Art Tips

Ten Tips for Decorating with Wall Art

The right wall art can add much to, or even transform a room. It can add warmth, personality and sophistication—and can become the element that ties everything together. Whether you’re decorating a new space or refreshing your existing décor, these simple tips will help you choose and display art beautifully and confidently.

1. Start with what you love.
Choose art that speaks to you emotionally. Trends come and go, but a piece you genuinely love will always feel right in your home. Art should make you smile, calm you, or inspire you—every time you see it.

2. Match the mood, not just the colors.
Think about the atmosphere you want to create in each room. A calm, minimal landscape may suit a bedroom, while a bold abstract can energize a living space or office. Let feeling guide your choices as much as palette.

3. Choose the right size.
Artwork that’s too small can get lost, while something too large can overwhelm. A good rule of thumb: the art should fill about two-thirds to three-quarters of the wall space above furniture. For large empty walls, consider a gallery arrangement or oversized canvas.

4. Consider your wall and lighting.
Art looks best when properly lit and placed. Soft, indirect light flatters most pieces. Avoid direct sunlight, which can fade colors over time. For darker spaces, consider adding a picture light or nearby lamp.

5. Mix and match styles confidently. 
Don’t feel confined to one art style. Combining photography, abstract pieces, and even AI-enhanced digital art can create visual interest. The key is balance—repeat colors, tones, or framing materials to keep things cohesive.

6. Create a gallery wall.
A gallery wall adds instant personality. Combine artworks of different sizes and shapes, but maintain a consistent theme—such as similar color tones, subject matter, or frame finishes. Lay it out on the floor first to find a pleasing arrangement before hanging.

7. Let art define your space. 
Use art to set the tone for an area. A serene seascape in a bathroom, a lively cityscape in an office, or a soft floral print in a bedroom can all enhance a room’s function and mood.

8. Don’t forget hallways and small spaces.
Hallways, staircases, and corners are perfect places for art. These often-overlooked areas can become mini galleries, adding surprise and delight as you move through your home.

9. Use framing to enhance (not distract).
Choose frames that complement both the artwork and your décor. Simple, modern frames suit contemporary pieces, while wood tones or metallics can warm up more traditional rooms. For stretched canvas art, you may not need a frame at all—its clean edges often look perfect as-is.

10. Refresh over time.
Your home—and your taste—will evolve. Rotate artwork seasonally or when you redecorate. Moving a piece to a new location can make it feel completely new again and keep your space fresh.

Conclusion. 
Decorating with wall art isn’t about following strict rules—it’s about creating a home that feels authentic and inspiring. Whether you start with one meaningful piece or build a full collection, each work of art adds a little more of you to your space.