How to Style Your Home with Art

How to Style Your Home with Art: How High to Hang Art on a Wall

Art is a powerful tool for personalizing your home and creating a unique atmosphere. But how do you style your home with art effectively? In this guide, we’ll explore various techniques for displaying art, including framing choices, placement strategies, and creative ways to incorporate art into unexpected spaces.

Art Beyond the Frame

When decorating, don’t limit yourself to framed paintings or photographs. Art can take many forms, such as:

• Sculptures
• Antique objects
• Collectibles
• Hanging installations
• Statement furniture (e.g., the Wassily Chair)
• Floral arrangements

Look for ways to display the things you love in your home. Art isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about personal expression.

Choosing Art You Love

Always display art that resonates with you, not just pieces that match your decor. Art should stand on its own and reflect your personality. It doesn’t have to:

• Match the color scheme of your room
• Fit the modern or traditional style of your space
• Follow any strict design rules

Your home should tell your story, and art is one of the best ways to make a space truly yours.

The Two-Thirds Rule for Hanging Art

A common rule for hanging art above furniture is ensuring the artwork spans about two-thirds of the total width of the furniture below. This creates balance and connection between the art and the furniture.

However, there are creative ways to break this rule for a dynamic look.

Asymmetry in Art Placement

If you don’t have a large enough artwork for the two-thirds rule, consider an asymmetrical arrangement. Placing art off-center can add visual interest. To achieve balance, incorporate a vertical element, such as:

• A tall vase
• A floor lamp
• A hanging light fixture

These elements help connect the artwork to the furniture, making the placement look intentional rather than accidental.

Mixing vs. Matching Frames

When arranging a gallery wall, consider the style of the images inside the frames rather than the frames themselves.

• Matching frames: Best for formal spaces and when displaying a series of similar prints or photographs.
• Mixed frames: Ideal for a more eclectic, artistic feel, especially when showcasing different artistic media and three-dimensional pieces.

Throughout your home, mixing frame styles can add variety and interest while keeping your collection cohesive.

To Mat or Not to Mat?

Matting can enhance artwork, especially for photographs and small pieces. Consider these tips:

• Photography and prints often look sharper and more distinguished with a mat.
• Larger pieces may not need a mat, but if used, opt for a substantial-sized mat to maintain balance.
• Paintings often look best with a simple frame rather than matting.

Art in Unexpected Places

While art is commonly placed above sofas and fireplaces, consider displaying pieces in less conventional spots:

• Kitchen: Place art on a backsplash or above a sink.

• Bookshelves: Lean framed artwork on bookshelves for a layered look.

• Glass cabinets: Display small art pieces inside glass cabinets.
• Ledges: Install a picture ledge to easily swap and rearrange art.

Leaning Artwork for a Casual Look

Leaning art against walls or on furniture adds a relaxed, curated feel.

This approach allows for easy movement and layering:

• Lean framed art on a dresser or console table.

• Layer smaller frames in front of larger ones.
• Use open shelving to display a mix of sculptures, books, and framed pieces.

Creating Vignettes

A vignette is a small, curated collection of objects displayed together for artistic impact. To create a beautiful vignette, combine:

• A piece of art
• A sculptural object
• Flowers or natural elements
• Books or collectibles

These curated arrangements tell a story and add personality to your space.

Conclusion

Styling your home with art is about more than just hanging paintings—it’s about creating a space that reflects you. Experiment with different placements, mix frame styles, and explore unexpected locations to make your home truly unique. Whether following design rules or breaking them, the most important thing is to showcase art that brings you joy.

Please, mind that all the artworks in this article are available for purchase other as originals, or as fine art prints. To get the full information – just click on the painting you’re interested in.

Or just go to the art shop

More helpful articles about art you can find here