Your home is more than just four walls—it’s a reflection of who you are. And just as furniture and lighting contribute to the atmosphere of your space, art has the power to give your home character, depth, and emotion. But choosing the right pieces to complement your décor can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re new to the world of art.
Fear not! With a little guidance, finding art that speaks to you and fits your home can be a rewarding and inspiring experience. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about choosing art for your home.
Understanding Your Space
Before you pick out your first piece, take a good look around your home. Understanding your space is key to making choices that complement and enhance its best features.
Assess the Size and Layout
Consider the dimensions of your walls when deciding what size of artwork to choose. Large pieces of art look stunning above a couch or bed, while smaller prints work well in galleries or cozy nooks. A common rule of thumb is to choose art that’s roughly two-thirds the width of the furniture below it.
For example, if you’re hanging art above your dining table, a piece that aligns horizontally with the table’s proportions will bring the visual balance you’re aiming for.
Lighting Matters
Natural and artificial lighting can dramatically impact how art looks in your home. Rooms with ample sunlight can highlight bright and colorful pieces, while dimmer spaces may call for art with softer or warmer tones. Keep in mind that direct sunlight can fade your artwork over time, so consider UV-protective glass or position your piece thoughtfully.
Think About Room Function
Each room in your house serves a different purpose, so the artwork should reflect its unique vibe. For instance:
- Living Room: Opt for conversation-starting pieces or a dramatic focal point.
- Bedroom: Set a calming tone with abstract or serene artwork.
- Kitchen: Add charm with playful illustrations or food-inspired prints.
- Office: Look for motivational artwork to keep you inspired and productive.
Matching the mood of a room with artistic choices helps create a cohesive experience throughout your home.
Match the Color Palette
Art doesn’t have to match your room’s colors, but it should complement them. A safe rule of thumb is to choose art with one or two hues that tie into your existing décor, creating harmony without being overly “matchy.” Pro tip: If your room features neutral tones, vibrant artwork can add a stunning pop of color!
Discovering Your Style
Before you rush out to buy a piece of art, take a moment to reflect on your personal style and the design of your home. Art is deeply personal and should align with the overall theme of your space while expressing your individual taste.
Explore Different Art Styles
Start with research! Look up a variety of art styles—abstract, realism, impressionism, modern, street art, and so much more. Notice what grabs your attention. Do you prefer clean lines and geometric shapes, or do you lean toward expressive, textured works?
Pinterest, Instagram, and even art museums can be great platforms to start identifying what styles make your heart sing.
Reflect Your Personality
Think about the moods and emotions you want your space to evoke. Are you aiming for a calm, Zen-like vibe? Consider serene landscapes or minimalist pieces. Love energy and drama? Look for bold, dynamic works in bright colors.
Ultimately, the art you choose should feel like “you.” If you feel connected to a piece, that’s a good sign it belongs in your home.
Focus on Meaningful Pieces
Select artwork that tells a story or evokes personal memories. For instance, a print from a favorite vacation destination or a painting by a local artist could bring depth and emotional connection to your home. Surround yourself with art that sparks joy every time you look at it.
Complement Your Home’s Style
While art is a personal choice, it should harmonize with your overall decor. For modern spaces, go for sleek, abstract pieces. Traditional homes pair beautifully with classic oil paintings or vintage illustrations. But don’t be afraid to mix it up—juxtaposing styles can add a surprising twist and character to your space.
Budgeting for Art
Be realistic about how much you want to spend on art. Establishing a budget from the start will make your search more focused. Remember, great art doesn’t have to be expensive! Many up-and-coming artists sell high-quality prints or originals at affordable prices.
Tips for Setting a Budget
- Decide how much you’re willing to spend on wall decor in total, then break it down by priority. For example, invest in one statement piece for your living room and allocate smaller amounts for bedrooms or hallways.
- Save on framing by choosing pieces that are ready to hang or display artwork in non-traditional ways, like clips or ledges.
Affordable Artwork Options
- Prints and Posters: Prints of famous works or trendy pieces can fit just about any budget and are easy to frame for a polished look.
- Emerging Artists: New and lesser-known artists often sell their work at more affordable rates than established names.
- Thrift and Vintage Stores: Don’t overlook second-hand shops. Sometimes, you can score a one-of-a-kind piece for a steal.
- DIY Decor: If you’re feeling creative, consider creating your own art or framing unique items like wallpaper samples or meaningful photographs.
Remember, high-quality art doesn’t have to cost a fortune. It’s all about choosing pieces that resonate with you—even if they’re simple.
Sourcing Art
Now comes the fun part—finding the art that transforms your house into a home. Not sure where to find the perfect piece for your home? The good news is that there are more options than ever to help kickstart your art search.
Visit Local Galleries and Shops
Don’t underestimate the power of a local gallery. Not only will you find one-of-a-kind works, but you’ll also support artists in your community. Plus, gallery staff can provide insights into the pieces and artists.
Explore Online Platforms
Online marketplaces like Saatchi Art, Etsy, Society6, Minted, and Artfinder offer thousands of options at a range of price points. Filter by style, size, and budget to find pieces perfect for your home.
Support Independent Artists
Follow independent artists on Instagram or explore creative hubs like Behance and DeviantArt. Many offer custom commissions, allowing you to create something truly personal.
Check Out Thrift Stores and Antique Shops
For those on a budget—or anyone who loves a bit of history—thrift stores and antique shops can be treasure troves. A bit of patience and curiosity might lead you to a vintage gem packed with character.
DIY and Custom Creations
Feeling creative? Try making your own art pieces with DIY ideas! Alternatively, commission an artist for a custom piece that captures exactly what you’re looking for.
Displaying Your Art
Once you’ve chosen your pieces, it’s time to curate and arrange them to make the most visual impact. Here are some tips to guide you.
Create a Cohesive Collection
If you’re decorating an entire wall, consider how your pieces interact with each other. Stick to a consistent theme, such as black-and-white photography, botanical illustrations, or artworks that share a similar color palette. This will create a harmonious aesthetic while keeping the display interesting.
Experiment with Gallery Walls
Gallery walls are an excellent way to display multiple smaller works. Mix and match frames, sizes, and subjects to create a dynamic, layered composition. Start by laying out the pieces on the floor before committing to nail holes on the wall.
Pay Attention to Placement
The placement of art can elevate a room. Hang art at eye level (roughly 57 inches from the floor), and aim for balance—not too high, not too low. If working with a large wall, center your art relative to furniture or architectural elements for a polished look.
Mix Wall and Shelf Displays
Some pieces don’t have to be hung up—they can lean stylishly on shelves, mantels, or dressers for a more casual, contemporary display. Mixing wall art with freestanding displays also provides depth and visual variety.
Transform Your Home with Art
Choosing art for your home is an exciting opportunity to express your personality and create a welcoming atmosphere. By following these tips, you can elevate your home’s interior while making it uniquely yours.
Now it’s time to start experimenting. Art doesn’t have to be permanent—you can always rearrange, rotate, or add new pieces as your tastes evolve.
Find your new home with Discovery Homes. We have several new home communities in desirable neighborhoods throughout the Bay Area. Visit us online at DiscoveryHomes.com to learn more about our new home communities, available homes, and more.