How to Display Original Paintings to Elevate Your Home’s Design

Original paintings can transform a room, adding a unique and sophisticated touch to your home’s décor. Here’s how to display your artwork thoughtfully, ensuring it complements your space while making the paintings look truly special.

Choosing the Perfect Spot

Select a location where the painting can stand out as a focal point—above a sofa, fireplace, or bed works well. Be mindful of direct sunlight, which can damage artwork, and use UV-protective glass if needed. Hanging paintings at eye level—about 57-60 inches from the floor—creates an optimal viewing experience. For seated areas, lower the artwork to suit the viewpoint.

Framing to Complement the Artwork

The right frame enhances both the painting and the room. Choose a frame that complements the colors of your space, and think about materials: wood frames add warmth, while metal creates a more modern look. A simple, sleek frame often works well with abstract or contemporary pieces.

Gallery Walls for Impact

If you have multiple pieces, consider creating a gallery wall. Before hanging, arrange your artwork on the floor to experiment with different layouts. Aim for a balanced composition by mixing large and small pieces, and keep about 2-3 inches of space between each for a clean, airy feel. A gallery wall can be a powerful statement in any room.

Coordinating with the Color Palette

Artwork should either harmonize with or stand out from the room’s colors. A bright painting on neutral walls creates contrast, while softer tones can balance bolder room colors. Echo colors found in your furniture or textiles to maintain cohesiveness between the art and the room’s décor.

Lighting for Effect

Good lighting can make a painting come to life. Accent lighting, such as picture lights or track lighting, directs attention to the artwork and highlights its texture and depth. For a more intimate setting, use soft lighting like wall sconces or floor lamps positioned near the artwork.

Size and Scale Considerations

Ensure the scale of the artwork matches the size of the wall and room. Large paintings suit bigger spaces, while smaller pieces work well in intimate areas like hallways or reading nooks. Grouping smaller paintings together can also create an impactful visual.

Creating a Theme

To tie your collection together, establish a theme—whether it’s through a series of pieces from the same artist or a specific style like abstract or nature-inspired art. Grouping paintings with a shared element brings cohesion to your space and enhances the overall aesthetic.

Conclusion

Displaying original paintings is an opportunity to elevate your home’s design. By selecting the right spots, framing intentionally, coordinating with colors, and using proper lighting, your artwork will shine, adding beauty and personality to your space.