Word Up: The Writing's on the Wall
Inspiring wall quotes that are cool and creative, and sometimes cheesy...
Inspiring words or quotes have the power to instil happiness, motivate or urge you to remember the important things in life. Yes, we’ll admit a few of them are cheesy, but when done in a creative way with great design, they can be a standout feature in your home.
The key is choosing what room to display your quote in, and carefully selecting a word or phrase that is really, truly meaningful for you or your family. This is not the time to go out and buy a word or phrase from a homewares shop that fails to resonate with you, simply because it’s a ‘trendy’ thing to put in your home. Instead, research your favourite writers or search online for sentences that connect with you on an emotional level. Because only then will it have the desired effect when finally displayed.
As a starting point, think about what atmosphere or energy you want to evoke. For example, playful and energetic, calming and comforting, or renewed and optimistic. Here are a few examples to take cue from. We’ve broken them up into different spaces within the home so you can start thinking about which wall (or surface) you want as your canvas. But remember, resist the urge to completely copy what is shown here. Originality is so much more inspiring than imitation.
The key is choosing what room to display your quote in, and carefully selecting a word or phrase that is really, truly meaningful for you or your family. This is not the time to go out and buy a word or phrase from a homewares shop that fails to resonate with you, simply because it’s a ‘trendy’ thing to put in your home. Instead, research your favourite writers or search online for sentences that connect with you on an emotional level. Because only then will it have the desired effect when finally displayed.
As a starting point, think about what atmosphere or energy you want to evoke. For example, playful and energetic, calming and comforting, or renewed and optimistic. Here are a few examples to take cue from. We’ve broken them up into different spaces within the home so you can start thinking about which wall (or surface) you want as your canvas. But remember, resist the urge to completely copy what is shown here. Originality is so much more inspiring than imitation.
Up a flight of stairs
This is such a cool concept given the eye travels up as you ascend the stairs. It is such a novel way for a family to communicate their values.
This is such a cool concept given the eye travels up as you ascend the stairs. It is such a novel way for a family to communicate their values.
In a kid’s room
Displaying a phrase or two is a great way to get your little one’s imagination cracking or plant the seed for some greater life lessons.
Displaying a phrase or two is a great way to get your little one’s imagination cracking or plant the seed for some greater life lessons.
If you’re planning on using wall decals, have a go at combining pictures with text. You can create one beautiful, flowing shape such as the extended branch seen here.
Above a bedhead
This is one of the more predictable locations for an inspiring wall quote. But that doesn’t mean the text should be predictable. Instead of opting for the standard ‘dream’, ‘relax’ or ‘sleep’, come up with something deeper, then commission an artist to make a one-off piece for you.
This is one of the more predictable locations for an inspiring wall quote. But that doesn’t mean the text should be predictable. Instead of opting for the standard ‘dream’, ‘relax’ or ‘sleep’, come up with something deeper, then commission an artist to make a one-off piece for you.
Alternatively, do a bit of DIY. Choose a phrase and get it printed onto a large canvas. And play around with colour to highlight specific words. I love how there is special emphasis on the word ‘new’ here thanks to eye-catching fuchsia.
BONUS TIP: Can’t think of anything off the top of your head? Try sifting through the lyrics of your favourite songs.
BONUS TIP: Can’t think of anything off the top of your head? Try sifting through the lyrics of your favourite songs.
In the stairwell
This is a great space to display inspiring words in the form of hanging art. It’s also worth thinking about what different colours symbolise as well. I adore how the feature wall is red – a shade traditionally used to symbolise passion, emotion and energy (and ties in with the concept of love). A hue can easily reinforce your message on a subconscious level.
This is a great space to display inspiring words in the form of hanging art. It’s also worth thinking about what different colours symbolise as well. I adore how the feature wall is red – a shade traditionally used to symbolise passion, emotion and energy (and ties in with the concept of love). A hue can easily reinforce your message on a subconscious level.
In the kitchen
The owners have gone big and bold with a whole wall dedicated to this quirky, original quote. It may look like the words are drawn on with chalk, but this effect is most likely painted on by a specialist chalkboard artist.
The owners have gone big and bold with a whole wall dedicated to this quirky, original quote. It may look like the words are drawn on with chalk, but this effect is most likely painted on by a specialist chalkboard artist.
If you don’t have a whole spare wall, think of other vacant spaces that can be used to house inspiring words and quotes. This recess skylight is a great example and exhibits carefully chosen verbs that stimulate action and creativity in the kitchen. And it’s not so high up it that can’t be read.
In the living room
This is a communal space, so consult other members of the family before deciding on a phrase to display. If in doubt, go classic like this ‘home, sweet home’. Yes, it may be slightly cliché, but it becomes less so when it’s created using bold, colourful and mismatched letters.
This is a communal space, so consult other members of the family before deciding on a phrase to display. If in doubt, go classic like this ‘home, sweet home’. Yes, it may be slightly cliché, but it becomes less so when it’s created using bold, colourful and mismatched letters.
Outdoors
An inspiring quote can easily be created (and displayed) on the exterior of a home. These lovely words were placed onto a sign for a balcony using vinyl decals. If you have a garden, look for canvases, such as a gorgeous vintage wooden signpost, you can insert between flowerbeds or plants.
An inspiring quote can easily be created (and displayed) on the exterior of a home. These lovely words were placed onto a sign for a balcony using vinyl decals. If you have a garden, look for canvases, such as a gorgeous vintage wooden signpost, you can insert between flowerbeds or plants.
In a study
This is probably my favourite place to display an inspiring quote because it’s a room where creativity thrives (especially if you work from home). While this isn’t technically a wall quote, I love the humour of this artwork that is hung on the wall.
This is probably my favourite place to display an inspiring quote because it’s a room where creativity thrives (especially if you work from home). While this isn’t technically a wall quote, I love the humour of this artwork that is hung on the wall.
Another great example. This monosyllabic word packs a powerful punch (and no doubt reminds the person who works there to push the boundaries and be awesome every single day).
In a foyer
These words echo the warm, inviting sentiment as previously seen on the stairs. However, take note of the different treatment and careful editing of quotes. What a lovely way for guests to be welcomed into this home.
These words echo the warm, inviting sentiment as previously seen on the stairs. However, take note of the different treatment and careful editing of quotes. What a lovely way for guests to be welcomed into this home.
What a way to transform a usually blank space! Imagine the positive energy the owner experiences each morning after walking through this mural and out into the world to face the day.