At the start of every month, millions of people move into a new rental suite and once the furniture is situated, want to fill their new space with their own unique style. By the same token, landlords too wish to create welcoming beautiful spaces enticing to new tenants. Whichever camp you fall into, use these tips to add some life to those empty walls using fine art nature photographic prints.
Colour Palette
Before even hanging a picture, it’s time to consider the colour palette of the walls. Moving into a new place is often a good time for a fresh coat of paint on the walls. Consider using neutral or warm, muted earth tones as your base. The blues and greens of nature will really stand out against this soothing background.
Sea Otter Raft in Waves and Fog. ©James Thompson Photography
Subjects
People love to see artistic renderings of the area where they live. Subjects can also reflect a person’s values or aspirations. Always wanted to see a Spirit Bear? Put a print on the wall to keep the motivation and hope alive!
Consider using a number of prints to carry a theme throughout the suite. For example, monochrome prints, waterfalls, sunsets or really any collection with a cohesive common thread will work.
Spirit Bear Springboard. ©James Thompson Photography
Use Key Pieces
Nothing makes a statement like a large print of a breathtaking landscape or powerful wildlife portrait placed in a prominent location such as an entry way or behind the living room couch. Large canvas or metal prints work great for this depending on your style preference and how much you wish to invest.
You can then use smaller pieces, perhaps in varying styles such as framed prints or small canvas tiles to complement the larger pieces throughout the suite.
Another option is to choose a wall to be a it’s own miniature gallery and fill it with a mix of framed pieces in various sizes for interest.
Rain Tail #1. ©James Thompson Photography
Lighting
Place your photographic artwork to take full advantage of any natural light. Fine art photographic prints whether on paper, canvas or metal use archival inks that resist fading even in direct sunlight so don’t be afraid to place your pieces where natural light can enhance the colours and textures of the print. No window? No problem. Unobtrusive but powerful accent lighting can ensure your prints look their best at any time of day.
Kingdom of the Great Bear. ©James Thompson Photography
Supporting Actors
Use other materials such as wood, stone, and plants in your decor to enhance your natural theme. Similarly you can choose cushions, throws and rugs to complement the palette you’ve chosen.
Waterfall Grotto and Ferns. ©James Thompson Photography
Keep it Fresh
Seasons change and tastes evolve and so it’s worth having a few extra pieces on hand to swap into your decor to keep things fresh and interesting year round.
Conclusion
By thoughtfully integrating fine art nature photography into your rental suite decor, you can create a tranquil and aesthetically pleasing environment that reflects your personal style while celebrating the beauty of the natural world. For more, see my blog post on biophilic design.
Come on over to my print store to find your next fine art nature photographic print and start decorating!