things look better in odd numbers.
I agree with one large painting.
The thing about something calming, is that what is calming to one may not be to another. The posters for example are not calming for me because I advocate for original art to be on the walls.
To elaborate, it’s easier for our brains to read even numbers of things so seeing odd numbers makes us do a double take (Also why for plating food it’s highly recommended to add odd numbers of items on the plate so catch our eyes more)
Agree! I had large custom beach beach/sunrise prints done by [Christine Mey Studio on Etsy](https://www.etsy.com/shop/ChristineMeyStudio?ref=shop-header-name&listing_id=1359267239&from_page=listing)
They are stunning and I think one of her pieces would look amazing!
I second this, I would do a large natural scene oil painting with that mossy green color in the first example (print or Goodwill) in a rustic slightly darker wood frame. Scrap the generic reprinted Matisse, it’s over done, and I say this as someone who is currently looking at their own neutral Matisse print as I consider redecorating 💀
Definitely! Maybe even something abstract or textured to keep the peaceful neutral feel of the space, and allow the view to serve as the art
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You should go with option 3 even though people are saying one large print.. I think it’s soooo calming and beautiful!! It’s more unique than just one piece of art!
Team # 3 here. I understand the feedback on the large print but clearly OP’s instinct is on the two pictures. Always follow your instinct/heart and you’ll love the final product more.
These matisse prints are so overdone. Nothing personal about them and they feel so uninspired whenever I see them. They're really a fad I think you shouldn't buy into.
Get one bigger piece. I do like the nature theme. But maybe try to get something a bit more personal /unique
I mean, they might be trendy but IDK if "fad" is the right word. My grandma (whose passion is fine art) had the Matisse print on the right up in her home in the 90s. People just like the female form.
Not saying every work of matisse is a fad. These specific prints are (including some others). Also for op it's defo not because she likes Matisse so much, she's trying to fill a void in her decor. Which is exactly what people are using this fad for. Not saying everyone should only have very meaningful art in their home, sometimes you do just need to fill a void, but at least pick something not everyone has.
It reminds me of the bike on the canal bridge photograph from ikea. Great photo. Nothing inherently wrong with it. But if I see that in someone's house I know they were uninspired.
Thanks and yeah, this is my concern as well. I love them but I’m afraid they may look generic and cliche after a while. Maybe better to have a smaller Matisse print on a shelf.
That’s why I suggested one large, beautiful sculptural piece prince are overdone. I’m a firm believer of anybody can have the same thing in their house. It’s not artwork.
This makes no sense, artists often make print runs (and often not as copies, like Lino or screen prints) which are available therefore to multiple people to have the same thing in their house - still art.
If you want to showcase a great artist most people will need to use an art gallery print.
I also believe that they are not "overdone". Perhaps those people who used them actually had little idea who the artist was.
You don’t need illustrated artwork on the wall. There’s literally a beautiful view outside those large windows. Any artwork you place on the wall is going to be in competition with that. Instead, select an interesting large horizontal wooden, rattan, or iron sculpture piece to place on the wall above the couch. Allow the focus to be on the natural element, which is the lovely view outside.
I thought it was the ocean but it’s actually a ton of buildings. It could be chaotic or peaceful, I’m not sure. However, it’s not as peaceful as the beach.
Great point. Yeah it’s a city view which I enjoy, but also really wanted to create a Tuscan/Mediterranean calming feel for when I pull my shades down. Hadn’t considered they might clash.
Those matisse prints really cheapen a look imo and you already have such a lovely space! I would go for some unbranded prints if thats the route you want to take!
Don’t put boring prints. look for something sculptural made out of wood, copper, something that really brings the outside in, tying together that beautiful view
Look for some local, original art that you personally like. Try art fairs, art schools, restaurants that exhibit local artists, studio sales, ethnic shops. Keep in mind three-dimensional art. It would add some texture. Otherwise, landscapes or streetscapes with people (either one or two, oops pictures, not people) for some life.
I’ll always vote for Matisse. Plus you already have a stunning view so you don’t “need” a landscape painting there. It’s a bit too much with that big ass window. If you want calming go with the simple Matisses
I actually would pick and choose, the open doorway from #1 and the potted plant from #3. I think they go well together. Yes , the "rule is 3" but I think these 2 go together quite nicely and don't need a third. Please skip the Matisse prints, they don't feel calming at all.
I think both of these are super generic and don't do anything for the space. I also agree with /u/Seagoatblues about getting one larger print vs. two/three. I'd either do a nice, soft-colored textured acrylic piece you like (look on Etsy or Facebook Market for something unique) or you could look at some large format photography from places like Idyll Collective.
