Creating a stylish space is not so much about spending a fortune on an interior designer, but rather about creating ambiance with a few simple artistic touches. For example, a single painting can have a huge impact on a room by creating a particular mood. 

---

Likewise, a unique piece of furniture can brighten up the room and make your space look more modern. If you’re looking to update your interiors, here are a few tips on how to use art to change the look of your space.

Use One Large Painting As A Centrepiece

I’m a huge fan of large paintings because they draw the eye in and can really take the viewer on a visual journey, and when matched with the right interior, they can really pull the whole space together. In my Black & White house in Singapore, I had my Botanic Gardens painting hanging on a large empty wall in my bedroom, and it really made the room feel very warm and inviting.

Another idea is to choose a beautiful frame for your painting that will make the artwork’s colours pop. Try placing your artwork behind the sofa or with end-tables or chairs on either side of the painting to further frame it and add a nice flow to the room.

Use Multiple Artworks To Create A Gallery Wall

Another great way to add some style to your space is to display multiple paintings, photographs or prints in a gallery style. Grab some inexpensive frames, all in the same colour to keep a continuous theme going, or get creative with frames of all different colours and sizes. You can play it safe with a simple grid pattern, or hang the pieces at varying angles.



Use Shelves To Display Art

Shelves are great for de-cluttering, as you can take all those items taking up space on your coffee table and counters and get them out of the way. You can also create an appealing visual display that is instantly noticeable. Framed photographs and artworks look great on shelves, as do candles, houseplants, and books.

Create An Accent Wall

Fancy a new colour, but not sure you can handle that hue taking over the entire room? An accent wall is the perfect way to add vibrancy to a room without overwhelming the space. This is also a good way to highlight a particular artwork or unique architectural feature. Bright, bold colours work well on accent walls, as do simple patterns, such as stripes or chevrons.



A few more tips…

Use Mirrors To Open Up The Space

Mirrors are both functional and fashionable, and they create the illusion of having more space, which is always a good thing when you live in a small urban space. Spiff up an old mirror with a contemporary frame, or get out the paint and add a few designs on the glass to add a modern touch.


Breathe New Life Into Old Furniture

Sometimes all you need to completely revitalize a space is a splash of colour here and there. If you have old furniture, you can update it with a fresh coat of paint, either in one solid colour or fun and funky patterns. Changing the fabric on throw cushions can make an old sofa look new again, and a colourful throw is a cheaper alternative to completely reupholstering.