Art can breathe life into a room, transforming an otherwise dull space into a vibrant and engaging one. The proper integration of artwork into your home design can add personality and depth to your space. High ceilings are a common feature in many UK homes, especially in period properties, and they offer a unique and exciting opportunity for displaying art. However, the size and scale of these rooms can often pose a challenge. But fear not, with the right approach, you can use these architectural features to your advantage and create a stunning visual display.
1. Selecting Art for High Ceilings
When faced with high ceilings, it’s important to consider the scale of your artwork. Small prints may get lost on a large wall, while oversized pieces could feel too dominant.
Choosing artwork that is proportionally balanced with your space will maintain visual harmony in the room. For instance, a large piece of art or an art installation that occupies a significant chunk of wall space can draw the eye upwards and make a dramatic statement. Alternatively, a collection of smaller pieces arranged in a gallery-style display can fill a large wall effectively without overwhelming the space.
Ensure that your chosen artwork complements the colour scheme and style of your room. If your decor is minimalist, you might opt for monochromatic prints. If your room has a rustic design, consider artwork with organic textures and warm colours.
2. Placement and Hanging Techniques
Placement is key in displaying art in a room with high ceilings. The general rule of thumb for hanging art is to centre it at eye level. However, with high ceilings, you have a bit more flexibility.
You can still maintain the eye-level rule for pieces above furniture like a sofa or a credenza, but if you have a very large wall to fill, you can hang the piece or pieces slightly higher. This will draw the eye upwards and emphasise the grandeur of your space.
For hanging the artwork, you may need to invest in a sturdy ladder or hire a professional, especially for very high walls. Use a level to ensure your artwork is straight. You wouldn’t want your carefully chosen piece to hang off-kilter!
3. Creating a Gallery Wall
A gallery wall is an excellent choice for a room with high ceilings. It can fill a large space without requiring a single oversized piece of art, which can be expensive and difficult to find.
The first step in creating a gallery wall is planning your layout. You can either go for a symmetrical grid-like arrangement, or an eclectic mix of different sizes and styles. Either way, it’s a good idea to lay your pieces out on the floor first to finalise your arrangement.
When you’re ready to hang, start from the centre and work your way out. This ensures that your gallery will be centred on the wall.
4. Combining Art with Furniture
Art isn’t the only thing that can fill a tall wall – furniture can also play a part. Bookshelves, armoires, or even tall plants can be combined with artwork to create a visually interesting and balanced space.
When placing furniture, remember to consider the balance of the room. If you have a large piece of furniture on one wall, you might want to balance it with a large piece of art on the opposite wall.
5. Bringing Art into the Kitchen
The kitchen is often overlooked when it comes to displaying art, but it can be a wonderful space for a splash of creativity. With high ceilings, you have plenty of wall space to play with.
Choose art that complements the colour and style of your kitchen. Food-related prints can be a fun and thematic choice. If your kitchen has a modern design, consider sleek, minimalist pieces. For a country-style kitchen, rustic or vintage-inspired pieces could work well.
In conclusion, with the right approach, high ceilings can provide a wonderful opportunity to showcase artwork in a unique and impactful way. By considering scale and placement, and by using innovative techniques such as gallery walls and furniture integration, you can create a visually stunning and personalised space. Just remember to choose art that you love – after all, you’ll be the one living with it!
6. Utilising Light Filled Spaces
The right lighting can dramatically enhance the beauty of your wall art. In rooms with high ceilings, you’re likely to have large, light filled windows. This natural light can do wonders for your art pieces, making them appear more vibrant and lively.
Consider the path of the sunlight across the room throughout the day. Is there a time when the sunlight directly hits your artwork, potentially causing glare? Or perhaps there are parts of the room that remain in shadow. Artwork in these areas may not be as prominently displayed as it could be.
In such cases, you may need to consider additional lighting options. Track lighting is a popular choice that offers flexibility as you can adjust each light to illuminate your artwork perfectly. Alternatively, picture lights are a more traditional option that attach directly above or below a piece of artwork, casting a direct, focused light.
Lighting can also be used to create a focal point in your room. This can be particularly effective in a living room or dining room setting. Strategically place a spotlight or an uplighter to highlight a large art piece or a gallery wall. This not only draws attention to your art but also adds depth and dimension to the room.
Lastly, remember to choose lights that emit a consistent and accurate colour, known as a high Colour Rendering Index (CRI). This will ensure your artwork is viewed in its truest form, highlighting all its intricacies and details.
7. Collaborating with an Interior Designer
When struggling with the overwhelming wall spaces that high ceilings bring, it could be beneficial to enlist the help of a professional. Interior designers, like Charlotte McCaughan of McCaughan Hawes, have a trained eye for balance, proportion, and design. They can help you choose and install art that complements and enhances your home’s aesthetic.
An interior designer can help you identify the right size art for your space, the best placements, and the styles that would match your existing home decor. They can also assist in creating a cohesive gallery wall that tells a story or brings out a particular mood.
If you’re worried about the cost, remember that many designers offer a range of services at various price points. Some even offer online consultations, which could be a more affordable option. While this means you may have to do some of the physical work, like hanging artwork, you will have professional guidance, ensuring your high wall spaces are utilised in the most stylish and effective way.
Conclusion
High ceilings offer a refreshing canvas for art lovers to express their unique taste and style. From selecting the right wall art to creating a gallery wall and utilising light filled spaces, there are endless ways to make your tall walls come alive.
Remember, art is subjective, and so is your home decor. Don’t feel pressured to follow trends or traditional rules. Instead, focus on creating an environment that reflects your personality, whether that’s through large, bold pieces or a collection of smaller, carefully curated art.
With the help of professionals like Charlotte McCaughan of McCaughan Hawes, or by simply trusting your instinct, you can turn your home with high ceilings into an art home. After all, your home is your canvas, and you’re the artist. So go ahead, paint your masterpiece!
Remember, if you’re purchasing items online, look for options with free shipping to save some costs. However, never compromise on what you love — a well-chosen art piece is worth every penny!
