When it comes to decorating your home or office, wall art has the power to completely transform your interiors. But with so many options available — from canvas prints to metal wall art, glass prints, and classic posters — how do you decide which one suits your style, space, and budget?
In this guide, we’ll compare the most popular wall art formats in Australia, looking at their durability, cost, aesthetic appeal, and typical use-cases. If you’ve been searching for the best print type for kitchen or office wall art, or wondering how canvas vs poster vs metal art Australia compares — this article is for you.
Canvas Prints
Durability:
Canvas prints are a reliable and long-lasting choice for Australian homes. Made with UV-resistant inks and stretched over sturdy timber frames, canvas wall art is resistant to fading and wear.
Cost:
Canvas sits in the mid-range — more affordable than glass or metal wall art but longer lasting than standard posters. Ideal for homeowners seeking style on a sensible budget.
Aesthetic:
Canvas offers a textured, painterly quality that gives your space a warm, inviting feel. It’s perfect for landscapes, abstract art, family portraits, or Australian coastal scenes.
Best Use-Cases:
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Living rooms
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Bedrooms
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Hallways
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Office reception areas
Metal Prints
Durability:
Metal prints are among the most durable wall art formats available today. Made from aluminium panels, they’re waterproof, UV-resistant, scratch-proof, and ideal for high-traffic areas.
Cost:
As a premium product, metal wall art typically comes at a higher price point than canvas or poster prints but delivers unmatched longevity and vibrant colour reproduction.
Aesthetic:
With bold, crisp colours and modern finishes like gloss, satin, or brushed, metal prints are a sleek, contemporary choice. Perfect for photography, abstract designs, and minimalist interiors.
Best Use-Cases:
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Kitchens (moisture and heat-resistant)
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Bathrooms
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Outdoor alfresco areas
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Contemporary office spaces
Glass Prints
Durability:
Glass wall art is sturdy, elegant, and highly polished, but it does require careful placement to avoid accidental damage. It performs well in protected indoor areas.
Cost:
Similar in price to metal prints, glass prints lean toward the premium end, especially in larger, custom sizes.
Aesthetic:
Known for high-definition clarity and a glossy, modern finish, glass prints make colours pop and offer a luxurious look. They’re ideal for large statement pieces and photographic artwork.
Best Use-Cases:
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Feature walls in living areas
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Boardrooms
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Home offices
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Café and boutique interiors
Poster Prints
Durability:
Posters are lightweight, easy to change, and budget-friendly. Though not as long-lasting as canvas or metal wall art, they’re perfect for renters or seasonal styling.
Cost:
Posters are the most affordable wall art option, with a huge range of designs from vintage travel prints to modern typographic art.
Aesthetic:
Ideal for casual spaces, posters can be framed for a polished look or pinned directly to the wall for a laid-back style.
Best Use-Cases:
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Kids’ bedrooms
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Dorm rooms
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Game rooms
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Temporary displays
Which Format Should You Choose?
| Format | Durability | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canvas | High | Mid-range | Home décor, photo art, gallery walls |
| Metal | Very High | Premium | Kitchens, outdoor areas, contemporary offices |
| Glass | High | Premium | Feature pieces, home offices, boardrooms |
| Poster | Low-Medium | Budget | Kids’ rooms, seasonal décor, casual spaces |
Final Thoughts
Choosing between canvas, metal, glass, or poster wall art depends on your space, personal taste, and budget. If you’re after a warm, textured look for your home, canvas prints are an excellent option. If you prefer a bold, sleek finish, metal prints work beautifully in kitchens or contemporary offices. Glass wall art delivers a luxurious, high-definition finish, while posters are perfect for casual, affordable styling.
