TL;DR
- Opt for Tapestries: Get stunning large-scale art for a fraction of the price of traditional prints.
- Frame It Yourself: Buy unframed prints and add your own frame to cut costs.
- Start Small: Smaller prints can make a big impact in intimate spaces like kitchens or bathrooms.
- Focus on Key Areas: Invest in statement pieces for high-impact spaces like living rooms or entryways.
- Choose Timeless Designs: Avoid trendy art and go for styles that stay relevant and luxurious for years.
- DIY Hanging: Save on installation by hanging your art yourself with easy-to-use hardware.
Luxury doesn’t have to break the bank
Transforming your home into a luxurious retreat doesn't have to cost a fortune. Small, thoughtful additions like fine art prints can completely transform the look and feel of your space. Whether you're designing a cosy living room, a chic office or a serene bedroom, the right artwork adds a sense of sophistication and personality.
But what exactly makes a room feel luxurious? It's not just about expensive furniture or quality materials - it's about creating harmony, showcasing unique pieces and curating a space that feels both polished and welcoming. Fine art prints are the perfect way to achieve this, offering stunning visuals, quality craftsmanship and timeless appeal.
In this article, we'll explore how fine art prints can bring affordable luxury to your home, with tips and ideas to help you create a space that feels like it belongs in a design magazine.
7 tips for buying fine art photography prints at a great price
As you can see in the table, getting a quality print on one of the popular materials is not cheap.
But we've put together 7 tips to enjoy large-format photography at a significantly lower cost.
See how much you can save by comparing the prices of our tips with those of regular prints.
| Canvas Prints | Framed Prints | Metal Prints | Acrylic Prints | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12″ x 8″ (30cm x 20cm) | $105.00 | $124.00 | $111.00 | $119.00 |
| 36″ x 24″ (91cm x 61cm) | $329.00 | $360.00 | $266.00 | $308.00 |
| 60″ x 40″ (152cm x 102cm) | $589.00 | $583.00 | $582.00 | $567.00 |
Tip #1: Tapestry
You can get an art tapestry with a printed photograph for a significantly lower price than a similarly sized art print.
- Price for 50" x 61" tapestry: $51
- Price for 88" x 104" tapestry: $83
Tip #2: Frame it yourself
Instead of buying an expensive framed photo, buy a regular art print and frame it yourself. It's not that hard and you can find lots of tutorials on YouTube 🙂
- 12″ x 8″ (30cm x 20cm): $63
- 36″ x 24″ (91cm x 61cm): $176
- 60″ x 40″ (152cm x 102cm): $312
Tip #3: Start small
You don't need oversized pieces to make an impact. Smaller prints can add elegance to intimate spaces such as bathrooms, kitchens or reading areas. Group several smaller pieces together for a gallery effect that feels curated and intentional.
Tip #4. Opt for unframed prints
If you're on a budget, consider starting with unframed fine art prints. This allows you to choose your own affordable framing options later, giving you flexibility without sacrificing quality.
Tip #5: Focus on high impact areas
Prioritise areas where art will make the biggest difference, such as over the sofa, in the dining area or in an entrance hall. A single statement piece in a strategic location can transform a room.
Tip #6: Choose timeless designs
Choose art that complements your style but isn't overly trendy. Timeless pieces will remain relevant and luxurious for years to come, saving you money on frequent updates.
Tip #7: DIY hanging
Save on installation costs by hanging your prints yourself. With easy-to-follow instructions and pre-installed hanging hardware, displaying your artwork can be both affordable and satisfying.
What makes a space luxurious?
Luxury isn't just about price tags or brand names - it's about the way a space feels. A truly luxurious space has a sense of balance, thoughtfulness and a touch of individuality that sets it apart. Certain elements can instantly elevate the atmosphere, whether it's a minimalist, modern space or a classic, cosy interior.
Unique pieces: Incorporating artwork or decor that isn't mass-produced adds a sense of exclusivity. Fine art prints are a perfect example, adding a personal touch that tells a story.
Harmony: Luxury is all about balance. From the colours on the walls to the textures of the furniture, each element should work seamlessly together. Art can help combine these elements by complementing the design and enhancing the overall aesthetic.
Quality materials: Luxury spaces often feature high-quality finishes that stand the test of time. Fine art prints made from archival materials bring museum-quality craftsmanship into your home.
Choosing and Strategically Placing Art for Maximum Impact
Choosing the perfect art for your home is more than just choosing a piece you like - it is about finding something that complements and enhances your space. Here are some tips to help you choose art that brings out the best in your interior:
1. Match the colour palette
Look for prints that either harmonise with your existing colours or provide a bold contrast. For example, a minimalist room with neutral tones can be enlivened with vibrant abstract art, while a colourful room might benefit from a more subdued, monochromatic piece.
2. Consider the theme or style
Think about the overall feel of the room. Are you going for a modern, industrial look? Consider metal or acrylic prints with simple, bold designs. For a cosy, traditional room, wood or canvas prints with warm tones may be more appropriate.
3. Get the right size
Scale matters. A large print can create a striking focal point in a living room, while smaller prints work well in hallways, bathrooms or grouped as part of a gallery wall. Always measure your wall space before choosing a size to ensure the artwork fits proportionally.
4. Choose meaningful pieces
Luxury isn't just about aesthetics - it's about emotion. Choose art that resonates with you or tells a story, such as a serene landscape for a soothing bedroom or an abstract piece to inspire creativity in your office.
5. Mix and match
Don't be afraid to combine different types of prints and styles. A mix of canvas, metal and framed prints can add depth and visual interest to your space.
6. Create a focal point
Large prints or bold artworks can act as the centrepiece of a room. Place them over a sofa, bed or fireplace to draw attention and anchor the space. Make sure the art is at eye level for maximum impact.
7. Create a gallery wall
Combine several pieces of different sizes and styles to create a dynamic gallery wall. This works well in living rooms, hallways, or stairwells. Arrange the pieces on the floor beforehand to experiment with different configurations.
8. Consider the purpose of the room
The art you choose and the place where you place it should match the room's function. For example:
- Living room: Choose conversation pieces placed prominently.
- Bedroom: Choose soothing artwork over the bed to promote relaxation.
- Office: Use inspirational or motivational prints in your workspace.
9. Play with light
Highlight your artwork with strategically placed lighting. Spotlights or picture lights can make colours and textures pop and add a touch of drama to your display.
10. Keep to proportions
Choose artwork that matches the size of your wall. A small print on a large, empty wall can feel lost, while an oversized piece in a tight space can be overwhelming. When in doubt, combine several smaller prints to fill a larger area.
11. Use unexpected spaces
Don't limit art to the living room or bedroom. Bathrooms, kitchens and even walk-in closets can benefit from carefully chosen pieces that enhance their style.