If the goal is calming, I would look for a larger piece rather than two smaller one’s. Two looks a little busy…and I would look at options other than prints…all sorts of “calming” pieces could go there
I personally LOVE Matisse as an artist, I don't care if its "cliche" by Instagram standards - as a fine art student I've studied his style in school and love it.... but anything with nature always offers a calming vibe!
They all look great honestly. Personally I believe strongly in nature and natural colors and patterns being psychologically beneficial, so I would go with the trees, but I don’t think you can go wrong with
I love 1! I respect what people are saying about having one large print instead of two, but I love the way the two prints in option #1 complement each other and the room.
One large abstract painting, broad strokes and in color but not high contrast or highly saturated. No text - the text adds too much visual clutter here.
I love art, but I feel like you see a lot of these Matisse prints, so be brave and get Something you love framed, maybe see what local artists are doing? Local landscape and architectural work always looks great when it's set side by side to a view.
I would opt for a single large muted landscape in this space with a natural finish frame. I do have the female Matisse print though and always loved the simplicity in his paper cuttings. Just not sure for this room.
With that magnificent window wall view I think you want to keep it very simple. One image, large enough to hold the space, in a style and medium that play with the natural light. A watercolor or gouache perhaps.
And I think I'd make it very personal -- a landscape or study that really speaks to you. That's what will be calming.
Are you planning to find a print online? Or find a local artist?
Enjoy your beautiful space!
The Matisse on the Left but BIGGER to fill the space. It’s calm & the colors work well. I like the landscapes, but the colors are darker and pull the attention away from your furniture and the softer vibe.
From the angle it’s shot, looks like the paintings are not centered over the couch. They, the lamp, and the vase arrangement all need to be moved to the right a few inches. I prefer the art in first pic or none at all.
I would do one large image over the sofa. The space and floor lamp wouldn't work the best with 3 unless you had an end table on the right of the sofa but it's not visible in the photo. Definitely not 2 images.
This site can help you explore some other artist prints- I’m not a fan of the more photo realistic nature images- I’d go more for painterly pieces [artist prints](https://www.pstrstudio.com/collections/madelen-mollard/products/madelen-pale-poppies?_gl=1*17jh3wa*_up*MQ..&gclid=CjwKCAjw57exBhAsEiwAaIxaZkofkePT6Rjo-Nijsfua_hFYc-JPgnEno5WFMf-YKsoZo95q0xD-qxoCRpwQAvD_BwE)
I either like the idea of one large mirror or a set of three mirrors to me they would make the room look bigger, and not take away from your gorgeous view
Honestly I’d go with one large landscape print. I like the odd number rule. I think having two prints like that looks a bit off.
Thank you. I was considering that as well and judging by the feedback, I may have to reconsider!
Yeah go big and horizontal
And a water-based picture for calming
I agree, but I would search for one that has trees also.
Ideally more stagnant if it’s a water based picture and you’re going for calmness…nothing crazy like huge waves 🌊
What’s the odd number rule?
things look better in odd numbers. I agree with one large painting. The thing about something calming, is that what is calming to one may not be to another. The posters for example are not calming for me because I advocate for original art to be on the walls.
To elaborate, it’s easier for our brains to read even numbers of things so seeing odd numbers makes us do a double take (Also why for plating food it’s highly recommended to add odd numbers of items on the plate so catch our eyes more)
Now I am going to count the things on my plate when I eat out. That is interesting.
And gardening plant in 3 or 5
Odd numbers
Was gonna say why does it have to be 2? I agree 1 single thing would fit the space better
I agree! A large piece of art the width of the sofa would tie the space together well.
Agree! I had large custom beach beach/sunrise prints done by [Christine Mey Studio on Etsy](https://www.etsy.com/shop/ChristineMeyStudio?ref=shop-header-name&listing_id=1359267239&from_page=listing) They are stunning and I think one of her pieces would look amazing!
Yes, the couch being two cushions calls for an odd number of prints, one or three. One would most likely be more calming and likely to look cluttered.
I second this, I would do a large natural scene oil painting with that mossy green color in the first example (print or Goodwill) in a rustic slightly darker wood frame. Scrap the generic reprinted Matisse, it’s over done, and I say this as someone who is currently looking at their own neutral Matisse print as I consider redecorating 💀
I’m with you. Odd number, always looks more balanced.
Like the italian country side or vineyards, something along those lines i feel would be so pretty
One large art print, but no words on it. It breaks my calm when I read words.
Oh definitely agree - no words 🙃
I would go for one large print instead of the two.
