Finding artwork that resonates with both your personal style and your living environment can transform a house into a home. The right print doesn't just fill wall space—it establishes mood, enhances your existing décor, and reveals something about who you are. For design enthusiasts seeking that perfect piece, here's how to navigate the world of art prints with confidence and discernment.
Understanding Your Space
Before diving into print selections, take time to evaluate your space:
- What feeling do you want the room to evoke?
- How is the natural light distributed throughout the day?
- What color palette already exists in your furnishings and décor?
A small, north-facing room might benefit from bright, expansive imagery that creates a sense of depth, while a well-lit social area could handle bold, conversation-starting pieces.
"The perfect print doesn't just complement a space—it completes it."
Scale Matters Tremendously
One of the most common mistakes in selecting prints is misjudging scale. An undersized print can look awkward and afterthought-like, while an oversized piece might overwhelm the surrounding elements.
For substantial walls:
- Consider large statement pieces (24×36 inches or larger)
- Try a diptych or triptych for horizontal expanses
- Embrace dramatic scale for maximum impact
For smaller spaces or transitional areas, intimate prints (8×10 to 11×14 inches) create moments of discovery without dominating the visual field.
Content That Connects
The subject matter of your print should forge a meaningful connection—either with you personally or with the space itself. Consider:
For personal spaces like bedrooms: Choose images that bring you genuine joy or tranquility. These prints should speak to your inner self rather than guests.
For social areas: Select pieces that prompt conversation or reflect shared experiences among household members and visitors.
Color Psychology
Color isn't merely decorative—it's experiential. When selecting prints:
- Blues and greens tend to create calm, contemplative environments
- Warm oranges and reds energize spaces
- Monochromatic prints offer sophistication and timelessness
- Vibrant, contrasting colors create focal points
"The colors in your chosen print should either harmonize with your existing palette or provide intentional contrast—never compete."
Your print's dominant colors should either complement your existing palette or provide an intentional contrast that enlivens the space.
Framing Considerations
The frame is not an afterthought—it's integral to how a print interacts with your space.
A minimalist black or white frame creates a clean, contemporary look that allows the image to take center stage. Natural wood frames add warmth and can bridge modern prints with more traditional interiors. Museum-quality framing with appropriate matting elevates even modestly priced prints to statement pieces.
Test Before Committing
Before making your final selection:
- Use painter's tape to outline where the framed print will hang
- Try paper mock-ups in different positions
- Consider how the print looks from various angles in the room
- Observe it at different times of day as lighting changes
This simple step can prevent costly mistakes and ensure your selection truly enhances your space.
A thoughtfully chosen print does more than decorate—it articulates your aesthetic sensibilities and transforms how you experience your environment daily. Take your time with this decision, and you'll find a piece that continues to resonate year after year.
