How to Choose Art for a Room

Day to Day

Explore how to choose art for a room in a way that brings character, balance and a true sense of personality to your space...

Choosing art for a room is often the final step in bringing a space together, and one of the most personal decisions you will make. It can feel daunting, knowing that the right piece has the power to unify everything, while the wrong one can unsettle it. Here, we share a few thoughtful considerations to help you choose art in a way that feels genuinely and unmistakably yours.

Theme

Start with what moves you. An artwork does not need to be expensive or rare. A drawing picked up at a market, a fabric from your travels, or even a collage made by your children can give a room its character. Choose what you cannot stop looking at, and the rest will follow.

Scale

One of the most common mistakes when hanging art is choosing pieces that are too small. A single modest print on a large wall can feel lost, whereas an oversized piece can anchor the room beautifully. Before hanging anything, consider the furniture beneath it, the ceiling above, and the space on either side. Art that is confidently scaled will always feel intentional.

If your artwork feels too small for the room, consider grouping pieces in even numbers to create a gallery wall that feels cohesive as a whole.

Forgotten places

Above a fireplace, a single strong piece naturally becomes the focal point of the room. However, in a hallway, above kitchen cabinetry, or even in a bathroom, a well-placed artwork can transform a transitional space into something truly engaging. Think of each wall as a composition, and look beyond the most obvious places to display your art.

Framing

We place just as much importance on the frame as on the artwork itself, and often explore creative ways to enhance and elevate each piece.

Mismatched frames in a salon-style arrangement can feel layered and full of character, while a consistent frame style across a series brings a sense of calm and cohesion. Think of the frame as the final edit, shaping how the artwork sits within the room.

If you are unsure about a piece, live with it before committing. Try propping it against a wall and leaving it there for a few days. The art that truly belongs in a space will settle so naturally that you stop noticing it, and only feel its absence if it is removed.

As a final note, avoid hanging art too high. More than anything else, art reflects who lives in a home and what they value. Choose it slowly, place it thoughtfully, and do not be afraid to move it until it feels right.