How to Hang and Display Art at Home: Placement, Scale & Style

Hanging a piece of art is one of the simplest ways to transform a room — but placement matters more than most people realise. This guide covers the essentials: where to hang, how high, and how to choose works that suit the space.

The Golden Rule: Eye Level

The standard recommendation for hanging art is to centre it at approximately 140–150cm from the floor — roughly eye level for an average-height adult standing up. In practice, this means the midpoint of the work sits at that height, not the top.

In rooms where you're usually seated (a dining room, a living room with a sofa), lower by 10–15cm so the work reads at seated eye level.

Scale: Match the Work to the Wall

A common mistake is choosing a work that's too small for the space. The general rule: the work should occupy roughly 60–75% of the wall width above a piece of furniture. A small work on a large wall looks like a postage stamp — even if it's beautiful.

If you can't find one work large enough, consider a horizontal grouping of two or three pieces at the same height.

Room-by-Room Guide

Living Room

The living room can carry the largest, most commanding work in the house. Above a sofa is the classic position. Choose a work that holds its own without overwhelming: a strong composition, confident colour, or a piece with genuine presence — like a Matthew Rose collage or a Nicolas Journoud painting.

Entrance Hall

The entrance sets the tone. A single strong piece at eye level makes an immediate impression. This is a good place for a work with an interesting narrative — something guests will ask about.

Bedroom

Bedrooms work best with calmer, quieter works. Abstract pieces, photography, or works with a limited palette tend to suit the space better than high-contrast or visually complex compositions.

Office / Study

A work that means something to you personally — a piece you chose, not one that came with the furniture — makes a difference to how you feel in a space you spend long hours in.

Practical Notes

• Lighting: Natural light from the side is ideal. Avoid direct sunlight on paper works or prints. For artificial light, a picture light or adjustable spot works better than overhead lighting.
• Framing: A good frame protects the work and affects how it reads in the room. For works on paper, acid-free matting and UV-protective glazing are worth the investment.
• Hanging hardware: Use proper picture hooks, not adhesive strips, for anything over 1kg.