Create a home you love: Choosing art for every room
Art can transform a house into a home. It’s more than just filling empty wall space: It’s about injecting personality, sparking conversation, and creating an environment that resonates with you on a personal level.
A carefully chosen piece can evoke a specific mood, whether it’s a calming landscape in the bedroom or a vibrant abstract in the living room. It tells your story and reflects your tastes and experiences. By thoughtfully selecting your art collection, you are shaping the ambiance of your home, creating a space that reflects your personality and style.
Beyond the aesthetic appeal, art can also be a powerful tool for self-expression. It’s a way to highlight your passions in life. Whether you’re drawn to bold colours and abstract forms or prefer the delicate details of botanical prints, the art you choose speaks volumes about who you are.
Additionally, the process of selecting and arranging art can be incredibly rewarding. It encourages you to explore different styles, discover new artists, and develop a deeper appreciation for the creative process.
Ultimately, the transformative power of art lies in its ability to elevate the everyday. It’s about more than just having beautiful things: it’s about creating a space that inspires you, comforts you, and brings you joy. Imagine walking into a room filled with artwork that you love, pieces that evoke happy memories, or simply make you smile.That’s the power of art.
1/ Understanding your taste:
Discovering your art style is a journey of self-reflection and exploration. It’s not about following trends or what you think you should like, but rather about uncovering what resonates with you. This process might seem daunting, but it can be an exciting adventure that enables you to create a home that you love.
What speaks to you?
Start by considering your existing décor. What colours, textures, and styles are already present in your home? Do you gravitate towards minimalist aesthetics, or do you prefer a more eclectic and layered look? Think about the places you love, perhaps a cosy cabin in the woods, a vibrant city apartment, or a serene beach house.
What elements of those spaces appeal to you? Consider your hobbies and interests. Are you passionate about nature, music, history, or travel? These passions can often translate into your art preferences.
Visualising your style:
Creating a mood board can be helpful to visualise your style. Gather images from magazines, online platforms like Pinterest, or even take photos of things that inspire you. Include not just artwork, but also fabrics, colours, textures, and any other visual elements that catch your eye. As you compile your mood board, you’ll likely start to see patterns and connections emerge. This visual representation can serve as a valuable reference point as you begin to select artwork for your home.
Broadening your horizons:
Familiarise yourself with different art styles, from classic to contemporary, from abstract to representational. Visit art museums, galleries, and online art platforms. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and explore genres you haven’t considered before.
There is no right or wrong when it comes to taste. The goal is to find what you connect with, regardless of current trends.
2/ Art considerations for every room:
Choosing art for your home isn’t a one-size-fits-all endeavour. Each room serves a different purpose and has its own unique atmosphere. Therefore, the art you buy should complement the function and mood of the space.
Living room:
The living room is often the heart of the home, a space for gatherings and entertainment. Art in this room should create a focal point. Consider larger statement pieces that command attention, such as a bold abstract painting or a striking photograph. Alternatively, you could create a gallery wall with a collection of smaller works that tell a story. Think about the scale of the room and choose pieces that are appropriately sized. The colour palette should complement your existing décor and contribute to the overall atmosphere you want to create, whether it’s warm and inviting or sleek and modern.
Bedroom:
The bedroom is your personal sanctuary, a place for rest and relaxation. Art in this room should promote a sense of calm and tranquillity. Consider calming landscapes, abstract art with soothing colours, or personal photographs that evoke happy memories. Avoid overly stimulating or busy paintings that might disrupt sleep. The scale of the art should be appropriate for the space, and the framing should complement the overall style of the room. Creating a peaceful and personal atmosphere is important in the bedroom.
Kitchen:
The kitchen is a busy and functional space, but that doesn’t mean it can’t also be stylish and inviting. Art in the kitchen can add personality and a touch of whimsy. Consider food-themed art, bright and colourful prints, or quirky illustrations. Durability and easy cleaning are important considerations for art in this room, as it can be prone to spills and splashes.
Bathroom:
The bathroom can be transformed into a spa-like retreat with the right art. Consider serene landscapes, abstract art with calming colours, or botanical prints. Moisture resistance is a crucial factor to consider when choosing art for the bathroom. Opt for pieces that are framed with materials that can withstand humidity and avoid paper-based artwork that might easily get damaged.
Hallways and entryways:
Hallways and entryways are often overlooked, but they are the first impression guests have of your home. Art in these spaces should create a welcoming and visually interesting atmosphere. Long, horizontal pieces can work well in hallways, while a series of smaller paintings or a single statement piece can be effective here. Consider the flow of the space and choose pieces that guide the eye and create a sense of movement.
3/ Practical tips for choosing and placing art:
Selecting the perfect art is only half the battle. Knowing how to properly place and display your pieces is equally important for maximising their impact and creating a harmonious environment. Here are some practical tips to guide you through the process:
Scale and proportion:
Scale and proportion are important considerations when choosing art. A tiny print will get lost on a large, empty wall, while an oversized painting might overwhelm a small room. Measure the wall space where you plan to hang your artwork and choose pieces that are appropriately sized. Consider the furniture in the room as well. A piece hung above a sofa should be proportional to the size of the sofa itself.
Framing and matting:
Framing and matting play a significant role in how artwork is perceived. The frame should complement the style of the artwork and the surrounding décor. A simple, clean frame might be best for a contemporary piece, while a more ornate frame could suit a traditional painting. Matting can add depth and create a buffer between the artwork and the frame. Consider the colour and width of the matting. A wider mat can make a smaller piece feel more substantial, while a coloured mat can add a pop of personality.
Creating a home you love takes time and consideration and is also a personal endeavour; art plays a vital part in that process. By understanding your own taste, carefully considering the specific needs of each room, and following some practical tips for placement and display, you can transform your house into a haven that reflects your style and brings you joy.
Remember that curating an art collection is a journey and not a destination. Experiment, trust your instincts, and most of all, have fun.
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