Art has the ability to centre a space, shape a room’s mood and provide a starting point from which colours, textures and furniture unfold. When used thoughtfully, it becomes the anchor, the element that draws the eye and gives the room its rhythm. On today’s blog, we’re exploring how art can anchor a space and bring depth, balance and personality to your interiors.
Consider Scale
A large canvas, confidently placed, doesn’t just fill a wall, it defines the proportions of the space. In the Garden Suite at Warren Street Hotel, an abstract artwork in shades of green and turquoise creates contrast against a palette of oranges and yellows. Positioned above the console table, it becomes an immediate focal point and a statement piece as soon as you enter.
On the other hand, a gallery wall above a headboard draws the eye upward, adding height, visual drama and a strong focal point. Rather than feeling overly formal, the mix of subjects and frames feels intentionally curated, creating a space that’s layered, personal and full of character.
Build Layers
Artwork can be a tool for layering, working in harmony with fabrics, wall finishes, and furniture to enrich the story of a room. When an artwork uses the same tonal colours as the walling, as we did in this residential project, it can create a sense of tranquillity while allowing textiles and furniture to shine.
Below, a mosaic artwork reflects the geometric pattern of our Kit’s Wing Chair. Its tones of blue and brown echo both the hard finishes and the fabrics of the furniture. Placed in an otherwise quiet corner, the artwork brings the space to life and gives purpose to what might otherwise be a forgotten space.
Layers can also be created through contrast. In a room filled with bold patterns and colours, we introduced a golden-hued painting. Its simplicity brought balance and calmness to the explosion of colour.
Mix the Artwork
Art doesn’t have to be a masterpiece to make an impact. The warmth of a room often comes from mixing the special piece with the unexpected: a quirky drawing from a loved one, a market find, or a textile fragment.
The frame becomes as important as the piece itself, elevating the everyday and creating dialogue between high art and humble treasures. This mix is what makes a space feel lived in and deeply personal.
Let Art Take the Lead
Every piece of art you choose anchors not only the room but also your story. A tapestry might recall a journey, while a sculpture might hint at curiosity and play. When art takes the lead, it becomes the element that stops guests, makes them look twice and sparks conversation.
When designing a room, never underestimate the power of artwork. It can set the mood, define the scale, layer the story, and weave memory into design. Whether commanding attention or quietly blending with its surroundings, art ensures the room has a centre.