Gone are the days when a map was just an educational or navigational tool. Today, people all over the world use these beautiful, functional, and aesthetically appealing pieces to decorate a dull blank wall, spark conversations, and transform the room into a haven for wanderlust. Whether you select a cute US map or a vintage illustration of the Old World, a touch of sophistication is guaranteed! You are welcome to peruse a brief guide on how to choose the best atlas specifically for your home.

What’s Your Style?

First, consider where you would like to place this décor. Are you trying to find a finishing touch for your study room? Or, perhaps, you would like to create a bold statement in a living room? If you own a large setting, pick a huge, detailed atlas that also becomes a focal point. In this case, an illustration of a continent or a world would work best. In small spaces, smaller maps, or series of maps, work best. 

Choose minimalist or vintage options to add more charm to your space without overwhelming it. Consider your home’s style. If it’s a minimalist modern room, select contemporary maps. A rustic or traditional home will 100% welcome the antique-style décor.

Choose the type of decor.

There’s a variety of options with different materials, levels of detail, and perspectives. World atlases are an excellent choice for homeowners who enjoy global travel. Country or regional plans will suit those who have left their hearts in a particular region or country. Topographical maps, in turn, demonstrate the physical features of this or that region, so nature lovers don’t miss an opportunity to add it to your interior! The reproduction of old maps, typically crafted in unique cartographic styles, will delight history geeks.

Choose the material.

The material and finish of the atlas will impact both the item’s aesthetic appeal and durability. The most popular options are canvas, paper, wooden, and magnetic. Paper is the most affordable material. Printed on canvas, these items add an artistic feel to the room and do not require framing. Wooden products have a natural and rustic look. Plus, they’re long-lasting and eco-friendly. Finally, magnetic maps are perfect for interactive use and allow you to mark places you’ve visited or are about to set off to.

Choose a color.

Take into account the existing palette of your room when choosing the color of your décor. If it’s a subtle color scheme, pick an atlas with neutral, muted tones. For a bold interior, we recommend an item that either contrasts or complements the hues that are dominant in a room. A black-and-white map usually becomes a striking contrast, while a piece featuring bright colors turns into a source of vibrancy. Finally, vintage décor will look exceptionally appealing in a vintage-themed space. Rich browns and sepia tones rock. 

What’s the purpose?

Why exactly would you like to put this kind of décor on the wall? Is there an educational purpose? If yes, pick one with loads of details, like capitals, political boundaries, and other geographical features. If you seek additional adornment for your room and nothing else, aesthetics will go first. Simply select what complements your interior in the best way possible. Finally, for interactive use, we recommend a pinboard, scratch-off, or magnetic map to track your routes and mark-to-visit locations.