Let’s be honest - not everyone has a grand hallway or a vast living room wall to fill with wall art. Some of us are working with nooks, narrow stairways, rented flats, or cosy corners that could do with a little love. But here’s the good news: small spaces are bursting with potential, and the right wall art print can make them sing.
As someone who creates animal artwork with lots of colour and character, I’ve always believed that a bold personality doesn’t need a massive wall art canvas to shine. In fact, some of my favourite spots for displaying wall art are the tiniest spaces in my home.
So, whether you're working with a petite reading corner, a kitchen wall, or a poky guest loo that requires a playful touch, let's explore how to infuse your space with a vibrant personality.
Why Small Spaces Deserve Big Energy
We often overlook smaller areas when thinking about wall art, but they’re actually the perfect spots for intentional decorating. When space is limited, every piece counts, and that gives you the chance to create real moments of joy and surprise.
A colourful animal wall art print can totally transform a space, giving it character, warmth, and a bit of cheeky charm. Think: a cockapoo near the kettle that makes you grin every morning, or a sassy cat peeking out in the hallway just as guests arrive.
My Go-To Prints for Tiny Corners With Big Style
I’ve always had a soft spot for the little spaces. You know the ones - the awkward alcove by the stairs, that skinny bit of wall between two doors, or the quiet nook where you sit with a cuppa and your book. These corners might be small, but they’re perfect for a splash of colour and character.
Over the years, I’ve found a few favourites that never fail to bring big smiles to small spots. Whether you’re after a cheeky face to greet you by the kettle or a calming companion for your bedtime routine, here are the wall art prints I always come back to.
They’re full of joy, full of story, and just the right size for those cosy little corners that deserve a bit of love.
Geoffrey the Cockapoo
He’s cheeky, full of charm, and always up to something. Geoffrey is one of those wall art prints that people stop and smile at - he’s got mischief in his eyes and love in his heart. I’ve seen him pop up in kitchens, above desks, and even by the front door, where he can greet everyone with a bit of cockapoo magic.
Lady Marmalade the Cat
Lady Marmalade doesn’t just sit on a wall; she owns it. Her pet portrait is full of sass, rich colours, and an unapologetic personality. I love her in bold spaces - think bathrooms with brightly tiled floors or even beside your dressing table, where she can supervise your makeup routine.
Agatha the Highland Cow
Yes, she’s a Highland cow with a whole story, but she fits beautifully into smaller spaces too. Her expression, colours, and texture bring such warmth - even a narrow stairwell feels inviting with Agatha keeping watch. And let’s face it, she’s practically royalty in my collection!
Choosing the Right Print Size
Just because your space is small doesn’t mean your wall art needs to be tiny. Sometimes, a larger framed wall art print in a smaller area can feel really intentional and bold. It’s all about scale and placement.
Small prints are brilliant for gallery walls or grouped sets - I often pair a few animals together for a fun little cluster.
Medium prints suit most spaces - great for above the bedside, desks, or bathroom walls.
Large prints in small rooms? Yes, please! As long as you’ve got enough breathing space around them, they can make a striking impact.
Framed Wall Art Prints vs. Framed Canvases — What Works Best?
I get asked this all the time: “Sarah, what should I go for in a smaller room — print or canvas?” And the answer depends on the vibe you want.
Framed prints are a brilliant go-to for flexibility. Lightweight, easy to hang, and available in natural wood, black, or white. They slot in easily, whether it’s a tight hallway or a gallery wall situation.
Framed canvases are a bit more of a statement. The floating frame gives them presence, and the colours really pop. They’re great if you want the space to feel a little more styled and intentional.
How to Style Wall Art Prints in Small Spaces
Here are a few of my favourite tricks for making a big impact without overwhelming a space:
Let it breathe
Even in tight corners, try to give your animal artwork a bit of wall space around it. It helps the piece stand out and feel more special.
Play with shape
Gallery walls don’t have to be straight lines. Use quirky layouts - a little curve around a mirror, or a zig-zag up the stairs.
Layer in accessories
Pair wall art prints with complementary cushions, candles, or planters in similar colours. It helps tie the whole look together without feeling too ‘done.’
Use mirrors to bounce light
A well-placed mirror can make a small room feel bigger and help your wall art shine even more.
Bringing Colour Into Unexpected Places
I love seeing my wall art in places people wouldn’t normally hang it. Why not put a framed Mr Bojangles in your pantry? Or a Bubbles the Cat next to the washing machine to make laundry less dull?
These unexpected placements not only add personality, but they also make your home feel lived-in and joyful. That’s the magic of animal wall art - it brings comfort, cheekiness, and heart to the everyday.
Final Thoughts: Go Big with Heart, Not Size
Small spaces have heart. And when you fill them with animal art that’s full of life, colour, and a good dollop of cheek, your whole home starts to feel more you.
So don’t wait for the “perfect wall.” Start with a little frame, a cheeky cockapoo, or a sassy cat that makes you smile. That’s the beauty of it all - you get to create moments of joy wherever you are, no matter how much space you have. Buy here now.
Big personality? Always. Big wall? Optional.
