The Ultimate Guide to Hanging Artwork in Your Home

When it comes to decorating your home, few elements are as impactful as the art you choose and how you display it. Whether you’re aiming for a gallery-like statement wall or a subtle piece that complements the room’s décor, knowing how and where to hang your artwork is key. Here, we share expert tips and tricks to make your art shine, covering everything from frame sizes to lighting and protection.

1. Consider the Size of the Artwork

Small Frames

  • Best for: Bathrooms, hallways, or spaces above small furniture like a bedside table.

  • Tips: Small frames can look lost on large walls. To avoid this, group them with other small pieces to create a cohesive arrangement.

  • Placement: Hang small art at eye level or just above the feature it’s complementing, such as a shelf or console table. Have you considered just placing them on a shelf?

Mont Blanc du Tacul and Aiguille du Midi photography prints displayed on a desk

Medium Frames

  • Best for: Kitchens, home offices, or as part of a gallery wall.

  • Tips: Medium-sized art offers versatility. Pair them with larger pieces in a cluster or let them stand alone in smaller rooms for balance.

  • Placement: Center medium frames at eye level, approximately 57–60 inches from the floor to the centre of the piece.

Two light frames placed on a sofa with a diptych image of two mountaineers descending on an arête.

Large Frames

  • Best for: Living rooms, dining rooms, or above large furniture like a sofa or bed.

  • Tips: Large frames make a bold statement and can anchor a room. Avoid cluttering the space around them to let them breathe.

  • Placement: Leave at least 6–8 inches between the bottom of the frame and the top of the furniture beneath it.


2. Curating Sets and Collages

Pairs of Two

  • Best for: Flanking mirrors, windows, or furniture for symmetry.

  • Tips: Ensure that the frames and art styles are complementary. Use a consistent frame style or color for cohesion.

  • Placement: Align the top edges of the frames for a polished look.

Groups of Three

  • Best for: Staircases, long walls, or above sectional sofas.

  • Tips: Arrange in a linear or triangular pattern. Vary frame sizes slightly to add interest.

  • Placement: Leave about 2–3 inches of space between each piece for balance
A set of three triptych print hung above a large sofa in a modern living room. Pink landscape photography of the Aiguille du Midi and Mont Blanc at sunset.

Collages and Gallery Walls

  • Best for: Large blank walls in living rooms, hallways, or offices.

  • Tips: Plan your layout by arranging the pieces on the floor before hanging them. Use a mix of frame styles and sizes for an eclectic look or uniform frames for a minimalist vibe.

  • Placement: Keep the central point of the collage at eye level for a harmonious display.



3. Highlight or Blend?

 
Making Art a Highlight
  • Tips: Choose bold, colorful pieces or striking black-and-white prints. Use accent lighting to draw attention.

  • Placement: Position the piece where it will naturally draw the eye, such as above a mantel or at the end of a hallway.


Blending Art into Décor
  • Tips: Opt for subtle, tonal pieces that match your room’s color scheme. Avoid overly ornate frames that might stand out too much.

  • Placement: Hang the art to complement existing furniture or architectural elements without overpowering them.



4. Lighting Your Artwork

Natural Light

  • Tips: Avoid placing art in direct sunlight to prevent fading. UV-protective glass or acrylic can help mitigate damage.

Accent Lighting

  • Best for: Highlighting specific pieces in darker rooms or corners.

  • Tips: Use adjustable picture lights, track lighting, or wall-mounted sconces. Aim the light at a 30-degree angle to minimize glare and shadowing.

General Room Lighting

  • Tips: Ensure the overall room lighting complements your artwork. Warm light can enhance the colors in your pieces, while cool light works well for black-and-white prints.



5. Protecting Your Artwork

Framing

  • Tips: Always frame prints and photographs to protect them from dust and humidity. For valuable pieces, consider using museum-grade materials.

Placement

  • Tips: Avoid hanging art in areas with high humidity, such as bathrooms, unless the piece is specifically treated for moisture resistance.

Cleaning

  • Tips: Dust frames regularly with a soft cloth. Avoid using cleaning products directly on glass or acrylic.



6. Final Touches and General Tips

  • Measure Twice, Hang Once: Use a tape measure and level to ensure precise placement.

  • Test the Layout: Before drilling holes, use painter’s tape to outline your frames on the wall to visualize the arrangement.

  • Balance the Room: Consider the scale and proportion of your artwork relative to the room and furniture.

  • Stay True to Your Style: Art is personal. Choose pieces that resonate with you and reflect your personality.


Hanging artwork doesn’t have to be daunting. With thoughtful planning and these tips, you can transform your home into a curated gallery that’s uniquely yours. Happy decorating!

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