How to Choose Art That Fits Your Space (Size, Colour & Mood Guide)
“Irish Cubist” by Jan O’Sullivan
Choosing artwork is exciting — but it can also feel overwhelming. You fall in love with a piece online, only to realise later it’s too small for your wall, clashes with your colour scheme, or doesn’t quite create the atmosphere you hoped for.
At Irish Artmart, we believe buying original art should feel confident, considered, and deeply personal. Whether you’re styling a modern Dublin apartment, a country cottage in Kerry, or a bright family home in Cork, this guide will help you choose art that truly fits your space — in size, colour, and mood.
1. Start with Size: Getting the Proportions Right
One of the most common mistakes buyers make? Choosing artwork that’s too small.
📏 The 60–75% Rule
As a general guideline, your artwork (or grouping of artworks) should measure around 60–75% of the width of the furniture beneath it.
For example:
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Sofa width: 200cm
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Ideal artwork width: 120–150cm
This keeps the piece feeling balanced rather than “floating” awkwardly on the wall.
🛋 Art Above a Sofa or Sideboard
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Leave 15–25cm (6–10 inches) between the top of the furniture and the bottom of the frame.
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Avoid artwork that is wider than the furniture.
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Large statement pieces work beautifully in open-plan living spaces.
If you’re working with smaller pieces, consider creating a gallery wall instead of hanging one small frame alone.
🖼 Choosing Art for Large Blank Walls
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Go bigger than you think.
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Consider vertical pieces for tall ceilings.
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Use panoramic landscapes for wide dining areas.
Irish artists often create stunning large-scale landscapes inspired by places like Dublin, Connemara, or The Wild Atlantic Way — perfect for adding presence and personality.
2. Choosing Colours That Complement (Not Compete)
Colour is emotional. It influences how a room feels the moment you walk in.
Before choosing art, ask yourself:
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What are the dominant colours in the room?
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Is the space neutral or bold?
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Do I want harmony or contrast?
🎨 Option 1: Harmonious Colour Palette
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Beige, cream, and warm woods
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Soft greys
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Coastal blues
Choose artwork that echoes those tones for a calm, cohesive look.
This works beautifully in bedrooms, minimalist interiors, and restful reading corners.
🎨 Option 2: Bold Contrast for Impact
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Rich reds
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Vibrant blues
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Mustard yellows
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Emerald greens
A striking original painting can transform a simple room into a design statement.
3. Match the Mood of the Room
Art doesn’t just decorate a space — it shapes how it feels.
Different rooms call for different emotional tones.
🌿 Calm & Restful (Bedrooms & Quiet Spaces)
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Soft brushwork
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Gentle landscapes
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Muted colour palettes
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Flowing abstract forms
Artwork inspired by the Irish coastline, rolling countryside, or subtle abstract compositions can help create a tranquil retreat.
☀️ Energising & Uplifting (Living Areas & Kitchens)
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Expressive brushstrokes
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High-contrast colours
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Dynamic compositions
These pieces bring conversation, warmth, and personality into shared spaces.
🖤 Reflective & Dramatic (Offices & Feature Walls)
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Moody abstracts
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Monochrome pieces
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Textural mixed media
These works can add depth, focus, and sophistication.
4. Consider Lighting
Natural light changes everything.
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North-facing rooms = cooler light
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South-facing rooms = warmer tones
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Artificial lighting can intensify or dull colours
Before committing, imagine how the artwork will look at different times of day. If possible, view it in person or request additional photos.
5. Think Beyond the Living Room
Art belongs everywhere — not just above the sofa.
Consider:
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Hallways
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Stairwells
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Kitchens
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Bathrooms (with proper ventilation)
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Home offices
A small original artwork in an unexpected space often has the biggest impact.
6. Trust Your Instinct
Design rules are helpful — but emotional connection matters more.
Ask yourself:
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Does this piece make me pause?
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Would I still love it in five years?
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Does it reflect something about me?
Buying original art from Irish artists means bringing a real story, real creativity, and real passion into your home.
Why Choose Original Art from Irish Artists?
When you purchase through Irish Artmart, you’re not just buying décor — you’re supporting living, working artists across Ireland.
Original art offers:
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Texture and depth prints can’t replicate
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A one-of-a-kind piece
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A story behind every brushstroke
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Direct support for Irish creatives
From contemporary abstracts to coastal landscapes and expressive figurative work, there’s something to suit every space and every mood.
Final Thoughts: Design with Feeling, Not Just Formula
Choosing art that fits your space comes down to three key elements:
✔ Size that balances your wall
✔ Colour that complements or contrasts intentionally
✔ Mood that enhances how you want the room to feel
When those three align, a room transforms.
Ready to find the perfect piece for your home?
Explore original Irish art and discover artwork that truly fits your space — beautifully, confidently, and meaningfully.
Looking for guidance?
Save this guide for later, share it with someone redecorating, and browse curated collections on Irish Artmart to start your art journey today.
Explore Irish Artmart
Support Irish artists, discover original work, and build a creative practice that lasts:
👉 https://irishartmart.ie
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Irish Artmart.
Irish Artmart – Your Gateway to Artistic Excellence.
The artwork featured in the image is “ Irish Cubist” by Jan O’Sullivan, available to view at: Jan O’Sullivan’s Store
