A guide to buying art for your living room

How to choose art for your living room

Choosing art for your living room isn't just about finding something that looks nice - it's about finding a piece that makes your space feel like you. Whether you're starting with blank walls or looking to refresh your space, here are a few tips to help you choose artwork that brings your living room to life.

1. Start with a feeling

Ask yourself: What mood do I want in this space? Do you want your living room to feel calm and relaxing or bold and energetic? Soft-toned abstracts might create a sense of calm, while colourful, expressive pieces can bring vibrancy and conversation.

2. Consider what size you’re after

A common mistake is choosing art that’s too small. As a rule of thumb, your artwork should fill at least two-thirds of the wall space above your sofa. Big wall? Try a large statement piece or a gallery wall of smaller works.

3. Match the vibe, not just the colours

Your art doesn’t have to match your cushions, it's better if it matches your style! If your decor is modern, look for minimal or graphic works. If your space is more traditional or rustic, textured paintings or classic landscapes may feel more at home.

4. Go with what you love

I can’t stress this enough! Trends come and go, but you’ll be looking at this piece every day. Choose something that you connect with - something that makes you pause, feel, or smile. If it tells a story or reminds you of something meaningful, even better. I love when buyers tell me about their connection to my work - it’s so personal and meaningful.

”The portrait you painted attracts me in an almost inexplicable way... Usually, it's abstract works that keep me in galleries: the free forms, the echoes of the invisible. But your painting touches me differently, more deeply. With a line, a gesture, a minimum of means, you manage to create a rare intimacy. As if a secret bond were being woven, discreet but vibrant, between my soul and this silent figure.”

5. Don’t be afraid to break the rules

Art is personal. If you fall in love with something that doesn't ‘match’ or isn't the ‘right size"‘ - trust your gut and go with your instincts (you can always hang it somewhere else!). Your home should reflect your personality, not an art rule book.