AdviceInterior designPainting and decorating

Quirky and Unique Wall Art Ideas

I am a big fan of decorating my walls with unique wall art. Think supersized mirrors, huge canvases I’ve picked up from auction houses for a song, rugs even. I think now more than ever, it’s time to spice up your walls just in time for all those extra hours that we are about to spend indoors now that autumn has finally hit!

If you’re wanting to know what the chicest things are that you can do to your walls then read on.

Unique wall art ideas

Faux taxidermy

unique wall art

This is a trend that is sticking around. It has been with us for what seems like ages but now it has gotten super glam. I’ve designed a faux taxidermy range for Debenhams and have flocked them so they look like they’ve been covered in the most luxurious velvet (super tactile). It’s just as majestic as the real thing but cooler, more modern and, of course, animal friendly. I’m all for using them as one unique focal point but of course you can go any which way.

Rugs on walls

unusual wall decor

Not many people do this but I think it’s a game changer. Hanging rugs on walls is a lot like an art installation. It solves the dilemma of the big empty wall saga and if you opt for a pattern or motif (no matter how small) it will add instant pizazz. Don’t skimp on size – I’ve hung a massive one in my hallway and it adds such impact. If you can tie in the colours with the rest of your scheme it will balance your space, however if you want to create a focal point there then don’t worry about such a thing. As I say all the time, there is no right and wrong when it comes to decorating – just follow your heart.

Plates on walls

wall decoration ideas

You can go granny style and hang a load of vintage crockery on your walls or elevate them to works of art by choosing hand thrown ceramics and suspending them as an art installation. Take things one step further and look into the work of John Derian who specialises in decoupage and products by hand for a beautiful selection of plates made especially for walls. Again there are so many ways that you can go – you can choose one big colourful cluster, you can overlap them or have just a few. The best advice that I can give is to think outside of the box as much as you can. Old serving trays are another way to go. They’re often highly decorative and larger than plates; they instantly infuse a wall with style.

Baskets on walls

wall decor

I am obsessed with baskets and have them all over my home to house my log collection as we have fires burning every eve in this house. Being such a multitasker, they are not only a practical storage option but they are also incredibly decorative and add instant texture and warmth to walls.

DIY artwork

I am a bit of a fan of the DIY artwork route because you can create gallery style pieces for next to nothing. I bought canvases from the local art shop and wrapped them in fabric and wallpaper, painting on one solid hue a la Rothko. It’s such a simple way to add warmth and style without spending big bucks.

Books as art

wall art ideas

Something that I’ve done in the past for clients is to round up their old collection of books (go to charity shops if you don’t have many), remove the covers and then simply frame them. It’s the cheapest, fastest and simplest trick that you can do.

Feeling inspired to redecorate? Post a job on Rated People in our Painter / Decorator category to receive quotes from our qualified and trusted tradesmen.

Abigail Ahern

Interior designer and author Abigail Ahern has been hailed as ‘style spotter extraordinaire’, by The Times. Her style is as unique as it is affordable and is characterised by glamour, wit and show-stopping colours.

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6 Comments

    1. Hi Francesca,

      I’ve just spoken to Abigail, who tells me that the colour is ‘Rivington Blue’ from her collection (http://abigailahern.com/products/rivington-blue). She also asked me to tell you that as with all paints that use natural pigments the colour changes in the light (this photo was shot early in the morning), so its always best to test a large area before taking the leap and painting a large area. I hope this helps!

  1. I would love to locate one of the donkey heads. We own 3 mini donkeys and have an extensive collection, but never saw one of these before.
    How do I go about getting one? Thanks so much for your help!
    Vicki
    [email protected]

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