Choosing Art That Speaks to You: A Guide for Your Home

Art has the power to transform a house into a home. The right piece can anchor a room, spark conversation, and reflect who you are. But with so many options out there—paintings, prints, photography, mixed media, it can feel overwhelming to know where to start.

Whether you’re buying your first piece or adding to a growing collection, here are some thoughtful tips to help you choose art that feels just right for your space.

Start With What You Love

Above all, choose art that resonates with you emotionally. When a piece makes you feel something, calm, inspired, joyful, it’s worth paying attention to. You’ll be living with it every day, so make sure it’s something you genuinely enjoy rather than something that simply “matches the sofa.”

Ask yourself:

• Does this piece remind me of a place, feeling, or memory I cherish?

• Can I see myself enjoying this in five or ten years?

• Do I feel a connection to the artist’s story or process?

  
  

Consider the Mood of the Room

Art contributes significantly to the atmosphere of a space.

Think about how you want the room to feel:

Living Room

For a warm and inviting space, consider abstract paintings with rich colors or photographic prints that spark conversation.

Bedroom

To create a restful and serene environment, look for calming landscapes, minimal compositions, or soft color palettes.

Home Office

For an energizing and inspiring atmosphere, choose artwork that motivates you.

Pay Attention to Size and Scale

A common mistake is choosing art that’s too small for a wall. As a rule of thumb, your artwork should cover about two-thirds to three-quarters of the wall space above a piece of furniture (like a sofa or sideboard). If the work is minimal, it can be much bigger!

If you fall in love with a smaller piece, consider grouping it with others to create a gallery wall. On the other hand, a large statement piece can serve as a powerful focal point.

Think About Colour

Art doesn’t have to match your décor exactly, but it should complement it. You can:

• Pick out one or two accent colors from your room and look for art that includes them.

• Use art to introduce contrast and energy.

• Stick to a cohesive palette across multiple pieces for harmony.

  
  

Remember: color is subjective. Trust your instincts.

Mix Styles and Mediums

Don’t be afraid to combine different styles—modern abstracts with vintage botanicals, photography with textured paintings. Mixing mediums and eras creates depth and character in your home.

If you’re unsure how to pull it together, keep a unifying element, such as a similar frame style or color family.

Support Artists and Buy What Matters to You

When you invest in original art or limited-edition prints, you’re supporting the creativity and livelihood of artists. Whether you buy from local galleries, online platforms, or art fairs, you’re bringing something unique and meaningful into your space.

Final Thoughts

Choosing art for your home isn’t about following rigid rules; it’s about creating a space that feels personal and inspiring. Take your time, trust your eye, and enjoy the process of discovering pieces that speak to you.

If you’d like help selecting artwork or have questions about sizes, framing, or styling, feel free to get in touch. I’m always happy to offer guidance. I also offer a 'try before you buy' service in my local area; get in touch if you are interested.