Using Botanical Art to Create Visual Focus in a Room
The aesthetic quality of botanical art is far more than simply decorative. By providing a visual anchor for the eye, botanical art can provide a sense of balance, order and purpose within a room. The type of style in which your home is designed (modern, traditional, etc.) is less important when choosing botanical art as it is able to add a sense of calm and connection to nature regardless of your home's design.
If you find yourself using Pinterest for inspiration on how to decorate your home, then botanical art is one of the most frequently searched and saved décor elements among interior design enthusiasts.
What Does "Visual Focus" Mean in Interior Design?
In interior design, a visual focus is the primary point of attention in a room. When a room has too many points of visual focus, it can appear flat, cluttered and/or unfinished. On the other hand, if a room has only one point of visual focus, it will give the eye something to fixate on, thereby giving the remainder of the room a sense of balance and cohesion.
Botanical art is a fantastic example of what a visual focus looks like due to its organic shape, natural color palette and timeless appeal. In addition, botanical art provides interest without overwhelming a space.
Why Botanical Art Is Such an Effective Example of Visual Focus
Botanical art links indoor spaces with the outdoors, which creates a calming and grounding effect. Additionally, leaves, flowers, stems, etc. provide softness to the hard surfaces that exist in indoor environments (walls, floors, furniture, etc.).
Finally, because botanical artwork includes everything from very simple line drawings to very detailed and elaborate illustrations, it is able to be used in almost any room and any design style. Its versatility allows for the creation of a visual focus that still appears to be harmonious and therefore is a great choice for adding a strong visual focus to a room.
Where to Place Your Botanical Artwork for Maximum Visual Focus
The location of the wall art is equally as important as the artwork itself when attempting to create visual focus. Look for walls that are naturally drawing attention (behind sofas, beds, tables) or entryways and stairs walls to place your botanical artwork.
A single large botanical print can serve as a statement piece, while a curated gallery wall of smaller botanical artwork can create a sense of depth and visual rhythm.
How to Use Color and Contrast to Create the Most Visual Focus
Depending on your color selection, botanical art can either blend softly into a room or stand out boldly. If you want to create a soothing and cohesive look in a room, select artwork that matches colors already present in your space (greens, neutrals, earthy tones).
If your room feels flat, you can use botanical art with darker colors (rich florals, deep green, etc.) or contrasting backgrounds to create instant contrast and draw the eye to the artwork. This is especially true for neutral or minimalist interiors where a striking piece of artwork can transform the overall feeling of a room.
Using Botanical Art to Create Balance in a Room
A focal point should be intentional, but not overpowering. To create balance, surround your botanical artwork with furniture, lighting and/or accessories that support it. For example, pair botanical wall art with natural textures (wood, linen, rattan) to further emphasize the organic feel of the artwork.
Adding plants near your botanical art can also enhance the visual theme of the artwork and create a layered and cohesive look that is popular among Pinterest users.
Tips to Style Your Space Like a Pro
To create a visually appealing and shareable space, keep the styling clean and uncluttered. Give your botanical art enough breathing room by not placing too much around the artwork (on the same wall, surrounding the wall).
Vertical botanical prints work well in narrow spaces, while horizontal artwork works well on wide walls and above furniture. Frame styles matter, as well. Simple frames allow the viewer to see the artwork clearly, while ornate frames can add character to more traditional spaces.
Final Thoughts
One of the easiest and best ways to take a room up a notch is by using botanical art to create visual focus. It brings nature indoors, adds a personal touch, and gives your space a distinct design anchor.
Regardless of whether you decide to go with a bold statement piece or carefully curate a gallery wall, botanical art helps to create a beautiful, well-designed and peaceful environment. It is no wonder that botanical décor continues to be the most searched and saved topic on Pinterest across all interior design trends.