Choosing and displaying art can truly transform a space, giving it character and depth that reflects your personal taste. However, finding the right artwork and knowing how to showcase it can sometimes feel overwhelming. As the UK’s leading independent art gallery, we’re here to make the process enjoyable and accessible, helping you discover pieces that resonate with you and find their perfect place in your home.
Here are ten ideas to guide you on your art journey. After reading we highly recommend you explore our top rated Art for Every Room blog series for further inspiration and ideas.
1. Start with What Speaks to You
Art should be more than just a decorative element—it should be something that resonates with you on a deeper level. Before you begin shopping, think about the mediums and styles that appeal to you. Whether it’s a painting, photograph, or sculpture, choose pieces that reflect your personality and experiences.
2. Think About Size and Space
When selecting art, consider the size of your wall space. A good rule of thumb is to have the artwork cover two-thirds to three-quarters of the wall. For contemporary pieces, larger works can create a powerful impact, but if you’re not ready for that investment, a gallery wall of smaller pieces can be just as striking.
3. Hang at Eye Level
To create a balanced look, hang your art at eye level. If the room is used mostly for sitting, like a living room, hang it lower to align with the seated eye level. If it’s a hallway or a room where people are mostly standing, hang it higher to match the standing eye level.
4. Choose the Right Frame
The framing of your artwork can significantly affect its presentation. Photography often looks best in Plexiglas or acrylic frames, which provide a sleek and modern finish. Don’t be afraid to experiment with edgy or unconventional frames to make a bold statement.
5. Consider the Space Above Furniture
When hanging art above furniture like a sofa or credenza, leave 6 to 12 inches of space between the bottom of the frame and the top of the furniture. This creates a cohesive and balanced look without overwhelming the space.
6. Create a Gallery Wall
If you’re working with a budget or want to display a collection, consider creating a gallery wall. Group smaller prints or pieces together to fill the space where a larger artwork might go. This approach adds personality and a curated feel to your room
7. Use Textiles as Art
For a unique and budget-friendly option, consider stretching a high-quality textile across a canvas or stretcher bars. This can create a stunning visual piece that adds texture and warmth to your space.
8. Integrate Art with Technology
Incorporating a flat-screen TV into your design scheme can be tricky, but a lively gallery wall around the TV can help it blend into the room’s décor. The artwork draws the eye and makes the TV less of a focal point
9. Create Cohesion with Colour
Use art to tie a room’s colour palette together. For example, match the tones in your artwork with the colours of your pillows, rugs, or other decor elements to create a cohesive and harmonious look.
10. Let Art Inspire Your Space
Consider using a piece of art as the inspiration for an entire room’s design. Whether it’s the colour palette, materials, or overall theme, starting with a piece you love can guide your choices for the rest of the space, making the art feel like a natural, integral part of the room.
Discover More at Watergate Art
Ready to find the perfect piece for your home? Explore our latest collections and let us help you create a space that’s not only beautiful but deeply personal. Whether you’re starting a new collection or adding to an existing one, we’re here to offer advice and inspiration every step of the way through our complimentary art advisory service
Complimentary Art Commissioning Service
Commissioning art is a meaningful and highly personalised way to acquire artwork. It’s an experience that allows you to be closely involved in shaping a piece perfectly suited to your vision and space.
If you really like a work of art but it's already sold or you are looking to get something a little more personalised, we offer a complimentary art commissioning service for free. We go beyond simple introductions, acting as your dedicated guide and intermediary, ensuring a seamless collaboration between you and the artist.