When it comes to interior design, one of the elements that can bring character and life to a room is wall art. From unique abstract pieces to family portraits, wall decor comes in an array of sizes and forms. It is crucial to hang wall art at the appropriate height to ensure it harmonizes with the rest of your decor and complements your space. Let's delve into the realm of wall art placement and unlock the optimal height for hanging wall art.
The "At Eye Level" Rule
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The golden rule for hanging wall art is to place the center of the piece at eye level, approximately 57 to 60 inches from the floor. This rule, popularized by museums and art galleries, offers a starting point for wall art placement. However, it's essential to remember that this guideline is an average and assumes that the average eye level is 57-60 inches, which might not be the case for everyone. Depending on who will be predominantly using the space and their height, you might need to adjust the height slightly.
When to Break the "Eye Level" Rule
While the eye level rule can be an excellent general guideline, there are scenarios where it makes sense to break it. For instance:
1. Over Furniture and Mantels: When hanging wall art over furniture like a sofa, desk, or mantle, the bottom edge of the frame should be 6-8 inches above the top of the furniture. This helps to visually connect the art with the furniture and avoid the art piece seeming as if it's floating.
2. Large Wall Art Pieces: Large pieces of wall art can be a statement in any room. When hanging these, you may need to hang them a little lower than the eye level rule suggests. In this case, use your judgement and consider the scale and proportion of the room.
3. Gallery Walls: When creating a gallery wall, you should consider the entire collection of art as one large piece and then use the eye level rule.
4. Rooms with High Ceilings: If you're lucky enough to have rooms with high ceilings, consider the vertical space you have. The eye level rule might result in your wall art being lost amidst the wall space. Therefore, hanging your art a bit higher might work better.
5. Staircase and Hallways: In places like staircases or hallways where people are often moving, it might make more sense to align your artwork with the stair incline or hang it a bit lower to be enjoyed while passing by.
Aesthetics Matter: Balancing Art and Decor
Abstract Mountain Canvas Wall Art
Just as important as the height at which wall art is hung, is how well it's integrated with the rest of the decor. The most aesthetically pleasing rooms are those where everything feels balanced. Here are a few tips to achieve that harmony:
1. Size Matters: Make sure the art you select is proportionate to the wall space and furniture around it. A small piece can get lost on a large wall, while a large piece can overwhelm a small wall.
2. Create a Focal Point: Wall art can be an excellent focal point in a room. If your piece is colorful or bold, hang it on a wall where it can stand alone and shine.
3. Grouping Artwork: When grouping artwork, maintain at least 3-6 inches between each piece to allow each one to be appreciated while still creating a cohesive look.
4. Mixing Styles: Don't be afraid to mix different styles of art. This can add interest and character to a space. Just make sure they have something in common like color, theme, or frame style to keep the look cohesive.
5. Experiment with Placement: Before you start hammering nails into the wall, experiment with the placement. You can lay your pieces on the floor or use painter's tape to create an outline on the wall.
Personalized Signs and Wall Decor
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Personalized signs and wall decor can add a touch of personality and make a space truly unique. Whether it's a sign with a family name, a favorite quote, or a custom design, personalized wall decor should also follow the same principles of balance, proportion, and eye-level consideration. These pieces often hold sentimental value and therefore deserve a prominent place in the home where they can be seen and appreciated.
In conclusion, there's indeed an art to hanging wall art. The 'eye level' rule offers a good starting point, but don't be afraid to trust your instincts and play around with placement until it feels right. After all, your home is your personal space, and your decor should reflect that.
To help create your perfect space, consider the vast selection of wall art, wall decor, and personalized signs available from companies like Tailored Canvases. Remember, every room is a canvas – happy decorating!