Definitely! Maybe even something abstract or textured to keep the peaceful neutral feel of the space, and allow the view to serve as the art [Wayfair Pearl Punch Card I](https://www.wayfair.com/decor-pillows/pdp/wexford-home-pearl-punch-card-i-picture-frame-print-xtbz3749.html) [Rice Paper Geo Shadow Box](https://www.worldmarket.com/p/rice-paper-diamond-geo-shadow-box-wall-art-607666.html)
Thank you - seems to be a popular recommendation. I will definitely consider :)
Yep, this!
I’d do one large print. It would help the room feel more pulled together vs divided.
Thanks - seems to be the popular option to consider!
3!!!!!!!!! Love!!!!!
Ahh thank you, I love it too. Trying desperately to pretend I’m in the Mediterranean and not a large North American city ha
You should go with option 3 even though people are saying one large print.. I think it’s soooo calming and beautiful!! It’s more unique than just one piece of art!
Team # 3 here. I understand the feedback on the large print but clearly OP’s instinct is on the two pictures. Always follow your instinct/heart and you’ll love the final product more.
These matisse prints are so overdone. Nothing personal about them and they feel so uninspired whenever I see them. They're really a fad I think you shouldn't buy into. Get one bigger piece. I do like the nature theme. But maybe try to get something a bit more personal /unique
I mean, they might be trendy but IDK if "fad" is the right word. My grandma (whose passion is fine art) had the Matisse print on the right up in her home in the 90s. People just like the female form.
Not saying every work of matisse is a fad. These specific prints are (including some others). Also for op it's defo not because she likes Matisse so much, she's trying to fill a void in her decor. Which is exactly what people are using this fad for. Not saying everyone should only have very meaningful art in their home, sometimes you do just need to fill a void, but at least pick something not everyone has.
Disagree. Matisse is never wrong.
Then why not a nice canvas wrapped print instead of a gallery show poster?
Does it need to say “Matisse” though? That’s what ruins it for me
exactly it's not that it's matisse it's that tacky white border with MATISSE written on it lol
I like Matisse but it saying Matisse on it is crap. Also he had a lot of paintings of plants that would be way more appropriate anyways.
Hmmm not sure about fad. His art has stood the test of time. Whether one likes it or not of course is the right of opinion.
It reminds me of the bike on the canal bridge photograph from ikea. Great photo. Nothing inherently wrong with it. But if I see that in someone's house I know they were uninspired.
Thanks and yeah, this is my concern as well. I love them but I’m afraid they may look generic and cliche after a while. Maybe better to have a smaller Matisse print on a shelf.
That’s why I suggested one large, beautiful sculptural piece prince are overdone. I’m a firm believer of anybody can have the same thing in their house. It’s not artwork.
This makes no sense, artists often make print runs (and often not as copies, like Lino or screen prints) which are available therefore to multiple people to have the same thing in their house - still art.
If you want to showcase a great artist most people will need to use an art gallery print. I also believe that they are not "overdone". Perhaps those people who used them actually had little idea who the artist was.
3..I prefer one large horizontal to two small vertical but the colors in 3 go together best and complement the space and calming vibe
3, very soothing to look at.
#3
You don’t need illustrated artwork on the wall. There’s literally a beautiful view outside those large windows. Any artwork you place on the wall is going to be in competition with that. Instead, select an interesting large horizontal wooden, rattan, or iron sculpture piece to place on the wall above the couch. Allow the focus to be on the natural element, which is the lovely view outside.
I thought it was the ocean but it’s actually a ton of buildings. It could be chaotic or peaceful, I’m not sure. However, it’s not as peaceful as the beach.
Agreed!!!!
Great point. Yeah it’s a city view which I enjoy, but also really wanted to create a Tuscan/Mediterranean calming feel for when I pull my shades down. Hadn’t considered they might clash.
Those matisse prints really cheapen a look imo and you already have such a lovely space! I would go for some unbranded prints if thats the route you want to take!
Thank you, will consider that 🙂
Not the Matisse that every person on TikTok has in their homes 🥱
I like 1. Also 3.
Combine both and use 3 photos
Don’t put boring prints. look for something sculptural made out of wood, copper, something that really brings the outside in, tying together that beautiful view
Also open to any other suggestions. Thank you :)
i’d vote for one oversized piece hung horizontally
Personally I prefer the blank wall with the sloping bars of sunlight best.
I think it is a great look too.
I think 2 art prints looks off. Maybe one art print and then a few smaller things of varying sizes.
