Finding the right solution to make a blank wall sing can be tricky: large paintings are often expensive and gallery walls or knick knack-filled shelving systems can take months to collect and put together. Murals, on the other hand, are a relatively wallet-friendly fix, and they only require a few cans of paint. Chances are you can tackle the work on your own whether you’re a creative spirit or 100 percent left-brained. But where do you start?

Janie Rochfort, the talented artist and interior designer behind the brand-new mural at Semihandmade HQ in Monrovia, California had a few thoughts after finishing her latest project: “I used the brand colors as my starting point, but I was really inspired by the surrounding landscape,” she says. “The beautiful foothills sit right outside the building and the sunsets are just gorgeous. I wanted it to blend in with the scenery.” 

This approach highlights Rochfort’s number one advice for mural design: always consider the landscape. “I want a mural to feel like it belongs in a space; like it’s always been there.” Using existing greenery or textiles as a starting point, the artist looks to complement, rather than compete, with the rest of the space. 

Rochfort’s advice is personified in nearly every one of her creations. From coworking spaces and cafes to offices and wedding venues, her installations flow right into the existing nature or architecture. “It all depends on the focal point of the project,” says Rochfort. ”Sometimes it’s the color palette, sometimes it’s the architecture. But there’s so much overlap between the artwork, branding, and interior design. By the end of the project, it all becomes one cohesive piece.”  

To apply Rochfort’s advice at home, consider your existing space: When was your house built and what’s the overarching design style? Look to art from that period for inspiration. How does natural light affect the room and what colors dominate? Incorporate them in some way. How busy is the existing decor and what mood are you trying to convey? Consider this when deciding how busy your pattern should be. The answers to these questions will help come up with a design that feels right for the space and enhances it rather than detracting from it. 

If painting your own DIY mural still feels intimidating, brands like Minted, Etsy, and Society6 sell removable wall murals in every color, motif, and size imaginable, from dreamy watercolors fit for a relaxing bedroom to productivity-enhancing pop art for a home office.