As I write this blog, a Farrow & Ball paint color fan is sitting next to me, and I’m debating whether to repaint the entire living room.

It's October, and I don’t think I’m the only one who starts to get the urge this month to make the home feel cozy again. Summer is truly behind us now, we’re retreating indoors, and it's time to refresh our spaces for the colder months ahead. It’s no coincidence that in the Netherlands  October is called 'Home Month'—the perfect moment to turn your house back into a warm and inviting home.

Sure, you could grab a paint roller and redecorate your entire house, but did you know that art can achieve the same effect? Art that speaks to you, that reflects your personality, can completely transform your space without requiring major changes.

I’d love to share a few tips on how to breathe new life into your interior with a new piece of art, or how to cast your existing art collection in a fresh light.

QUEENY | 80x100cm | oils on linen

1. Add color and warmth to your home with art.

You don’t need to paint walls to give your interior a fresh color boost. Art can introduce subtle hues and accents that blend seamlessly with your existing decor. Take my painting 'KIKI,' for example, where rich shades of red dominate, or 'DAVY,' where blue is the main color. You can easily reflect these colors in your space by choosing small accessories like cushions, candles, or a vase in similar tones. This way, the artwork becomes a natural part of the room, adding balance and warmth.

The perfect spot for your art

An artwork can transform the atmosphere of a room, but only if it’s hung at the right height. A common mistake is hanging paintings too high. The center of the artwork should be at eye level, which typically means between 145 and 160 cm from the floor. If you're hanging art above a piece of furniture, such as a sofa or a sideboard, make sure there isn’t too much empty space between the furniture and the artwork. The piece should visually connect with the rest of the room, creating a cohesive look.

Imagine hanging my painting 'FLORIS' above your sofa. This piece, with its soft lines and earthy tones of ochre and gray, brings calm and serenity to the room. By positioning it at the right height and pairing it with cushions or a throw in matching tones, you instantly create a harmonious feel.

FLORIS| 80x160cm | oils on linen

3. Play with lighting

Lighting brings artwork to life. Make sure your piece is well-lit, but avoid using overly bright spotlights that can wash out the artwork. Opt instead for soft, indirect lighting that highlights the colors and details of the painting. The right lighting can enhance the mood of the artwork, and in turn, the atmosphere of the room.

DIVO| 80x180cm | oils on linen

4. Choose the right size

The size of an artwork is crucial to the feel of your space. A piece that’s too small on a large, empty wall can get lost, while an oversized piece in a small room can feel overwhelming. Take my painting 'MAX,' for example—a large work that fits perfectly above a spacious dining table or in a living room with high ceilings. This piece immediately draws attention and serves as the focal point of the room.

In smaller rooms, however, you might opt for a series of smaller works, like my 'NUTHATCH' collection. These pieces can make a subtle yet stylish statement together without overpowering the space.

5. Refresh your art collection by changing its location

Sometimes, you might feel like you’ve grown a bit tired of a painting, even though it’s still a beautiful piece. Instead of buying new art, try moving your existing collection around. Hang a piece that’s always been in the living room in the bedroom, or move a painting from the hallway to your home office. By displaying artworks in different spaces, you’ll see them in a completely new light.

Take my painting 'CHARLIE'—the leopard with its stunning eyes. After having it in your living room for years, it can feel completely fresh again when you hang it in the bedroom. You’ll be surprised by how revitalizing it can be to see your art in a new spot.

Art as the centerpiece of your interior

Art can do more than just decorate a room; it can give a space a soul. The artworks I create are meant to do more than just look beautiful on the wall. They are designed to convey a sense of calm, warmth, or even energy, depending on what your home needs at that moment. By thoughtfully integrating art into your interior, you not only create a stylish environment but also a home that truly feels like you.
So, if you're looking to refresh your interior, you don't need to start by painting all of your walls or redecorating your whole house right away. Consider the power of art and how a well-placed, well-lit, and thoughtfully chosen piece can breathe new life into your entire home.

Do you want advice on which of my paintings would fit best in your space? Or do you have a specific piece in mind but are unsure if it will work in your home? Send me a photo of your interior, and I’ll show you, as in the photos here, how your favorite artwork would fit into your space.

Also, take a look at the GALLERY SHOP for all the artworks currently available to help turn your house back into a home.