The confident way to turn blank walls into talking points.
, by Sarah Frame, 2 min reading time
Choosing art for your home can feel daunting, especially if you're not confident in your ability to pick the "right" piece.
It’s not just nerve-wracking because artwork can be expensive. Even affordable art can be hard to settle on because putting something centre stage on your wall takes a bit of confidence.
But don't worry—it's easier than you might think.
Whether you're eyeing a painting, a poster, or a print, the key is to consider how the artwork fits into your room's colour scheme.
You could start by looking at the dominant colours. Maybe you have a striking rug or eye-opening cushions.
If your room is mostly neutral, like beige or grey, you have more flexibility. Almost any artwork will stand out against a neutral backdrop. If your room has bold colours, like deep blues or bright yellows, look for art that either complements or contrasts with these shades.
(Did you read our blog post about beige? You should.)
Complementing and contrasting are two main approaches when choosing art.
Complementing? You can choose art that matches the existing colours in your room. For example, if you have a room with soft greens and blues, a piece of art with similar tones will create a soothing, cohesive feel.
Contrasting? Complementary colours are those that sit opposite each other on the colour wheel, like blue and orange or red and green. A piece of art with these colours can add a lively contrast to your space. Think of that rug or those cushions and create a kind of visual competition.
Another way to approach this is to think of the mood you’d like to create.
Warm colours like reds, oranges, and yellows tend to energise a room, while cool colours like blues and greens create a calming atmosphere. Art with black, white, or grey can add a touch of elegance or simplicity.
Then there’s size. A large piece can be a statement on a blank wall, while smaller pieces work well in groups. Make sure the piece is in proportion to the wall it’s on—too small, and it might look lost. Too large, and it could overwhelm the space.
Finally, remember that choosing art is a matter of taste. Your taste.
Art is personal and what you choose should be something you enjoy looking at. It doesn’t need to be expensive or from a famous artist. The right piece is one that makes you happy every time you see it.