They say, “the eyes are the window to the soul.” Our Arizona-based designers believe the same. We know for certain art is the personality of a room. It’s the bridge that connects the physical space with one’s inner world & experiences… which explains why it deserves the most attention and planning.
Whether you’re a collector or just looking to liven up the interior with a piece or two, we will talk about the top tips to utilize the power of art to the fullest—so stay with us 🥳
The Role of Art in Interior Design
Art is more than just aesthetics. It’s the key to personalization, a way to reveal a homeowner’s personality, interests, and unique style. It’s the secret to interesting storytelling, where each piece has a narrative, whether it’s tied to the artist, the medium, or the memories it evokes. It’s a gateway to introducing sophistication—and balance. Basically, artwork serves everything you could expect from a well-curated space that feels both intentional and inviting.
That said, incorporating art in interior design isn’t just purchasing and hanging pieces. It’s a lot more than that—the outline of which we will discuss below to spark ideas.
Start with a Focal Point
Don’t get straight to decorating around a collection of art. First, take your time to identify a focal point. That could be a specific piece of art or a particular area of the room you want to draw attention to. Then, you can design the rest of the space around it. Though this might seem like a minor step, it’s actually the secret to a cohesive, well-thought-out interior, especially if you use the focal point strategically by extracting hues and patterns within it and repeating them elsewhere in the room.
Consider the Color Scheme
Artwork cannot be chosen in isolation from the color scheme. Even if your room is completely empty, there needs to be some plan in mind for what the palette will be and, hence, what colors the artwork can feature. Complementary or contrasting, each piece needs to add to the decor, not subtract from it in any way.
Take a Look at the Scale
The scale doesn’t only mean the size of the room, or the size of the artwork. The scale of furniture, the scale of lighting, and the scale of architectural elements are equally important. Consider whether you want to create a statement with bold pieces, or keep things soft with more subtle additions. A single, large piece, for example, can add true luxury, while a collection of multiple, smaller frames make for a more layered, collected-over-time feel.
Mix and Match Styles
If you, too, like most of us, can’t design on a single design style, artwork is the perfect opportunity to mix & match two (or more) aesthetics. Contemporary and traditional, for example, work together beautifully, as do industrial and vintage. There are not many boundaries here, except making sure that no piece competes with the other.
Consider Lighting
Just like good lighting enhances the overall design, it elevates the artwork, too. Opt for accent lighting that particularly highlights your favorite pieces. Think picture lights, recessed lighting, track lighting, wall sconces, or whatever accentuates the artwork in the room. Natural light also plays a role. Consider how sunlight interacts with your artwork throughout the day to prevent glare or fading.
Think Placement
Color scheme? Chosen. Artwork? Chosen. Placement? Yet to be decided. That’s where the magic happens. The location of the artwork can completely change the energy of the room. Hang a statement piece at eye level to create instant impact, or lean a large canvas casually against the wall for a more relaxed, gallery-style look. Layer smaller pieces on shelves, mantels, or sideboards for a collected feel.
Symmetry brings order, while asymmetry adds personality. A perfectly centered artwork above a sofa exudes balance, while an off-center arrangement introduces a dynamic, lived-in aesthetic. And don’t be afraid of empty space. Sometimes, the key to enhancing the presence of the artwork even more is to let it breathe 😉
Showcase Individuality
Art goes beyond decoration. It’s a medium for self-expression, infusing spaces with personality. It transforms homes into living reflections of the values and stories of those who live within. Every carefully chosen piece shapes the ambiance, creating more than just visual interest. By picking artwork that resonates with personalities, homeowners craft interiors that authentically mirror their identity.
Incorporate Diverse Art Forms
Who says art is limited to sculptures and paintings? Definitely not us. There’s so much to explore, almost unlimited options. Textiles. Photography. Ceramics. Wall decals. Mixed media art. Tapestries. Metal art. Calligraphy. Each choice is equally stunning when picked carefully.
Personalize the Art
Your home is meant to reflect your personality, and artwork is a great way to personalize things. For example, art pieces that have sentimental value, like family photographs, can add much-needed warmth. Likewise, DIY creations showcasing your skills tell only a story you can tell. Remember, it’s always these little details that can make a home feel authentically yours.
Invest in What You Love
Artwork will catch the eye as soon as you enter the room, so it should be something that evokes emotion or sparks joy. Could be an artist you admire. A travel memory. A statement piece that captures your attention. The key is to let your personal connection guide your selection. No limitations, no restrictions. Just choose what you love.
Take Artwork to Every Room
Wall decor isn’t only for the living room or bedroom; it’s also welcomed in the bathroom and kitchen, with fun ideas including…
- Artwork in powder rooms (or above bathtubs).
- A series of smaller artworks in a hallway for a gallery-like experience.
- A bold, dramatic piece on a feature wall in the dining room.
- Framed vintage food illustrations in the kitchen.
- Sculptural wall art in the entryway.
- Hanging textiles in the nursery.
- Whimsical prints in children’s rooms.
Use Artwork as the Finishing Touch
Chosen towards the end of the design process, the right artwork can be the finishing touch that brings the space together. A well-chosen piece can tie different parts of the room, or can introduce something that was missing, like vibrancy, personality, or depth.
We love decorating toned-down interiors that act as the perfect backdrop for loud artwork. Muted colors and soft decor make sure the wall hangings remain the focal point—allowing their expressions to take centerstage.
The selection process may consist of browsing articles from your favorite designers to find the perfect piece, or, for larger projects, consulting art galleries to develop a curated portfolio for the space.
Final Words
Art is a super powerful tool in interior design, one that can make or break a room in seconds. It enhances the aesthetics. Sets the mood. Adds the finishing touch that ties everything together. Really one of the features that makes the space feel truly your own. So, go ahead, let your walls say your story in the best way possible 💛