Arthaus Academy

Choosing the Right Size of Art Pieces for Your Home

Title: Choosing the Right Size of Art Pieces for Your Home

Incorporating art into your home decor is a unique way of expressing your personality whilst adding character and colour to your space. However, the task of choosing the right size art pieces for your home can seem daunting, especially when you're offered a plethora of choices on an art wall.

This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide, giving you a better understanding of suitable dimensions, and which kind of spaces they could be hung to further enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home.

Why is the Size of Art Pieces Important?

The right size artwork can transform a room entirely, from a space that feels cramped to one that feels spacious, cohesive, and well put together. When the proportion and scale are well balanced, it can create a harmonious visual flow that adds depth to the room. Conversely, art that is too large can make your space look smaller, while a piece that's too small can make your walls look sparse and empty.

Determining the Proper Size:

To select the right artwork, start by measuring the space where your masterpiece will be placed. Typically, artwork should take up about two-thirds to three-fourths of the wall. More specifically:

Living Room – Over a sofa or mantle, artwork should span approximately two-thirds of the furniture piece in width. If the art is too small, it will become visually lost. For an extensive wall without furniture against it, consider several larger pieces or a gallery wall of smaller pieces.

Dining Room/Kitchen – Given that these areas are often casual, smaller pieces can work, especially if grouped. However, above a dining room sideboard or kitchen countertop, a larger piece can be a perfect focal point.

Bedroom – Over the headboard or any other bedroom furniture piece, go for artwork two-thirds the width of the furniture. For a bold statement, a large piece of art or a collection of smaller pieces can stretch all the way.

Entryway/Hallway – Large pieces can help draw your eye through the space, but they must not overwhelm it in size. For narrow hallways, consider a series of smaller pieces.

The Scale of Artwork:

It's also important to think about the scale of artwork relative to the space and the other elements present. Large pieces in a small room could create a ‘gallery-like’ feel, while small pieces on large walls might appear underwhelming.

Grouped Art Pieces or Gallery Walls:

Gallery walls or grouped pieces of art are a fantastic way to fill larger spaces or work cohesively with the furniture below. A well-designed gallery wall can turn an empty space into a focal point, mixing colours, sizes, and textures while providing a whole new aspect of interest.

Ultimately, choosing the right size art for your home is about balance, proportion and scale. Additionally, it's important to choose pieces you love. This guideline is meant to help you navigate your decision, but remember to trust your instincts. After all, art is a personal expression and if a piece truly resonates with you, the chances are it will work beautifully within your space.

In conclusion, integrating artwork into your home decor is largely an intuitive process. The size of an art piece should not only be determined by the dimensions of your interior but also by the feeling it imparts within the space. By following these guidelines, you can create a harmonious balance and contribute to the overall aesthetic of your home living space.