Art is one of the most powerful elements in interior styling. It has the ability to transform a room, tie together a colour palette, set the mood, and even shift the perception of space. Whether you’re styling a property for sale or styling your own home, the right artwork doesn’t just fill a wall – it elevates the entire scheme.
But with endless options available, choosing the perfect piece can feel overwhelming. Here are five simple tips to guide you in selecting artwork that feels intentional, stylish, and perfectly suited to your space.
1. Consider Scale and Proportion
One of the most common mistakes is choosing art that is too small for the wall. A general rule: artwork should take up around two-thirds to three-quarters of the wall above a piece of furniture. For example, a large canvas above a sofa should span most of the width of the sofa, creating balance. When in doubt, bigger is usually better – oversized art makes a statement and anchors the space.
2. Think About Orientation
The shape of the wall often dictates whether you need a portrait or landscape piece. A tall, narrow wall suits a vertical artwork, while wide horizontal walls call for a landscape piece or a well-proportioned diptych. For more flexibility, consider a gallery wall – a curated collection that can grow with you and adapt to new spaces.
3. Match Mood to Room
Art has the power to influence how a space feels. In bedrooms, opt for calm, tonal works that evoke serenity. In living spaces, something bolder can create energy and spark conversation. When styling for sale, neutral or abstract pieces work best – they appeal to a wide audience while still adding texture and sophistication.
4. Layer Colour and Texture
Your artwork doesn’t need to “match” your furniture, but it should complement the overall palette. Often the artwork is the first thing stylists use to pull together a colour palette for the rest of the room. Texture also plays an important role – consider linen canvases, photographic prints, or framed works with depth to add richness and dimension.
5. Placement and Hanging Height Matter
As a guide, artwork should be hung at eye level – typically with the centre of the piece around 145–150cm from the floor. When hanging above furniture, keep the bottom edge 15-20cm above the item to visually connect the two. If you’re styling multiple pieces, leave consistent spacing (around 5-10cm) to create cohesion.
The right artwork can define a room, creating cohesion and elevating the entire styling scheme. From choosing the correct scale to balancing mood and placement, these simple guidelines will help you select pieces that feel curated rather than accidental.
At Huntley + Co, our collection of artwork has been carefully chosen with property styling in mind – versatile, timeless, and always design-led. You can view the full collection in person at our Lane Cove showroom, and we also offer professional art hanging on the day of your install to make the process seamless.
