Wall decor, wall decor, wall decor - I just don't know what to hang up! I hear this all the time because people simply don't know what they like. My recommendation is always the same if the client wants to be more involved with the selection of these items - spend some time in framing shops, accessory shops, furniture stores, and browsing on-line art sites and make notes of what is appealing to you. Are botanical prints inspiring? Maybe it's works of art (or copy prints) by the Masters that you find captivating. Are three-dimensional pieces what catches your eye? No matter what you take an interest in, they can always be worked into any interior decorating scheme.
The first rule of thumb when selecting wall décor is to choose
items that reflect your personal style and interests first – this will usually be your best
bet. If you’re not sure ‘what’ you should be looking for, let the palette of
the room be your guide, and select items you will appreciate looking at.
If you prefer more of a formal look – stick to a single
color, style, or theme. For a more casual look - mix colors, styles, and
textures. Occasionally, the only linking aspects of wall décor may be their
variety and differences. Confidence is required for this type of application so
it’s best to seek professional help.
Wall decor consisting of vibrant
colors will create excitement and draw your eye to them, while neutral colors soothe and become style backdrops. Neutrals can be black, white,
or sepia. In rooms that seem a bit lackluster, look for pieces that are
inspirational such as objects or images relating to travel.
If you have the opportunity to select framing and matting for artwork – oils, prints, or photos - always consider what is best for the piece of art first, then think about the space it will be displayed second, including the wall color it will be displayed against. To convey a sense of unity with a grouping of artwork, look for framing and matting that are the same or have similar qualities in color, texture, and/or size. To add interest in this type of arrangement, mix in other shapes – oval or round for example, or a wall mounted object that is represented within the artwork. To set an inviting relaxed feel, mix the framing and matting on some or all of the pieces.
As far as hanging wall décor, there are no rules. The
concept of one picture or object per wall space is a basic one at that. Don’t
be afraid to try something different! Regarding placement, eye level
(approximately 60-inches from the floor to the center of the item) is a basic
starting point – and that’s it. Evaluate the architecture, furniture placement,
molding details, etc., and always place wall décor after all other decorating selections
have been finalized and are in place.
Wall décor can be an inspiration for a decorating scheme,
so take the size and placement of the piece into account when planning the
space – especially if it’s large. And don’t ever hang an item on the wall ‘just
to fill a space’.
Here
are a few additional tips:
*Don’t simply relate the size of wall décor to the space it will occupy – there are times when a large piece placed on a small wall space looks amazing!
*Grouping many small items will have a larger presentation.
*Does the wall décor accentuate a focal point or can it make a statement on its own?
*Mirrors are tools of reflection – always remember that – so care needs to be taken with their placement.
*Groupings can be visually balanced whether they are symmetrical or asymmetrical.
*You should try to cover 2/3 of the wall space length above an item of furniture to achieve the best proportion of wall decor to furniture. This will also ensure that the scale of wall decor to wall space will be correct.
*Wall decor should sit 8"-12" above the furniture it is hanging over.
*Keep the items in a grouping about 2"-6" apart so they don't appear to be drifting away from each other.
Place
frame bumpers on the back corners of a frame and cover the hanging hardware with
painter’s tape prior to positioning wall décor – this will help to avoid
scratches on the wall. Once you determine the position, remove the tape, hang,
and enjoy!
If you need further assistance, take a look at the Decorating Styles sheet for additional help.