Art that works
May 10, 2026
Artwork in a home can often be overlooked, even thought of as a last-minute requirement simply to fill a void. But should this be the case? Art is more than just a space-filler, when it is well curated it can transform and elevate any room. Art should be intentional and set the tone of the space while enhancing the overall design aesthetic. It is – or should be – a reflection of those who inhabit the home.
The role of artwork in your space
Understanding the role your artwork plays in your space is important. A vibrant abstract can create energy; a subtle landscape can be calm and peaceful. A gallery wall of travel and family could add a sense of emotion and nostalgia, while an oversized colourful piece could evoke drama. The colours, textures and forms found within the compositions should be complementary to the surroundings of the room to create harmony and balance within your space, adding not only visual interest but also depth to the design. You can use pieces of art to make a statement, create a focal point or simply add a subtle nuance to a small little corner of a room. Art can be the starting point when designing or it could be that extra layer that is needed when creating a well-curated space.
Whether you are working with original art, simple prints you fell in love with, photography from your travels or some great vintage pieces you found while thrifting, you need to decide the role these pieces will have within your space. Is the artwork to be used as the inspiration for your designs, a strong focal point within space or simply be a piece that accompanies and completes the overall design? However you decide to incorporate these pieces, know that they will certainly add dimension, richness and interest to the area.
So, the question remains, how do you design a space to highlight your art. One of the more classic and easiest ways to co-ordinate your art selections within your living spaces is drawing on colour. This is not about having your art “match” everything in the space, but rather developing a palette of colour and texture throughout that will support the pieces. This could be a simple repetition of some of the colours found within the piece through paint, fabric and accessories which will help to strengthen the visual impact of the art. A coordination and balance of colour, pattern and texture within your decor will draw you into the room and visually highlight the art.
Impactful focal point
For a more modern approach, the design of a room can be a little more restrained, both in colour and composition, allowing the art to become more of an impactful focal point. With the use of strategically placed directional lighting you can add another element to highlighting your art and truly make it the centre of attention. When working with strong or large scaled pieces of art, put some thought in to how you’d like to display these pieces and make the design or decor of your space complement them instead of just allowing the art to exist. If you are selecting fresh pieces for your room, select wisely, in both size and composition. Look to creating groupings or collages, with some smaller sized pieces to avoid simply hanging a single piece per wall. While art is subjective and personal, it does need to vibe with the space it will be in to truly shine.
Art can be statement-making and elevate your space, but it should also mean something to you and make you happy. Make a bold statement with your art selections or create a calm and relaxing environment, whichever suits your personality and style best. Be creative with your selections, and don’t be afraid to play with scale as well. A large piece on a smaller wall can really make an impact in a room, and the same goes for the reverse. Whatever your inspiration is, just don’t underestimate the importance of art in your home, or the selections within your collection. Your art is a reflection of you, your life, your history, your travels… have fun with it and don’t be shy to show your true self.