How to choose art that suits your home decor

Choosing the right art to match your home decor can feel a bit overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be! Let's dive into some tips and tricks to help you pick pieces that not only complement your space but also bring you joy.

What is your personal style for home decor?

Before you start adding art to your cart, understand your personal style and the vibe of your home. Do you like modern, minimalist designs, or do you lean more towards a rustic, cosy aesthetic? Knowing this will guide you in picking art that feels cohesive with the rest of your decor.

Modern minimalist art for contemporary home decor

If your home is filled with sleek, contemporary furniture, abstract art or black and white paintings or photography might be a perfect fit. These types of art often emphasise clean lines and simple colour schemes that can seamlessly blend into a modern setting.

Rustic art for cosy home vibes

For those with a more traditional setup, consider classic paintings or vintage prints. Art that features natural landscapes, rustic scenes, or antique maps can add a warm, inviting touch to your home. You’ll find a lot of this type of art in our shop!

Choosing art based on space and wall size

Think about where the art will be hung. The size and shape of the wall space can significantly influence the type of art you should choose.

What kind of art is suitable for large walls?

Large, blank walls can handle big, bold pieces. A single, oversized painting or a dramatic mural can serve as a stunning focal point in a room, drawing the eye and setting the tone for the entire space.

What kind of art is suitable for smaller spaces?

Smaller spaces might be better suited for a series of smaller artworks or a gallery wall. Grouping smaller pieces together can create a cohesive look and add visual interest without overwhelming the space.

Bedroom art vs living room art?

Also, consider the room's function when selecting your art:

• Bedroom art: A serene landscape or abstract art with calming colors might be perfect for a bedroom, creating a peaceful retreat.
• Living room or home office art: A vibrant, energetic piece could be great for a living room or home office, adding a burst of creativity and inspiration.

Colour coordinating your home decor

I probably don’t have to tell you that colour is key when it comes to selecting art. You don't need to match everything perfectly but you do want the colours in your artwork to complement your existing decor.

How to match art colours with home decor

Look for pieces that include some of the colours already in your room whether it's the wall colour, furniture, or accent pieces. This will help create a harmonious look. For example, if your sofa is a deep blue, think about including artwork that incorporates similar shades of blue.

Add bold colours to neutral decor

If your decor is mostly neutral, don't be afraid to choose art with bold colours to add a pop of interest. Bright, vibrant pieces can act as the centrepiece of a room and bring an otherwise muted space to life.

Use contrasting colours in art and decor

Sometimes, contrasting colours can make a statement. If your room mostly features cool tones, a warm-coloured piece can create an eye-catching contrast. You can use a colour wheel to find complementary colours that will enhance your space.

Emotional connection with your home decor

Choose art that speaks to you personally. This might be a piece that reminds you of a favourite place, evokes a certain feeling, or simply makes you happy every time you look at it.

Choose art with personal significance

Art is a great way to express your personality and tell your story, so go with pieces that resonate with you on a deeper level. Maybe it's a painting of a city you love, or an abstract piece that feels like it captures your inner thoughts.

Select art with emotional impact

Select pieces that evoke emotions or memories. Art has the power to transport you to different times and places, making your home a more personalised and meaningful space. Of course this includes photos of your family and friends, which will be sure to put a smile on your face.

Mix and match different art styles and mediums

Don't be afraid to mix different styles and mediums. A diverse collection can add depth and interest to your home.

You might pair a contemporary painting with a vintage poster. This mix can create a dynamic and eclectic look that feels unique to your space.

Consider mixing photographs with illustrations. The contrast between different mediums can add texture and complexity to your decor.

The key is to find a common thread to tie everything together:

• Use similar colour palettes
• Choose a common theme
• Select pieces that evoke a similar mood

Choosing the right frame for your art

The frame can make a big difference in how a piece of art looks in your space.

How to frame modern art

A modern piece might look great with a sleek, minimal frame. This can enhance the contemporary feel and keep the focus on the artwork itself.

How to frame classic paintings

A classic painting might benefit from an ornate, traditional frame. This can add a touch of elegance and make the piece feel more substantial.

Complement existing decor with frames

Consider the existing elements in your room and choose frames that complement them. Ensure that the frames match the overall decor style of your room. For example, wooden frames might work well in a rustic setting, while metal frames might be better suited for a modern space.

The importance of lighting for art

Lighting is always important, and that is especially true for art. Proper lighting can enhance the colours and details of your art, making it stand out even more.

Use picture lights for art

Use picture lights to highlight your art. These can be mounted directly above the artwork and provide focused lighting that brings out the details.

Track lighting for flexible art display

Consider track lighting for a more flexible option. This allows you to adjust the direction of the lights, making it easy to highlight multiple pieces or change the focus as needed.

Enhance art with lamps

Strategically placed lamps can also enhance your art. Table lamps or floor lamps with adjustable arms can provide additional lighting where needed, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Where to get affordable art

Budget can be a big factor in choosing art, but art doesn’t have to be expensive to be meaningful or impactful.

There are many sources for affordable art, from local art fairs and online platforms to prints of famous works. Apart from our own shop here, we also recommend checking out Etsy for affordable, unique and vintage artworks.

You can also explore DIY options, creating your own art or framing meaningful objects.

Trust your instincts when choosing art

At the end of the day, trust your instincts. If you love a piece of art, it will likely find a place in your home where it fits perfectly.

Your home should be a reflection of you, and the art you choose is a big part of that. Don't be afraid to let your personality shine through in your selections.

Select pieces that make you happy. Art is a deeply personal choice, and the right piece for you is the one that resonates with you on an emotional level.

Final thoughts

Choosing art for your home is a personal and enjoyable process. By considering your style, space, colour palette, and emotional connection to the pieces, you'll be able to curate a collection that truly enhances your home decor. Happy decorating!

 

Image credit: The artwork featured above is available for purchase here at Small Lily Studio. Browse our range of Frame TV and printable wall art.