How High Above Furniture To Hang Art

How High Above Furniture to Hang Art

Hanging artwork above furniture is a common way to add personality and style to a room. However, getting the height right is important for creating a balanced and visually appealing display. Here are some guidelines to help you determine how high to hang art above furniture:

Consider the Size of the Artwork

The size of the artwork should be proportional to the size of the furniture it hangs above. Smaller pieces can be hung lower, while larger pieces may need more space above them. A general rule of thumb is to hang the artwork so that the bottom edge is about two-thirds the distance from the top of the furniture to the ceiling.

Consider the Height of the Furniture

The height of the furniture also plays a role in determining the hanging height. For taller pieces of furniture, such as a sofa or bookcase, the artwork can be hung higher. For lower pieces of furniture, such as a coffee table, the artwork should be hung lower. In general, the artwork should be at eye level when you are seated on or standing in front of the furniture.

Consider the Type of Furniture

The type of furniture can also influence the hanging height. For example, artwork hung above a bed should be lower than artwork hung above a sofa. This is because beds are typically lower than sofas, and you want the artwork to be visible when you are lying down in bed. Similarly, artwork hung above a console table should be higher than artwork hung above a coffee table. This is because console tables are typically taller than coffee tables.

Consider the Style of the Room

The style of the room can also affect the hanging height. For example, in a formal living room, the artwork should be hung higher, while in a casual family room, the artwork can be hung lower. In a room with high ceilings, the artwork can be hung higher, while in a room with low ceilings, the artwork should be hung lower.

Use a Measuring Tape or Level

Once you have considered all of these factors, use a measuring tape or level to mark the spot where you want to hang the artwork. It is helpful to use a pencil to mark the spot so that you can easily see it when you are hanging the artwork. Once you have marked the spot, you can hang the artwork using a nail or hook.

Additional Tips

Here are some additional tips for hanging artwork above furniture:

Use a variety of hanging heights to create a more dynamic and interesting display.
Hang artwork in groups to create a focal point in the room.
Use frames to complement the artwork and the style of the room.
Don't be afraid to experiment until you find the perfect hanging height for your artwork.