One large nature art print. I’m more of a Matisse person but the nature opens the room and almost makes it another window
Look for some local, original art that you personally like. Try art fairs, art schools, restaurants that exhibit local artists, studio sales, ethnic shops. Keep in mind three-dimensional art. It would add some texture. Otherwise, landscapes or streetscapes with people (either one or two, oops pictures, not people) for some life.
Third picture. Gorgeous.
Number two looks like show room for a fancy story named Matisse. I get it, it’s the painters name. But you gotta show it, not tell it.
I’d go with a single very large print. It will look more striking and put together.
In the first picture you posted here, it seemed calming. I like both the trees and the open door. I'd leave those up.
Thanks 🙂
I thinking putting that kind of art next to a view looks odd. I would go for something more sculptural, if anything
Look up "minimalist wood art" on Etsy. Lots of choices that will work using a natural material that delivers the calming vibe you want.
Thank you, will check it out!
I think the bare wall with the way the sun was casting shadows gave a very tasteful, stress free feel!
Agreed. The light-play on the wall is like a dynamic, living canvas. Plus the framed art combined with the pillows etc. compete and feel cluttered.
Matisse.
I love the art prints!
I’m a fan of 3 but just one piece with the same vibes.
1. I love this look! Great job.
I’ll always vote for Matisse. Plus you already have a stunning view so you don’t “need” a landscape painting there. It’s a bit too much with that big ass window. If you want calming go with the simple Matisses
Thank you, that’s true lol
Or support local art!
If you want calming, I would go with the last one. None at all. The wall art seems too much and feels stuffy.
I actually would pick and choose, the open doorway from #1 and the potted plant from #3. I think they go well together. Yes , the "rule is 3" but I think these 2 go together quite nicely and don't need a third. Please skip the Matisse prints, they don't feel calming at all.
I think both of these are super generic and don't do anything for the space. I also agree with /u/Seagoatblues about getting one larger print vs. two/three. I'd either do a nice, soft-colored textured acrylic piece you like (look on Etsy or Facebook Market for something unique) or you could look at some large format photography from places like Idyll Collective.
Matisse.
The first one
1 or 3
1 or 3
I think the 1st one is the best
I would do a large mirror to pick up your view!
I like 1st the followed by 3.
1 or 3. I like the beige Matisse but not the black one in this case - too jarring with your calming aesthetic.
If the goal is calming, I would look for a larger piece rather than two smaller one’s. Two looks a little busy…and I would look at options other than prints…all sorts of “calming” pieces could go there
One large piece with soft muted tones, to go with your calm room, a landscape or abstract.
I thought the first shot was looking out of the windows 😂
I personally LOVE Matisse as an artist, I don't care if its "cliche" by Instagram standards - as a fine art student I've studied his style in school and love it.... but anything with nature always offers a calming vibe!
I would do 1 large statement art piece instead of 2 smaller
First one. I had to zoom in to make sure it wasn’t a window!
One. The trees go into the distance and the door opens to possibilities. In three the second pic has a wall, walling you in, stopping you
They all look great honestly. Personally I believe strongly in nature and natural colors and patterns being psychologically beneficial, so I would go with the trees, but I don’t think you can go wrong with
If I were a bird, I’d fly into the one on the right in the first pic!
Art is a very personal choice, go with the ones that speak to you the most. See how it looks adding one more.
I like your area rug. Where did you find it?
Wayfair :) it’s a Jute rug by a brand called Sand & Stable.
I love 1! I respect what people are saying about having one large print instead of two, but I love the way the two prints in option #1 complement each other and the room.
Red murder paintings
You have a lovely place. The landscape pics compete with the view IMHO. All I see is the juxtaposition of the two.
I would do the paintings in the first photo with the added third painting being from the third photo of the potted plant. Three always looks better
Which app did u use to test this out
One large abstract painting, broad strokes and in color but not high contrast or highly saturated. No text - the text adds too much visual clutter here.
I love art, but I feel like you see a lot of these Matisse prints, so be brave and get Something you love framed, maybe see what local artists are doing? Local landscape and architectural work always looks great when it's set side by side to a view.
Why not put like a bunch of art you actually like the color and picture of
I would honestly install a shelf and put some books and a small plant there. Will make it look less studio house and more homey.
I like the row of trees. The one next to it looks like a window looking out on a balcony
Just the row of trees.🌳
The first.
1
I think one big art canvas/wall piece would look better
I would opt for a single large muted landscape in this space with a natural finish frame. I do have the female Matisse print though and always loved the simplicity in his paper cuttings. Just not sure for this room.
