Blank Walls? No Problem!

{photo from Visual Vamp -- I think??} 

A very common decorating dilemma is the ever so daunting blank wall behind the sofa scenario.  I am constantly looking at how different designers address a wall that in my opinion, can make or break a room.  I have found the most common mistake people make is scale.  Scale is one of the most important design elements.  Always, always, err on the side of too big when it comes to artwork.  I much prefer larger pieces on a wall that make an impact over a scattering of things that are too small and random - major pet peeve.  A very favorite way to address this wall is a large Oriental screen as seen in the photo above.  When decorating on a budget (which as we say at work, everybody has a budget) these large pieces, especially screens can be tricky.  My friend, Katherine, let me in on a little secret...Horchow Finale.  She got her screen for a very  good price, and I have one over my sofa that I found in the clearance ding and dent section of the outlet for $200.  

Another way I like to see the wall behind the sofa addressed is with a series. Whether it be maps or prints, this look is very polished and symmetrical and allows other parts of your space to be quirky and a bit "off."  

I love these Paris Maps that Carolina scouted at the fabulous Houston store, Area. 

This (as seen in Elle Decor, May 2007) is a room I just keep coming back to.  It makes every part of me want to completely redo my living room and go all white and neutral (I'm a color lover, but I'm working towards this).  

{Photo by:William Waldron from House of Turquoise}

I love how Jan Showers used the architecture of the room to incorporate antiqued mirror flanked by a series.

{photo from Girl Meets Glamour}

I love how different pieces of art are hung on a framed mirror, genius! 

Like I mentioned, I am a huge fan of oversized {contemporary} art of the sofa.  

{photo via Habitually Chic}

I LOVE this piece, and talk about oversized!  

{photo from The Newlywed Diaries}

The art makes this room feel fresh, not stuffy.

Another no-fail trick is a fabulous mirror flanked by art/photos on either side. 

{Jan Showers}

{photo via The Paris Apartment}

Love, Love, Love, this grouping by Ruthie Sommers. 

{Ashley Whittaker}

Symmetry is key in this Living Room designed by Scott Laslie for the Traditional Home's "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun" Showhouse.  

Bottom Line: Think scale, think drama, and think symmetrically.  This will make your room balanced and allow you to experiment with your furniture and accessories.