Wall art has the power to elevate your space, adding personality, warmth, and style. However, even the most beautiful artwork can lose its impact if it’s placed incorrectly. Many homeowners make common mistakes when hanging their art, unintentionally diminishing the aesthetic appeal of their space. In this blog, we’ll highlight some of the most frequent wall art placement mistakes and how to avoid them, ensuring your artwork becomes a stunning focal point in your home.
Hanging Art Too High
One of the most common mistakes people make is hanging their artwork too high on the wall. When art is positioned too far above eye level, it can create a sense of imbalance in the room, making the space feel disconnected. As a general rule, art should be hung at eye level, which typically means the center of the piece is around 57-60 inches from the floor.
If you’re hanging art above furniture, such as a sofa or console table, leave about 6-12 inches between the top of the furniture and the bottom of the art. This ensures the artwork is visually connected to the rest of the room and doesn’t feel out of place.
Choosing the Wrong Size for the Space
Another common issue is selecting art that is either too small or too large for the wall or space. A tiny piece of art on a large, blank wall can look lost, while an oversized piece in a small room can overwhelm the space. The key is to ensure that your wall art is proportional to the surrounding area.
For large walls, consider using oversized art or creating a gallery wall with multiple pieces to fill the space effectively. In smaller rooms or on narrow walls, choose medium or smaller art that complements rather than dominates the room. When hanging art above furniture, a good rule of thumb is that the art should be about two-thirds the width of the furniture beneath it for balanced proportions.
Ignoring the Room’s Overall Design
It’s easy to fall in love with a piece of art and immediately want to hang it up, but it’s important to consider the overall design and style of the room before deciding where it should go. Your wall art should complement the décor, color scheme, and mood of the space.
For example, bold, colorful abstract art may feel out of place in a calm, minimalist room designed with neutral tones. Likewise, delicate, understated pieces may not stand out in rooms filled with vibrant patterns and textures. When choosing the placement of your artwork, think about how it will fit into the existing design and ensure it enhances the room rather than clashing with it.
Overcrowding Walls with Too Much Art
While gallery walls are a popular trend, overcrowding your walls with too much art can create visual chaos and make a room feel cluttered. It's essential to leave enough negative space around your artwork to let each piece breathe and stand out.
When creating a gallery wall, be mindful of spacing. Each piece should have at least a few inches of space around it, allowing the individual artworks to shine while still contributing to the collective impact of the gallery. In smaller rooms, avoid covering every wall with art; instead, focus on one or two key areas where your art can make the most impact without overwhelming the room.
Not Using the Right Frame
The frame you choose for your artwork can either enhance its beauty or detract from it. Many people overlook the importance of the frame, opting for generic or ill-fitting frames that don’t match the art or the room’s décor.
A frame should complement the style of the artwork as well as the room. For instance, sleek metal or simple black frames work well in modern and minimalist interiors, while ornate, gilded frames are better suited to traditional or classic settings. Additionally, the size of the frame should be proportional to the art—too large, and it might overshadow the artwork; too small, and it might look incomplete.
Failing to Consider Lighting
Lighting is often an afterthought when it comes to displaying wall art, but it plays a critical role in how the art is perceived. Insufficient lighting can cause art to blend into the background, while harsh lighting can create glare and diminish its appeal.
For spaces with low lighting, consider installing picture lights, spotlights, or track lighting to highlight your art. Natural light can also be a great way to showcase your art during the day, but be cautious of placing valuable or sensitive pieces in direct sunlight, as this can cause fading or damage over time.
Not Planning the Arrangement
Whether you’re hanging a single piece or creating a gallery wall, planning the arrangement is essential to avoid mistakes. Many people make the mistake of hanging art impulsively, resulting in crooked pieces, uneven spacing, or an awkward layout.
Before hanging, take the time to measure your space and plan your arrangement. For gallery walls, lay the pieces out on the floor first to see how they’ll look together. Use painter’s tape to mark where each piece will go on the wall, and adjust as necessary until the arrangement feels balanced and cohesive.
Overlooking the Functionality of the Room
Finally, it’s important to consider the function of the room when deciding on the type and placement of art. For example, a serene landscape might be ideal for a bedroom or bathroom, where you want to create a relaxing atmosphere. In contrast, a dynamic, colorful piece would be better suited to a living room or home office where energy and creativity are encouraged.
Additionally, keep practicality in mind when placing art in high-traffic areas or above furniture. Ensure that it’s securely hung to prevent accidents and that it won’t be easily bumped or knocked off the wall.
Avoiding these common mistakes when placing wall art can make a significant difference in the overall look and feel of your home. From considering the right height and scale to ensuring proper lighting and frame choices, thoughtful placement allows your artwork to shine and enhance your space. By taking the time to plan and avoid overcrowding, you can create a harmonious, visually appealing environment that showcases your art to its fullest potential.
With the right approach, your wall art will not only complement your décor but also bring personality, warmth, and style to every room in your home.
