the space, but complement it.