Artwork over Furniture & Size of Artwork

Which and how to place an artwork over furniture?

pictures over bed
pictures over bed

How to Place Artwork Over Furniture so it Looks Good?

Artwork above furniture can transform a room — but placement is key. Hang it too high and it feels disconnected, too low and it looks cramped. Here’s how to get it right every time.

1. Size Matters

  • Width rule: The artwork should be about two-thirds to three-quarters the width of the furniture below it.

  • A piece that’s too small looks lost, while one that’s too wide can overwhelm.

  • If your artwork is smaller, try grouping multiple pieces into a mini gallery wall.

2. The Right Height

  • Leave about 15–25 cm (6–10 inches) between the top of the furniture and the bottom of the frame.

  • This creates a visual connection without making the wall feel squashed.

3. Balance With the Room

  • Large sofa - Go for a statement piece.

  • Narrow console table - A tall vertical piece works beautifully.

  • Dining table - Choose a horizontal or panoramic artwork to echo the table’s shape.

4. Frame and Colour Harmony

  • Match or complement furniture finishes (e.g., black frame with black metal legs).

  • Pull in colours from your cushions, rug, or decor for a cohesive look.

5. Light It Right

  • If possible, add a picture light or nearby lamp to highlight the artwork.

  • Avoid hanging where glare from a window makes the art hard to see.

Room-by-Room Examples

Over a Sofa

  • Center the artwork with the sofa, not the wall.

  • Choose one large piece or two/three smaller pieces in a row.

  • Width: about 2/3 of the sofa length.

Above a Bed

  • Hang artwork about 15–20 cm (6–8 inches) above the headboard.

  • A horizontal piece or a pair of verticals (one on each side) look great.

Over a Console or Sideboard

  • A tall vertical piece makes a striking statement.

  • Or try a grouping of smaller artworks in a grid for balance.

Above a Dining Table

  • Pick a wide, horizontal piece to echo the table shape.

  • Keep the bottom of the artwork low enough so it feels part of the dining area, not floating away.

💡 Quick Tip: Treat your artwork and furniture as a set.
If they look connected — in size, spacing, and style — the whole room feels in harmony and modern.

✨ The right artwork in the right place doesn’t just decorate your space — it elevates it into a stylish, welcoming home. ✨

🎨 More Tips for Hanging and Styling Art