When it comes to office design, we often focus on furniture, lighting, and layout—but wall art can be just as important. In fact, studies in environmental psychology show that artwork in a workspace can improve focus, boost mood, and even reduce stress.
Whether you work from home, in a shared co-working space, or manage a commercial office, adding the right art prints can enhance not just how a space looks, but how it feels to be in it. Here’s how carefully chosen wall art can positively influence your working environment—and which types of prints are best for productivity and well-being.
Why Art Prints Matter in the Workplace
The brain responds to visual stimuli almost instantly. A bare or uninspiring wall can create a sense of sterility or disengagement, while a well-placed art print can make the space feel more human, dynamic, and energised.
Key benefits of art in the workplace include:
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Improved concentration and cognitive function
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Reduced stress and visual fatigue
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Enhanced creativity and idea generation
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Boosted mood and emotional wellbeing
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Greater connection to the space (which leads to better productivity)
Best Types of Art Prints for Workspaces
Different styles of wall art can trigger different psychological responses. Here’s how to select art prints that support your workday goals—whether that’s deep focus, creative thinking, or simply feeling inspired.
1. Abstract Prints for Creativity and Open Thinking
Abstract art—especially fluid shapes and soft, blended colours—can open up the imagination. These prints encourage free thinking and help reduce mental rigidity, which is especially helpful in creative industries or brainstorming zones.
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Best for: Creative agencies, home studios, idea sessions
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Try: Soft pastels, colour-blocking, or expressive brushstrokes
2. Nature and Landscape Prints to Reduce Stress
Research shows that nature imagery reduces cortisol (the stress hormone) and promotes calm. Landscape prints, botanical illustrations, or even macro photography of natural textures can bring a restorative balance to a busy office.
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Best for: High-pressure workspaces or home offices
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Try: Mountain scenes, ocean views, forest photography, or floral watercolours
3. Black and White Photography for Focus and Sophistication
Monochrome prints have a clean, timeless feel. They reduce visual noise and help maintain a sense of focus. Architectural photography or portraits can also convey professionalism and elegance in meeting rooms or executive offices.
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Best for: Professional settings or minimal-style offices
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Try: Cityscapes, classic portraits, or textural images in black and white
4. Motivational Typography for Positive Reinforcement
Sometimes, words really do matter. Bold, minimalist quote prints or typographic art can provide daily reminders of purpose, drive, and vision. These are especially effective when aligned with a team’s values or an entrepreneur’s mission.
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Best for: Entrepreneurial spaces, home desks, co-working offices
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Try: Black and white quotes, vintage typewriter fonts, or modern sans-serif designs
5. Colour Psychology in Art Prints
The colours in a print can directly affect your energy levels:
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Blue promotes calm, stability, and trust
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Green is associated with balance and wellbeing
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Yellow energises and uplifts
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Red increases alertness and urgency (but can also cause overstimulation)
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Neutral tones help with grounding and focus
Choosing art prints that feature the right colour palette for your goals can subtly influence how productive and balanced you feel during the day.
Tips for Placing Art Prints in Your Office
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Hang prints at eye level—roughly 145cm from the floor to the centre of the artwork
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Choose one large statement piece or a small gallery of 2–4 coordinating prints
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Frame prints for a polished, professional look
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Rotate prints seasonally or quarterly to keep the space feeling fresh
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Avoid clutter—each print should have breathing room to make an impact
Home Office vs. Commercial Office Prints
In a home office, your art prints can be more personal and reflective of your passions—whether that’s travel photography, favourite quotes, or prints by independent artists.
In a shared or commercial office, aim for more neutral, universally appealing artwork. Stick to calming, high-quality prints that suit your brand aesthetic and won’t distract from the work at hand.
