Hi my sweet friend,

One of the most frequent questions I get from clients when they’re choosing artwork is whether to go for horizontal or vertical art. It may seem like a small detail, but the orientation of your art can have a big impact on how it transforms your space, making it feel balanced, harmonious, and visually stunning.

So how do you choose between horizontal and vertical? Let’s dive into the benefits of each!

1. Horizontal Art: Wide Spaces & Calm Energy

Horizontal art is ideal for wide walls and large pieces of furniture like sofas, beds, and dining tables. This type of orientation gives a room a sense of calm, stability, and grounding. If you want to create a peaceful, soothing atmosphere in your living room or bedroom, horizontal artwork is a perfect choice. The expansive width allows your eyes to flow naturally across the piece, creating a sense of tranquility and restfulness. One of my favourite horizontal piece is CREST.

Horizontal art is also great for larger areas where you want to provide a sense of balance, especially in rooms where the furniture takes up a lot of horizontal space. Pairing a soothing abstract art piece in a wide format with neutral tones can help maintain a sense of visual balance.

2. Vertical Art: Height & Drama

Vertical art, on the other hand, is perfect for narrow spaces or areas with high ceilings. Think about placing vertical pieces in hallways, entryways, or staircases where you want to draw the eye upwards and make the room feel taller and more dynamic. The vertical orientation adds a sense of drama and energy, creating a powerful focal point for the space. One of my most popular vertical piece is CROSSCURRENT, and it definitely brings the energy.

This is particularly useful for small home offices or apartment decor where floor space is limited. A vertical piece in bold colours can give a sense of expansion, while still fitting into narrower spaces. Additionally, in rooms like dining areas or above mantels, a tall vertical artwork can provide a striking visual balance when paired with lower, wider furniture.

3. Room Function: Tailoring Your Choice to Your Space

The function of the room should guide your decision on whether to choose horizontal or vertical art. If you’re designing a home office or living room, horizontal pieces create a sense of calm, making them perfect for areas meant for relaxation or focus. Think about how a horizontal piece above your desk can help you focus on your work while still offering a sense of calm.

In contrast, vertical art is best suited for areas where people move, like hallways, or rooms where you want to make a dramatic statement, such as entryways or stairwells. In these spaces, vertical art creates the illusion of height and grandeur, while energizing the space with its bold form.

4. Mixing Horizontal and Vertical for a Dynamic Space

For those who want the best of both worlds, combining horizontal and vertical artwork in the same room can create a more dynamic and layered space. This adds visual interest and balance, allowing you to play with different perspectives. A mix of orientations can help tie a room together, giving each piece its own spotlight while complementing the overall aesthetic.

I love this piece - it's called Hope, and it's from my New Day Collection. It has the most gorgeous mellow green colour, with gold trails that lead into soft yellow; it's all about the light that always exists even if you can't quite see it yet

At the end of the day, the decision between horizontal and vertical art should reflect your home’s layout, the atmosphere you want to create, and your personal style. Whether you’re transforming a modern apartment or a cozy home, choosing the right orientation can truly elevate your home decor.

If you’re still unsure about what will work best, feel free to reach out for a chat—I’d love to help guide you toward your perfect art match!

Love,
Affie