Finding the Perfect Fit: How to Choose the Right Size Artwork for Your Wall
Choosing the size and placement is essential to the harmony of any art display, but it can be daunting to decide what’s right.
I also know that framing can be a pain and costly, so I aim to make most of my artwork in standard frame sizes, no custom ordering required.
Read on for some general rules-of-thumb for size selection and placement of artwork in your space.
Living Spaces
Sofa-worthy style
Here's the 411: Go for a canvas that's 1/2 to 2/3 the width of your couch and get ready to serve some balanced and eye-candy realness! The number of throw pillows you use, however, is subjective and has spurred more than one Seinfeld-esque debate between me and my bf.
Got a basic 3-seat sofa? Werk it with a canvas between 42 to 60 inches wide.
Rocking a massive sectional sofa? Go big or go home with a canvas spanning 60 to 84 inches wide.
Keeping it cozy with a small loveseat? Keep it cute with a canvas that's 24 to 36 inches wide for those hygge feels.
You say hang, I say how high?
Elevate your decor game with this golden rule: The base of your canvas should rest 8-10 inches above your the top of your furniture. This strategic placement guarantees seamless visibility and maximum enjoyment of the artwork.
In Your Bedroom
Above a Bed
A large piece should be slightly smaller in width than your bed frame, and centered for harmony.
Tip: Dream about the visual vibe you're aiming for. Need a head-turning showstopper? Go for the gusto with a larger canvas that grabs attention and steals the spotlight. Craving a cozy collective feel? A smaller canvas could be the star of your gallery wall, mingling seamlessly with other decor delights.
Smaller Spaces
A few more examples of artwork in a bedroom to inspire you!
In the Bathroom
Once again, choose proportionality as your guide, matching the canvas dimensions to your wall and bathroom elements. For larger walls, go big with an oversized canvas to establish a captivating visual centerpiece. Conversely, smaller walls or snug spaces call for smaller canvases or a collection of petite artworks (8x10-11x14), offering a chic and efficient design solution.
In the splash zone near the shower or sink, keep your masterpiece dry by maintaining a safe distance between the artwork and potential water sprays.
As the Main Event
Filling walls that are empty head to toe: Nail that art display by hanging it at eye level. Opt for a size that's 50-60% of your wall's smaller dimension – width or height. Leave a cool 25% of wall space on the opposite side of the canvas for that balanced touch.
In the Kitchen
Remember to place your artwork strategically away from your stove or sink, to save it from grease and water splatters!
Office Spaces
I love to place a few inspiring pieces very near my work space for optimal inspiration and chance of daydreaming!
Do What You Want!
When it comes to making art and displaying it, it’s great to know the ‘rules’ if only to break them. I’m big believer in the ‘do what feels good’ method of adorning your space.
That being said, I’m always happy to provide my 2 cents when it comes to artwork size and selection. If you would like to see a free custom mockup of artwork in your space or have any additional questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me!
