Choosing & Displaying Art in Your Home

Find Focal Points. What is the focal point of the room or space or where do you want to direct the eye? An area that draws your attention is a great place to display art.

Consider Scale. Determine how much space you have available for art and seek pieces that are the right size for this space. A rule of thumb is that art should fill about 2/3 of the available space. When your goal is to maximize impact, try selecting abstract art in a large format. (Photo compliments of John-Richard)

Color is Key. Art should complement other furnishings, pillows, rugs, throws and window treatments. Ensure a consistent color palette is kept in the room when adding art or try beginning your room design from scratch based on your favorite painting!

What’s the “right” Height? Most often, you’ll want too hang art with its center at eye level. When hanging art above a sofa or another piece of furniture, like a credenza, keep the bottom edge of the frame 6-12 inches above the furniture. Of course, there are always exceptions to this based on the overall configuration of the wall, room ceiling heights and accessory arrangement.

Create a Common Theme. Use work by the same artist or works that have a common style to add cohesiveness.

Introduce Different Mediums. Introducing other mediums such as metal, glass, dimensional pieces or photography can be intermixed and uniquely compliment painted works.  (Photo compliments of Viz Glass)

Lighting is Important. Lastly, to get the most impact out of your art pieces, ensure that the art is enhanced by great lighting. Whether it’s frontal light, backlighting or side lighting, accentuating your piece with the proper illumination makes a huge difference on how it communicates in your room.