Decorating that new home is one of the most enjoyable parts of moving in. But putting the stamp of personalization on the walls takes more effort than a thumbtack and a poster.
When it comes to art, there are a few key things to consider.
Hang at eye level
That's right -- even in the kids' rooms. A long, mural style painting will look great in junior's hideaway, and if it features his favourite animals or cars, it'll be the perfect height for him to admire.
In the living room, however, the homeowner chooses the art. That means it should be hung at the homeowner's eye level.
This ensures the piece will be enjoyable to all who live there, and the risk of hanging it too high or too low disappears.
Hang in a line
The days of hanging one painting higher than the other are long gone.
The problem with the crooked style is it draws a person's eye up -- to the ceiling. Instead, hang four black and white photos framed in thick, dark wood in a row -- and voila! Instant glamour.
Buy big
Imagine a big, blank wall, covered in that perfect paint colour. All it needs is the right piece of art.
Keep in mind, however, art should complement its surroundings, and vice versa.
A large wall deserves a large piece of art, otherwise the negative space will swallow what is being displayed. If there is only four inches of wall surrounding an extra-large painting, it will look commanding and stylish.
Consider colour
A painting will pop against a wall painted in complementary colours.
Avoid hanging a busy painting on busy wallpaper -- it creates a dizzying effect.
And the perfect way to complete the art experience is to top it with art lights.
