How to arrange wall art: a complete guide
Displaying art on your walls can create engaging visual interest, and enhance your space with a sense of identity, and unique visual flair. Many times, it is the final touch that can help tie an interior space together.
Frequently, during 1:1 Consultations or visiting client’s homes, I get asked how to display and hang art, paintings, photos or other personal objects. I know it can be tricky… too much, too high… it’s very subjective, but you know when it looks right. That’s why I created this guide with some tips and principles to help you feel more confident about arranging art in your living space.
1. Artwork can be displayed in a variety of ways, including hanging on walls, on shelves or a mantelpiece, on a piece of furniture or even on the floor leaning against a wall. This creates a casual look, and also allows you to change the arrangements more easily, without putting any nails in the wall.
2. A general rule of thumb, is to hang a singular piece of art 57-60 inches (145-152 cm.) from the ground to the center of the piece, which is average eye level. When stacking or grouping multiple pieces, take into account the total height, including the space you envision between the frames, and center that. So now you are aiming for 57-60 inches from the ground to the center of the group. A good spacing suggestion is 3-6 inches (7-15 cm.) between pieces to maintain a pleasing balance.
3. For artworks hanging above furniture or sofa, you want the art piece or arrangement to span 2/3 of the width of whatever furniture is below. And aim to leave 6-10 inches (15-25 cm.) above the piece of furniture for usable workspace and to protect the art from potential damage. If the art piece is too small, you can “cheat” by adding a table lamp, vase or sculptural piece to balance the visual weight.
4. To mantain a pleasing visual balance in asymmetrical wall arrangements composed of artworks with a mix of different shapes and sizes, make an invisible visual line to keep the weight of the composition equal in both sides of the line. And, align the center of the pieces, instead of bottoms and tops.
5. To build a gallery wall, there are many tips. My favorite approach for beginners is to hang the largest, most prominent pieces first, either in the center or near the bottom of the arrangement, to create a focal point. Then, add smaller pieces, working outward. The arrangement can be expanded over time as your collection grows.
6. Always consider the size, scale, orientation and visual weight of the pieces, as well as the overall design of the room. You want to get the right balance and proportion, and avoid awkward visual breaks. This counts for mirrors too!
If you want to get creative with scale —too small, or too big, or hanging too low, or too high— make it look intentional. The unexpected, can be as interesting as the art itself.
7. Art brings any room to life. Try displaying pieces in unusual places to make a visual statement: in front of a shelving, in the back of cabinetry, and open shelves, in front of a window, in the bathroom, above a doorway.
8. Art doesn’t have to be expensive or feel too permanent. So, forget longevity. Explore unknown artists and forgotten treasures in flea markets, thrift shops, yard sales, auctions, estate sales, Etsy, Facebook Marketplace and more.
9. Mix up the display. Look for unique and memorable pieces — from artwork and drawings, to decorative plates, mirrors, dishes, bowls, masks, baskets, and textiles. Anything can be art! Make it personal. Your home is your canvas.
10. When it comes to art —and everything in your home— personal taste is everything. It's not about following trends or fashion. Be yourself. Use your instincts and choose pieces that evoke emotions and that you connect with. Maybe you are drawn to vintage-inspired pieces, or to modern work, or quote posters. There is no right or wrong. If you love it, you’ll find a place for it.
Hopefully, these guidelines will give you a good foundation to then play around with more unique placements— for you and for the world to see. And, if you want to chat more about styling your own home or project, book a 1:1 Consultation. I would love to help you.
Natalia X
