Art has an incredible ability to transform a space, taking it from ordinary to extraordinary in a mere matter of moments. Wall art, particularly, can become a focal point, capturing attention and evoking emotions. It can stimulate conversations, provide solace, or ignite a spark of creativity. Yet, one of the most common dilemmas that art enthusiasts face is determining where to hang their art. So, whether you're a beginner trying to find the perfect spot for your first piece of wall décor or a seasoned collector seeking to diversify your displays, this blog post is for you.
Understand Your Space
Before you start hanging your wall art, it's crucial to understand your space. This includes the overall layout, wall size, existing décor, and the amount of natural light. Your walls are a canvas ready for you to create your masterpiece, but they must not be overloaded.
Take a step back and observe your space. Is there a wall that's too bare or one that's cluttered with décor? Is there a balance between your furniture and the blank wall space? How does the sunlight filter into the room? By understanding your space, you can better envision where to place your wall art.
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Main Rooms
Living Room: The living room is often the most public space in your home, and therefore a prime location for displaying wall art. A common spot is above the sofa, but ensure the art piece is not wider than the sofa itself. Ideally, it should be about two-thirds the sofa's length.
Dining Room: A dining room can be uplifted with the right wall art. It can stimulate conversation and enhance the dining experience. Consider placing art on the wall opposite the entrance for an immediate impression or above a sideboard for a subtler touch.
Bedroom: In bedrooms, the area above the headboard is a favorite spot for wall art. The art piece here should create a sense of tranquility and peace. It's essential that the size of the art matches the size of the bed—a king bed requires larger art than a twin bed, for instance.
Kitchen: Who said kitchens can't have wall art? The space above cabinets or on an empty wall can serve as great spots. Think smaller pieces that add a bit of charm without overwhelming the room.
Bathroom: The bathroom might not be the first place that comes to mind for hanging art, but it's a space where you can get creative. Think about placing small, humidity-resistant art pieces above the toilet or towel rack.
Home Office: The home office requires careful consideration when it comes to wall art. While it should inspire creativity, it shouldn't distract. A large piece of art behind your desk or smaller, organized pieces on the opposite wall can do the trick.
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The Rule of Thirds
An essential principle of design and photography, the rule of thirds, can help guide where to hang wall art. Imagine your wall space divided into a 3x3 grid. Ideally, the focal point of your art piece should be at one of the intersections of this grid, which naturally draws the viewer's eye.
The Magic of Grouping
Grouping various pieces of art can create a stunning gallery wall. Groupings can be a mix of photographs, paintings, or personalized signs. The key to a successful grouping is balance—balancing sizes, styles, and colors to create a harmonious display.
Consider the Viewer’s Height
Wall art should be hung at the average person's eye level, roughly 57 to 60 inches from the floor. Of course, if you're placing art above furniture, you'll need to adjust accordingly. Always leave 6-8 inches between the bottom of the art and the top of the furniture.
Try Different Orientations
Playing around with orientations—portrait, landscape, or square—can add interest to your space. Similarly, the arrangement of the art itself can vary; it can be symmetrical, asymmetrical, in a grid, or a more organic, free-flowing arrangement.
While the world of wall art may seem vast and daunting, remember that the most important aspect is that it should resonate with you. Art is a reflection of who you are and what you love. It's a journey, a story, and each piece holds a memory or a meaning.
On your journey through the world of art, consider adding unique wall décor and personalized signs from Tailored Canvases. They offer a wide array of art selections that can suit any aesthetic or style, elevating your interiors with a personal touch. Their beautifully crafted pieces can be the ideal addition to your art collection, filling your space with creativity, color, and conversation.
