Empty white walls and drop ceilings aren't the most inspiring surroundings. But for many of us, that's the reality of our workplace habitat.
We can't all work in interior decorator designed state-of-the-art LEED certified buildings, unfortunately, but that doesn't mean we can't make the best of it with what's available and a small amount of budget.
Luckily, with a few well-placed frame hangers, velcro tape, or bolts, (or all three), you can transform a drab, dreary office to an oasis that just might inspire your colleagues.
Read on for the best office wall decor available and where to find it:
1. Wall Art
Whether you want to be literal and get your company logo laser cut from metal or wood, or inspiring and feature an image such as the mountain in the image below, your options are limitless.
Image via SplineHomeDecor on Etsy Where to look: Etsy, your local laser cut store (many trophy or art shops offer this service), or Wayfair, Hayneedle, Overstock, or 6pm.com for non-custom pieces
Price range: Generally $50+ depending on the size and material of the piece
Framed Prints
Prints work well for
cubicle walls, your desk, or the empty wall real estate around the office. Choose from quotes, landscapes, portraits of inspiring leaders, or abstract designs (or anything, really). There is no shortage of options for prints. Pro tip: buy from vendors who offer frames for a ready-to-hang package.
Image via PrintableBeautyArt on Etsy Where to look: Etsy, Society6, Saatchi, Minted, Cafepress
Price range: $5 and up, depending on size, material, and whether it's framed/matted
Original Art
If you're working with a larger budget, original art is another way to give your office some color and life. Even if you're limited to neutral tones, you'll find numerous options.
Image via LaBroucke on Etsy Where to find: Etsy, local galleries, coffee shops, Zatista, Fine Art America
Price: $50+, for the most part, oil paint will cost you more than watercolor (artist dependent), and larger paintings will cost more
Clocks
Practical, yes, but clocks can also be a statement. Display the time across your company's global footprint, or use one for a pop of color.
Image via oclasermark on Etsy Where to find: Etsy, Jet, Walmart, Target, Amazon
Price: $30+
Wall Decals (aka Stickers!)
Ideal for temporary offices or coworking spaces, custom wall decals can help brand your space and add personalization when you're limited in what you're allowed to modify in the space.
Where to find: Stickeryou, Etsy your local sticker shop, other online sources
Price: $30+ depending on size and color
2. Shelves
Shelves open up so many options. For instance, you can display your office's lending library, prop up some framed prints, add a few decorative candles, or even store office supplies.
Where to find: Potterybarn, CB2, Wayfair, 6pm, Overstock, big box home improvement stores
Price: $50+
Floating
Limited budget? Head to IKEA, Urban Outfitters, Amazon, or Walmart for budget floating shelves.
Image via Urban Outfitters Where to find: IKEA, Urban Outfitters, Target, Walmart, Amazon
Price: $7+ depending on source, size, and material
3. Mirrors
When you don't want to commit to a piece of art, but still want to add a splash of something to your walls, mirrors do the trick. Try one large one to make a room seem bigger, or a series of small, detailed mirrors for a more eclectic look.
Where to find: At Home, West Elm, Kirkland's, Hayneedle, Wayfair, 6pm
Price: $70+ depending on source, size, and material
A touch of green adds life to your work environment. From living moss walls, to petite wall-mounted container gardens, you'll find an option for every office decor budget.
Where to find: West Elm, Joss&Main, local plant/pottery stores
Price: $20+ depending on source, size, and material
5. Neon Signs
Another way to display your company's name or tagline, neon signs offer customization and a bright pop of pizzazz. Even when not lit, this fun option will give your office space a unique touch.
Image via Brite Lite tribe Where to find: local neon sign shop, Amazon, Etsy, Every Thing Neon, Wayfair,Brite Lite tribe
Price: $70+ depending on source and size, more for custom
6. Tapestries
A perennial college favorite, tapestries offer color and wall coverage for a fraction of the price of framed art. Popular choices include maps and floral designs, but you'll find any kind you want with a quick search (or even a custom print).
Image via Bed Bath & Beyond Where to find: Bed Bath & Beyond, Urban Outfitters, Hayneedle, Wayfair, 6pm
Price: $10+ depending on source, size, and material
7. Chalkboard Paint
Beyond the cool factor of dark, charcoal walls, chalkboard paint can be practical if you want to keep a running list of goals, motivational quotes, or sales quotas within easy reach of your employees. While you can paint over chalkboard paint, it's best to do this in a space where you plan to stay for more than a short while as it does take a few coats to apply (and to later cover up).
Image via It All Started With Paint Where to find: Home Depot, Lowes, Amazon
Price: $10+ depending on quantity
8. Dry Erase Board
Dry erase boards have evolved from the ones you'd find in classrooms around the country. Choose from upscale, glass options for those with the budget, or head to an office supply store for a peel and stick option.
Where to find: Office Depot, Amazon, Staples, Everase, Target
Price: $30+ depending on size and store
9. Murals or Mosaics
Similar to custom decals, you can find peel and stick murals to suit your company's decorating style. For a pricier, more permanent option, consider hiring a local artist for a hand-painted mural or mosaic.
Where to find: Murals Your Way, Eazywallz, Magic Murals
Price: $70+ depending on source, size, and material
--
Nina Semczuk is the Head of SEO Content at Fairygodboss. She loves transforming white wall space into a beautiful mix of colors, books, and ephemera. Ask her about the time she thought chalkboard paint on plywood walls was a fabulously good idea.