Decorating your walls with art is an exciting way to personalize your home, but choosing the perfect piece can be tricky. What size works best? Will the colors match your decor? How will it look on your wall? Thankfully, technology has simplified the process with apps designed to visualize wall art before buying.
Using augmented reality (AR) and other visualization tools, these apps allow you to "try before you buy," helping you make confident decisions about your artwork. This article highlights the best apps for visualizing wall art, making your shopping experience easier, faster, and stress-free.
Why Use Apps to Visualize Wall Art?
- See the Artwork in Your Space: These apps let you see exactly how a piece of art will look on your walls before making a purchase.
- Get the Size Right: Visualizing art to scale helps avoid the common mistake of buying something too big or too small.
- Experiment with Placement: Test different arrangements, positions, and wall colors without lifting a hammer.
- Save Time and Money: By narrowing down your options, you can avoid returns and buyer’s remorse.
The Best Apps for Visualizing Wall Art
1. ArtPlacer
ArtPlacer is a popular app for art lovers, galleries, and interior designers. Its AR feature allows you to visualize art on your walls in real time.
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Features:
- Upload a photo of your room or use AR to view art live on your wall.
- Scale art to match real-life dimensions.
- Browse artworks from participating galleries or upload your own.
- Why It’s Great: Its simple interface and accurate scaling make it ideal for testing multiple pieces.
2. Saatchi Art App
The Saatchi Art app connects you to a vast collection of original artworks and prints, with a built-in visualization tool.
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Features:
- View thousands of pieces by emerging and established artists.
- Use the AR tool to place art on your walls virtually.
- Shop directly from the app after finding your perfect piece.
- Why It’s Great: With one of the largest art collections online, it’s a go-to for discovering unique, high-quality pieces.
3. WallApp
WallApp is designed specifically to help you visualize wall art in your space. It’s simple, straightforward, and easy to use.
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Features:
- Upload a photo of your wall to see how different artworks will look.
- Adjust size and placement to scale.
- Compatible with any artwork image.
- Why It’s Great: Perfect for users who want a quick and intuitive way to preview art on their walls.
4. IKEA Place
While primarily for furniture, IKEA Place also allows you to visualize framed wall art and decor from IKEA's collection.
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Features:
- AR technology to place art and furniture in your space.
- Access to IKEA’s catalog of prints and wall art.
- Real-time scaling for accurate placement.
- Why It’s Great: Ideal for those already shopping at IKEA or looking for art that matches their furniture.
5. Art.com App
Art.com’s app combines a large selection of wall art with powerful visualization tools.
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Features:
- Try any artwork on your wall using AR.
- Custom framing options to match your decor.
- Easy checkout after finding the right piece.
- Why It’s Great: A seamless experience from visualization to purchase, with plenty of customization options.
6. Curate App
Curate is a favorite among galleries, artists, and art enthusiasts for its realistic visualization features.
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Features:
- Upload images of your space to test art placement.
- Adjust size, lighting, and positioning for accurate previews.
- Browse works from artists and galleries.
- Why It’s Great: Its user-friendly interface makes it accessible for both professionals and casual art buyers.
7. Etsy App
Etsy offers a treasure trove of handmade and unique art, and its app includes a useful AR tool for trying pieces in your home.
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Features:
- Explore millions of art pieces from independent creators.
- Use the "View in Your Room" feature for AR visualization.
- Connect directly with artists for custom requests.
- Why It’s Great: Perfect for those seeking personalized, one-of-a-kind artwork.
8. Measure by Google
While not specifically for art, Measure is a helpful tool for ensuring artwork fits your space.
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Features:
- Use AR to measure wall dimensions accurately.
- Test the size of artwork or frames before purchasing.
- Why It’s Great: A simple way to double-check dimensions for a perfect fit.
How to Use These Apps Effectively
- Take a Clear Photo of Your Wall: Ensure good lighting and minimal obstructions in your image for accurate visualization.
- Measure Your Space: Even with scaling tools, knowing your wall dimensions ensures the artwork is a perfect fit.
- Experiment With Placement: Test different heights, arrangements, and orientations to find the ideal look.
- Consider Wall Colors: Many apps allow you to change wall colors digitally to see how the art looks in different settings.
- Compare Multiple Pieces: Don’t settle on the first option—test various artworks to see what resonates most with your space.
Tips for Choosing the Perfect Wall Art
- Match Your Style: Consider your room’s overall aesthetic, whether it’s modern, minimalist, boho, or traditional.
- Think About Color: Choose art that complements your existing color palette or adds a striking contrast.
- Consider Size and Scale: Larger pieces work well as focal points, while smaller ones are great for gallery walls or accents.
- Personal Connection: Select pieces that resonate with you emotionally or reflect your personality.
Conclusion
Choosing the right wall art for your home doesn’t have to be a guessing game. With virtual visualization apps, you can confidently find pieces that fit your space, style, and personality. From curated collections to customizable options, these tools make the process simple, enjoyable, and stress-free.
So, grab your smartphone or tablet, download one of these apps, and start turning your walls into a gallery of your own design.
