Simple Tips For Decorating Your Living Room With Metal Wall Art

Large blank walls can be every homeowner's challenge, raising questions about how to cover an immense amount of space without spending exorbitantly on large format artwork. A great solution, however, can be found in stylish large artwork and décor made entirely from various metals, one of the trendiest wall art ideas right now. Metal wall art includes everything from representational wall sculptures and simple panels to abstract pieces and functional clocks. With these pieces, you can add a lot of interest to any décor or design scheme by keeping a few tips in mind as you make your selections regarding size, material, lines, and placement considerations. 

Choosing large metal wall art is usually more cost-friendly than expensive custom-framed art and original large-scale paintings. They also tend to feel more like an architectural feature than a décor object, meaning they can, if you want, blend in and augment rather than compete with surrounding elements. Or they can pop with a little bit of surprising color or texture in otherwise neutral rooms. In general, chrome and shinier metals give a more modern vibe, while brushed, distressed, and patinated metals tend to feel more rustic and vintage.

Choosing the perfect piece of metal wall art can entail a mix of factors. Measure the space you're working with and consider the scale of surrounding pieces, both on the wall and on the floor, like furniture. Most experts suggest that art pieces should be hung about 8 to 10 inches above anything under them and should span two-thirds the length of any object like a bed or dresser. Many metal pieces are also three-dimensional and more sculptural, so depth and wall clearance will also be a factor.

Also, make sure to consider the weight of the piece before you hang it and use the appropriate secure hardware for the job. To avoid one of the most common mistakes people make when hanging art, make sure it's securely fastened to the wall. Most metal pieces can be quite heavy and will need to be fastened to the studs, especially if placed above where people will be sleeping, walking, or sitting.

Consider whether you want the piece to blend in or just be a focal point. Many metal pieces in most finishes can take a backseat, adding architectural interest to the wall without drawing full attention. Others, if they are large and colorful, will grab the eye more. For a more subdued look in a minimal room, choose a piece similar in color to other pieces. To make the art a focal point in the room, use higher contrast shades like black on a white wall or artwork in bright, saturated colors.

Large metal pieces of art are great in expansive spaces over sofas, entertainment consoles, and beds, particularly if you are looking for a way to fill a lot of space and make the wall a focal point. They can also be great for spots that just need a little texture or dimension and otherwise feel too empty. Try adding some smaller decorative tin panels or a mirror to these walls that echo the aesthetics of the surrounding room.

Depending on its style, metal artwork can accommodate a large number of aesthetics, including contemporary minimalistic rooms, industrial-style spaces, and farmhouse-inspired homes. Metal pieces are also great for outdoor spaces, like above seating arrangements for dining tables on patios or porches, where they can remain durable in any weather. While some metal pieces are already waterproof and weather-safe, you can make indoor pieces outdoor-durable with a sealant. This is also a great tactic for metal pieces that may be in high moisture spots like bathrooms or kitchens.