One of the most common questions we get from our clients at ILevel is whether the wall art and color scheme of their home should match. Our answer, of course, depends on the specific home and client we’re working with. Can your wall art match your color scheme? Of course it can. But does it have to? In general, our advice is no, your wall art doesn’t need to be the same colors as your sofa, area rug, and drapery to still be a beautiful and fitting addition to your space.
A better way to choose wall art is to look for pieces that will complement the overall design of the home, but not necessarily “match” exactly — because sometimes, even though your entire home might be black, white, and gray, a pop of colorful wall art can truly make the space. Or, in a traditional home, a bold, geometric painting in an au-courant color palette may bring a whole new depth and sense of currency to your space.
Here are a few great examples that prove your art collection doesn’t need to change every time your paint color or decor does.
In a perfectly-coordinated room, a seemingly out-of-nowhere art piece can add a perfect amount of tension and interest.
This room, below, primarily features neutral and wood tones. The colorful wall art takes what would be a nice, but maybe slightly boring space, and elevates it into “wow” territory. The juxtaposition works because the abstract painting complements the modern style of the room.
Similarly, the yellow work adds a literal bright spot in a gray and white space.
Finally, the photo below shows that wall art doesn’t even have to match the surrounding pieces in order to feel complementary and intentional.
The bottom line: Collect away, and then arrange (and rearrange) your pieces in your space until you have a display that feels balanced and thoughtful, regardless of the color.
For more help arranging your wall art, get in touch with ILevel at info@ilevel.biz, or visit our New York City studio at 37 E. 7th Street.