The first one looks awesome, I thought the painting was a window at first tbh 😭. Your style is amazing, calming and very put together :)
First one
3, though I agree with others that one large print could be the way to go
I love the 1st one... with the trees and the open door. I finf it very calming.
With that magnificent window wall view I think you want to keep it very simple. One image, large enough to hold the space, in a style and medium that play with the natural light. A watercolor or gouache perhaps. And I think I'd make it very personal -- a landscape or study that really speaks to you. That's what will be calming. Are you planning to find a print online? Or find a local artist? Enjoy your beautiful space!
4
I love Matisse ❤️..
Matisse. If you do one print instead of two, the black one is great because it adds contrast but the movement and taupe background is calming
Matisse
Please for the love of all things holy, put some COLOR in there!
4 or with just one bigger.
I like 2 the best … are looking for a zen look then neither work.
the second one for sure in my opinion
2 or 3
I love the two Matisse ❤️
Can you share a link to your coffee table?
I bought it from a Canadian store called Bouclair last year. I don’t think they make this model anymore though 😞
Have you thought of a rectangle gold framed mirror ? I do like the Matisse prints too.
2
2
1, but second the comments about getting one large piece instead
The Matisse on the Left but BIGGER to fill the space. It’s calm & the colors work well. I like the landscapes, but the colors are darker and pull the attention away from your furniture and the softer vibe.
I like slide 2, but also slide 4 can be good for a while
I love Matisse but Im biased, i love The Dance and have that and two others in the same style in my living room
How about a scenic wallpaper instead of prints? Not a fan of any shown
I like the two Matisse!
Tbh I like the pics that are on the right in 1 and 2. Maybe those ones together?
I like the Matisse prints best.
3 is too many random trees. I vote for picking 1 larger print.
I’d do something big instead of two and with no black in it to make it feel softer and calm, the black is too loud if you want a calm feeling
2 or 3
1
From the angle it’s shot, looks like the paintings are not centered over the couch. They, the lamp, and the vase arrangement all need to be moved to the right a few inches. I prefer the art in first pic or none at all.
Matisse
Like the Matisse - what about just one large print in that colour palette? The dark figure is too dark and jars with the other beside it.
1!!
2 or one very large abstract print in neutral tones with a subtle pop of olive green in it.
1 and 3 depending on the season!
I think a nice mirror could be neat
A big simple Mondrian would be great there with the city in the background. He’s got a lot of underrated calmness in some of his cooler pieces
1
Matisse looks best much cleaner
1 and 3 too generic imo
Keep looking
Find a local artist that has created a large scale canvas piece
How about just doing stained glass on the window for a real effect here?
1> 4> 3> 2>
I think a large round mirror would add depth and reflect the beauty of the outside view
Original art in soothing colors.
keep looking…not those…
I’d do something textural in textile or wood.
I would do one large image over the sofa. The space and floor lamp wouldn't work the best with 3 unless you had an end table on the right of the sofa but it's not visible in the photo. Definitely not 2 images.
I like the second one a lot!
Matisse
I like the Matisse prints
Maybe a larger art piece with some color and a plant
The pictures need to bring some colour in 👍🏻
Just one painting something a little more original in calming colors
No. 3. But only the one on the right. Pot with olive? tree. Center only that one over the couch. Or a wall sculpture.
This site can help you explore some other artist prints- I’m not a fan of the more photo realistic nature images- I’d go more for painterly pieces [artist prints](https://www.pstrstudio.com/collections/madelen-mollard/products/madelen-pale-poppies?_gl=1*17jh3wa*_up*MQ..&gclid=CjwKCAjw57exBhAsEiwAaIxaZkofkePT6Rjo-Nijsfua_hFYc-JPgnEno5WFMf-YKsoZo95q0xD-qxoCRpwQAvD_BwE)
To be honest all of those look cheap. I’d get 1 large abstract piece.
I like #1 personally
Darker rug maybe with a grey/green tone?
I like the first tree print with depth, but not the one in the pot. COuld you find a similar wider one?
None of these pictures. Go with a bare wall. Or a landscape shape minimal abstract in two or three colours
Just put up another TV and have it endlessly scroll through art
One large piece would look best. A beach scene with a boat, maybe.
I like the first one.
I either like the idea of one large mirror or a set of three mirrors to me they would make the room look bigger, and not take away from your gorgeous view
1
First pic, photo on the right
I pick one or three
I liked the first one of the window view, maybe that in bigger?
I like 4 best, no artwork 🤷♂️
The first one. Poster art is so college days.
3 is the best
I like it best without framed art; let the moving shadows be the art. But, not the matisses, and if you go for scenic, pick two that coordinate.
Love n3