Wall art plays an important role in defining the character of a space. Beyond simply filling bare walls, it brings depth and adds uniqueness to your interiors. While decorating the wall, decisions like how to hang pictures, paintings, or mural art can feel overwhelming.
However, when thoughtfully chosen and strategically placed, artwork can tie a room together and even influence the overall atmosphere of the space. This blog will guide you through the process and make sure your wall art leaves a long-lasting visual impact.
Identify the Right Place to Hang Wall Art
Knowing exactly where to hang your wall art is just as important as choosing the right piece. Art that is hung too high or low can feel out of place in the room and affect the aesthetics.
Start With the right Wall
Large walls need to be filled appropriately. A small piece on a big, empty wall can feel out of place; therefore, go bold with one large artwork to make a statement. On the other hand, smaller spaces like the areas between windows or doors are perfect for petite pieces. They can be either individual pieces or arranged in groups.
Hanging is not the only option. Framed pieces and canvases can be propped up on mantels or floating shelves. This creates a more relaxed look while allowing you to rearrange the artwork.
Aim for Eye Level
A simple rule is to hang the center of the artwork at eye level, which is about 57 inches (145 cm) from the floor. For gallery walls layout or grouped pieces, treat the entire arrangement as a single unit and hang the center of the group at the same height.
Leave Space Above Furniture
When hanging art above a sofa, bed, or table, leave about 6 to 8 inches (15-20 cm) between the bottom of the frame and the top of the furniture. The artwork (or grouping) should fill about ⅔ to ¾ of the wall space above the furniture for balanced proportions. If you are going for a bolder look, consider filling 95% of the horizontal space.
Plan Before You Hang
Before making any holes in your walls, use painter's tape or stencils to visualize the layout. Use hardware suited to your wall type (drywall, brick, etc) for secure hanging. For heavier artworks, make sure to use wall anchors or hang them directly on a stud to keep them safely in place.
Also, consider laying out the artworks on the floor before hanging. This will give you a clear view of spacing and arrangement before committing.
Make a Statement With a Large Piece
A generous stretch of wall can be ideal for a large, stand-alone artwork. A single oversized piece can instantly command attention, set the tone of the room, and act as a striking focal point. Popular spots for oversized pieces include:
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Over a sofa
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Above a mantel
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Over a bed
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In a large hallway
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In a dining room
When choosing an artpiece, consider the shape of the wall space. A landscape-shaped artwork works best for wide surfaces like above sofas or beds, whereas a portrait-shaped piece suits narrower vertical spaces!
Hang Artwork in Pairs for a Balanced Look
Hanging art in pairs is a simple yet effective way to create a balanced and sophisticated feel in any room. It works well above a couch, adding symmetry to the space. Many artists offer series or collections of artwork, so choosing two works from the same set is a great way to achieve harmony. You can also pair different artworks of similar color palettes or themes. For narrow wall spaces, hang them vertically, whereas for wider areas, arrange them side by side.
Hang Artwork in Trio for Visual Harmony
Arranging artwork in groups of three is a timeless design technique! Our eyes naturally respond well to groups of three because we think in patterns. In fact, three is the lowest pattern-making number. There are a few simple ways to hang art in threes:
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Horizontal Row: Three pieces of equal size can be hung side by side to span a wide area. They are perfect above a sofa, in a long hallway, or over a buffet.
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Vertical Stack: For tall and narrow walls, stack three artworks vertically. Just remember to treat the trio as a single unit, with the centerpiece positioned at eye level.
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Mixed Sizes: For a more comprehensive look, combine one large artwork with two smaller ones. For example, place a tall piece on one side and stack two smaller horizontal ones beside it.
Create Grid Pattern for Calm Look
If the gallery wall feels too chaotic due to flaws in its arrangement, a grid pattern might be the perfect alternative! Its symmetry brings a sense of order and calmness, making it ideal for formal spaces like living rooms or hallways. For best results, use matching frames and mounts, and stick to artwork from the same collection for a polished finish. Keep 3 to 4 inches of spacing between frames for a cohesive look.
Create a Gallery Wall for a Fuller Look
For those who love a maximalist or evolving aesthetic, a classic gallery wall is the way to go. You don't need an entire blank wall to make an impact. Floor-to-ceiling arrangements work beautifully if you have the space. If not, try creating a smaller one above your sofa or get creative by using the wall space along the stairs.
For smaller collections, people often start with their largest piece, either off-center or at a corner. Situating it off-center helps the eye travel around the gallery wall, instead of placing focus straight in the middle of it. However, for larger collections, placing the largest piece towards the middle can create an impact!
Creative Gallery Wall Layouts
The Diamond: This can start with two larger pieces in the center, one above the other. Then build outward, adding vertical columns on either side. Don't worry if the frames are of different sizes, because varied sizes can make it more interesting. Try balancing a tall piece on one side with a smaller piece stacked above a square one on the other. You can add columns further left and right, finishing with a tiny piece like a full stop. This works best when hanging above furniture like a sofa or sideboard.
The Rectangle: This is a great fit when you want a tailored look that mirrors the shape of your furniture. Start by building two vertical columns. Then use a larger piece to bridge them, breaking up the verticals. It requires only a few connections between the pieces to give it a theme. Even if pieces are smaller, a clearly outlined rectangle can feel complete.
The Oval: This is ideal for tall and narrow spaces like hallways, making optimum use of the height. Begin with a strong vertical "spine" and build around it, creating a soft oval shape. Hang art from just above the floor to near the ceiling. Use horizontal alignments sparingly to keep the shape organic.
Conclusion
No matter which layout you choose, framing and thematic cohesion can tie everything together. Whether working with a gallery wall or a single bold piece, it's worth taking the time to plan and experiment with the arrangement. With the right placement, your walls can truly reflect your style and transform the place.
