Wall Art That Works: Styling Every Room with Confidence

Selecting the right artwork can completely transform your space. It’s that final, refined touch that makes your house feel like a home, something personal, timeless, and uniquely yours. But with so many styles, shapes and sizes available, choosing wall art that reflects your aesthetic now, and still feels right later, can feel a little overwhelming.

In this guide, we’re breaking it down step by step, how to choose art for every room, style it with confidence, and hang it with care. Plus, we’ll share a few of our favourite insider tips for making sure your canvas prints look good and last for years to come.

1. Explore Different Art Genres

Art is deeply personal, what resonates with one person may feel completely different to someone else. So, the first (and most important) step is discovering what you love.

Spend some time exploring online art platforms, galleries, or social media. Get familiar with a variety of genres, natural forms, seascapes, landscapes, minimal linework, geometric shapes, abstract or contemporary pieces.

Also think about what kind of feeling you want your art to evoke. Do you want to create a peaceful, serene environment? Or something bold and uplifting? Maybe you’re drawn to more ambiguous pieces - art that sparks curiosity and invites interpretation. Whatever it is, lean into it. The right piece will speak to you.

 

 

2. Consider the Space

Wall art should enhance a room, not overwhelm it. A general rule of thumb? Aim for artwork that fills about two-thirds to three-quarters of the available wall space. This creates an eye-catching focal point without overpowering the room.

In larger rooms with high ceilings, bold, oversized pieces, like panoramas, can help emphasise the height and scale of the space. In smaller rooms, opt for one or two more intimate pieces that add depth and character without crowding the area.

Think about layout, too. A large canvas can make a striking statement above a headboard or in an open-plan kitchen-diner. Meanwhile, gallery walls or art pairs are ideal for hallways, bathrooms or snug living areas - spaces that might be smaller but still offer the perfect blank canvas for creativity.

 

 

3. Let Colour Set the Mood

Use the existing colour palette of your room as a base when selecting artwork. Even the boldest pieces should feel cohesive within the space.

If you’re after a calming, laid-back mood, look to soft, natural tones like alpine oat, soft beige or sky blue. Prefer something with energy and edge? Choose vibrant hues, bold linework or graphic shapes that add impact and rhythm.

Pro tip: art is a great way to subtly introduce accent colours into your decor, creating flow and harmony across the room.

 

 

4. Match Your Decor Style

The most timeless interiors are often the most personal. That said, it helps to consider your existing decor style when choosing artwork.

Minimalist spaces work beautifully with clean lines, subtle tones and abstract simplicity. Mediterranean-inspired rooms often suit earthy tones and textured pieces. If you’re leaning into cottagecore, look to vintage florals or nature-inspired prints. For contemporary or industrial styles, try bold abstracts, layered textures, or black-and-white photography.

But don’t be afraid to mix styles. Blending aesthetics is what gives your home soul. If you love it, it belongs.

 

 

5. Invest in Art You Connect With

The most meaningful art usually tells a story. Whether it's the brushstrokes of a coastal landscape or the textured lines of an abstract canvas, artists often infuse their work with personal memories, culture or emotion. Choosing pieces that resonate with you adds real depth and thoughtfulness to your home.

Supporting emerging artists is also a great way to bring something truly unique into your space, before the rest of the world catches on. At Mala, we love the work of The Rocks Brothers, Lynn Ratcliffe and Preston Paperboy, each offers something distinctive, with work rooted in different perspectives, styles and experiences.

 

Shop The Rocks Brothers

Shop Lynn Ratcliffe

Shop Preston Paperboy

 

6. Don’t Overlook the Finishing Touches

Once you’ve found the perfect piece, it’s time to think about how you’ll present it.

The frame you choose can transform the overall look and feel of your artwork. It’s not just about aesthetics - it also plays a big part in durability and cohesion within your space. We always recommend using FSC-certified, sustainably sourced wood frames, because quality and sustainability go hand in hand.

Here's a quick guide to choosing your frame finish:

Black – Sophisticated, sleek, impactful

Brown – Warm, timeless, subtly chic

Pine – Light, fresh and modern

White – Clean, minimalist, versatile

 

 

7. How to Hang Your Wall Art Like a Pro

Now that you’ve found your ideal piece, here’s how to hang it with care for a polished, long-lasting finish:

Choose the Right Spot
The centre of your frame should sit roughly 57–60 inches from the floor, this is standard gallery height and creates a balanced visual flow.

Mark the Top
Use a pencil or painter’s tape to lightly mark where the top of the frame will sit.

Install the Screw and Plug
Select wall fixings that suit your wall type. Insert the screw at a 45-degree angle for extra strength.

Hang and Level
Use the sawtooth hanger on the back of the canvas to secure it over the screw. Adjust as needed, and use a spirit level or level app to make sure it’s perfectly straight.

 

 

Feeling Inspired?

Start your wall art journey with intention. Browse our latest canvas collections and discover art that speaks to your space. Want more styling tips? Don’t miss our guide to creating an inviting entryway or explore Summer 2025's home décor trends for a fresh seasonal refresh.