How To Decorate An Empty Living Room Wall Art

How to Decorate an Empty Living Room Wall with Art

An empty living room wall can feel like a blank canvas, brimming with potential but also presenting a challenge. The right artwork can transform this space, adding personality, color, and a focal point that ties the room together. Choosing and arranging art, however, requires some consideration to ensure the final result enhances the room's overall aesthetic. This guide provides a framework for selecting and displaying wall art in a living room, moving beyond simple decoration to create a thoughtfully designed space.

Before selecting any artwork, consider the existing elements within the room. Analyze the color palette, furniture style, and overall ambiance. This analysis should inform the type, size, and style of art that will best complement the existing décor. For instance, a minimalist living room might benefit from a large, abstract canvas, while a room with traditional furnishings could be enhanced by classic landscape paintings or antique prints. Furthermore, consider the lighting conditions in the living room. Direct sunlight, for example, can impact the visibility of certain art pieces, while artificial lighting can be used to highlight the selected artwork, enhancing its presence within the room.

Assess the Wall's Dimensions and Proportions

The size of the wall is a critical factor in determining the appropriate scale of artwork. Measure the wall's height and width to establish the available space. A large wall can accommodate a single, oversized piece or a gallery wall, creating a dramatic impact. Conversely, a smaller wall might be better suited to several smaller pieces or a single medium-sized artwork. Also, take into account the furniture placed near the wall. The artwork should relate properly to the furniture below it. The artwork should be proportional to the furniture it hangs above, rather than either dwarfing or overwhelming it. Finally, note any architectural features such as windows, doors, and built-in elements. These features will impact where the artwork can be hung and will influence the overall layout and design.

Explore Different Types of Art and Styles

The world of art offers a vast array of styles and mediums from which to choose. Understanding the options will allow for more informed decision-making. Consider photography, paintings (oil, watercolor, acrylic), prints (lithographs, screen prints, giclée prints), sculptures, textiles, and mixed media, each offering a unique aesthetic. Explore different artistic styles, such as abstract, representational, modern, contemporary, traditional, and vintage. Different styles work better in different settings and with various décor schemes. The choice of style should reflect personal preferences and the overall aesthetic of the living room. Additionally, consider the color palettes, subject matter, and textures that will complement the existing furniture and fabrics. The right artwork will add visual interest and introduce new textures to the room.

Consider a Gallery Wall

A gallery wall presents an opportunity to showcase a collection of artwork, photographs, and other decorative objects in a cohesive display. Planning is key. Begin by gathering the chosen artworks, varying sizes and styles to create visual interest. Lay out the pieces on the floor, arranging them in a pattern that is visually appealing. Consider using frames of consistent color or style to unify the collection. When hanging the gallery wall, use a measuring tape and level to ensure that the pieces are aligned correctly, preventing the display from appearing haphazard. Experiment with different arrangements before committing to the final placement on the wall. Consider spacing the pieces evenly and leaving enough space between them to avoid a crowded appearance. Gallery walls can tell a story and provide a unique opportunity to incorporate personal items to create an inviting and personalized space.

Experiment with Placement and Height

The placement of artwork is just as important as the artwork itself. The general rule of thumb is to hang artwork at eye level, but this can be adjusted based on the size of the artwork and the height of the ceiling. When hanging artwork above furniture, such as a sofa or sideboard, leave a gap of approximately 6-12 inches between the furniture and the bottom of the artwork. This spacing helps the artwork and furniture to feel visually connected. The placement of the primary artwork can also influence the flow of the room. Try centering the artwork above the furniture, or offset it to one side depending on the desired aesthetic and functionality of the room. Moreover, lighting plays a significant role in how the artwork is perceived. Consider using picture lights or other types of spotlights to highlight the artwork and create a focal point. Finally, consider the overall balance and proportion in the room to create a visually appealing space.

Choose Appropriate Framing and Matting

Framing and matting can greatly enhance the appearance of wall art. The frame complements the style of the artwork and the overall aesthetic of the room. Select frame materials that are appropriate for the artwork and the environment. For example, wood frames can add warmth, while metal frames can give a modern feel. Mats add visual depth and separate the artwork from the frame. Choose mat colors that complement the artwork and the surrounding color scheme. Mats also protect artwork by keeping the artwork from touching the glass. Overall, framing and matting contribute to the professional presentation of the artwork, creating an investment in the overall appearance of the room.