The Statement Piece: How Large Prints Can Transform a Room
I’ve been thinking a lot about space lately. How we make it, fill it, and transform it. Moving into my new home and painting studio has been a lesson in possibility— unpacking, painting and rearranging in light-soaked corners, and finding delight in the ritual of settling in.
One of the most impactful ways I’ve created my space over the years is by anchoring a room with large-scale art. There’s something undeniable about the way a statement piece—big, bold, and beautifully placed—can create an entire atmosphere for a space. It’s more than decor. It’s an invitation, a conversation, a grounding pause in a room.
A well-chosen print does more than fill an empty gap on your wall.
In my own homes, I’ve saved a few special originals paintings and watercolors and large giclee prints over the years, letting them take center stage. These pieces don’t just decorate a space– they define it.
Picture a sweeping, atmospheric sky hanging above a sofa, drawing the eye upward and expanding the feeling of openness. Or a moody, textured landscape centered over a dining table, creating an intimate, grounding presence for meals shared with loved ones. As an artist and fellow collector who loves curating good aesthetics and energy in my space, I know how a single, large print has the power to transform a space—making it feel intentional, inspired, and deeply personal.
Quality really matters. Choose a print that is going to last.
Because not all prints are created the same way. And when collecting in something large-scale, it’s an investment. Know that the type of paper, the ink quality, the printing process…. it all really makes all the difference. Look for:
Giclée prints on canvas or archival paper to ensure longevity and true-to-original color depth.
Varnished finishes that protect from dust and fading, giving your piece a beautifully soft, museum-quality texture.
Prints with added margins so you can frame them with the presence + gorgeousness of an original painting on stretcher bars and canvas wrapped.
Large artwork not only shapes the visual flow of a room but also influences how it feels. Consider the mood you want to cultivate:
Soft Neutrals & Airy Landscapes: Ideal for creating a calming, expansive atmosphere. Think sweeping skies, rolling hills, and subtle textures that invite stillness and peace.
Bold, Vibrant Colors: Perfect for spaces that thrive on energy and creativity. A dynamic, colorful piece can breathe life into a room, making it feel lively and inspiring.
Deep, Moody Tones: Darker landscapes or richly textured abstracts create a sense of coziness and depth, especially when paired with warm, ambient lighting.
Choosing the right size is key to making a statement piece work. Here are some ideas I like to keep in mind:
Above a Couch or Bed: The artwork should be about two-thirds the width of the furniture below it. For a standard couch, an 18x24 might feel a bit too small, but a 30x40 or larger creates more balance and impact.
Across from a Dining Table: A horizontal composition often works best here. Center the piece at eye level, ensuring it anchors the room without overwhelming it.
On a stand-alone wall: Let the piece breathe. Give it a few feet of space around it so it doesn’t feel cramped, and consider a gallery-style light fixure to enhance its whole vibe and presence.
Okay, how you surround your large print is just as important as the artwork itself. It’s your space. Bring in more of what you love and who you are will create a atmosphere where artwork you love will truly shine.
A well-chosen frame can elevate the piece—a floated-frame creates the look and depth of an original, and a piece framed simply in a maple frame with clean matte creates a modern, effortless look. I created a framing guide with some more helpful tips and tricks if this is the step you’re a bit stumped on! You can download the guide HERE– it’s free!
Natural light brings out the true depth of color, while moody lighting creates drama and intimacy. I will always go for some mid-century or some nature-inspired, soft lamps and keep them low for grounding energy.
Layering textures – soft linen curtains, simple maple wood frames, variety of potted plants, plush rugs and scrolls of incense all enhance the depth and warmth of a space.
(Showing you my favorite way to frame with a close up of one of my past originals paintings. The extra margin and varnish means you can canvas-wrap and place in a floater frame in this way.)
I am passionate about the power of art to transform a space—not just visually, but emotionally and energetically. Big, beautiful prints are more than just a decor choice- they can be a daily reminder of beauty and inspiration.
Whether you choose a serene landscape or a bold abstract, it’s something you live with, breathe in, and experience every day. Let it be something that speaks to you, holds space for you, and invites you into something deeper.
That is the magic of the statement piece.
xo, emily
download the framing guide
