How to Choose and Place Artwork the Right Way
Ever hung a piece of art, stepped back, and thought… hmm, something’s off? You’re not alone. Artwork has the power to transform a space—but only if it’s placed correctly.
Selecting and positioning artwork can feel overwhelming. Too small? It looks lost. Too high? It feels disconnected. Wrong material? It might not last. If you’ve ever struggled to make your walls feel polished, intentional, and well-designed, this guide will help you get it right.
1. Choosing Art That’s Too Small
You know that feeling when you hang a piece of art and something just feels off? Nine times out of ten, it’s because the scale is too small for the space.
A client of mine had a beautiful 3D sculptural piece, modern and textured—but when we placed it on a large wall, it looked lost. Instead of scrapping it, we bought six identical pieces and arranged them in a structured grid. The result? Instant impact. The repetition made it feel intentional, bold, and expensive—but it was actually a simple fix.
What to Do Instead:
If you’re hanging a single piece above furniture, it should be at least two-thirds the width of the furniture below it.
When in doubt, go bigger—or go multiple. A pair, a trio, or a grid layout can instantly elevate a space.
Think beyond framed prints! 3D art, sculptural panels, woven wall hangings, and even tiles can add depth and texture in a way flat artwork can’t.
👉 Expert tip: Large-scale art makes a space feel more curated and high-end—even if the piece itself is affordable.
2. Thinking Art Is Just Paintings
Most people hear “art” and think framed prints or canvas paintings—but the most stunning interiors layer in unexpected materials for depth and dimension.
Think outside the frame:
Tapestries & Rugs (Yes, rugs aren’t just for floors!)
Sculptural Wall Panels for a modern, architectural look
Woven or Macramé Pieces to add softness and texture
Metal or Wood Installations for a raw, organic feel
Tiles & Mosaics (perfect for outdoor areas, bathrooms, or kitchens!)
Mixed media pieces that combine paint, wood, and fabric
👉 Expert tip: Mixing materials makes a room feel layered and designed—not just decorated.
3. Hanging Art Too High
If there’s one mistake I see in almost every home, it’s this.
Artwork that’s too high throws off the room’s balance. It makes the space feel disconnected, like the art is floating awkwardly rather than belonging.
The Right Height for Artwork:
The centre of the artwork should sit at 145 cm from the floor—this is standard gallery height.
If placing art above furniture (sofa, console, headboard), keep the bottom edge 15–20 cm above the furniture to maintain cohesion
When hanging multiple pieces together, treat the entire arrangement as one unit and align it accordingly.
👉 Expert tip: If you’re not sure, hold the artwork where you think it should go—then lower it by 10cm. It’s almost always better lower than higher.
4. Using the Wrong Art in the Wrong Space
Art isn’t just about how it looks—it’s about where it’s placed and how it lives in the space.
I’ve seen delicate, museum-worthy canvases hung in busy hallways... only to get scuffed by school bags within a week. Or textured, statement pieces placed right next to the dining table—where a splash of spaghetti sauce is one dinner away from ruining it.
Before you hang anything, ask yourself:
Is this space high traffic?
Could this piece get splashed, scratched, or knocked?
Does this material suit the environment?
Where to Use What:
Kitchen & Dining Areas → Opt for pieces that can handle humidity and splashes. Ceramic wall sculptures, framed prints under glass, and durable mixed-media pieces work well.
Living Rooms → The perfect place for statement art—whether a large-scale painting, a gallery wall, or sculptural installation.
Hallways & Entryways → These are great for art, but avoid placing valuable or irreplaceable pieces where they might get knocked or damaged.
Bedrooms → Choose calming, personal artworks that reflect your style, avoiding anything too visually overpowering.
Bathrooms & Outdoor Spaces → Water-resistant materials like metal, glass, or specially treated prints will ensure longevity.
👉 Expert tip: If there’s even a chance something could get stained, scratched, or splattered, opt for easy-to-clean or replaceable art.
5. Thinking You Can’t Use Art in a Rental
Renting doesn’t mean living with blank walls. There’s always a way to add personality without damaging your space.
No-Nail Art Solutions:
Lean it: Large framed pieces look effortlessly stylish when leaned against a wall on a console, sideboard, or even on the floor.
Use removable hooks: Command strips and adhesive-backed hooks are game-changers for renters. They allow you to securely hang artwork without drilling holes—and they remove cleanly when it's time to move.
Layer it: Prop smaller art pieces on bookshelves or open shelving to create a curated, collected look.
Clip or tape it: For a casual, art-gallery vibe, use washi tape or metal bulldog clips to display prints, postcards, or fabric pieces without committing to frames or hooks.
👉 Expert tip: Art doesn’t have to be permanent to make a space feel like home.
Final Thoughts: Make It Personal
At the end of the day, the best artwork is the piece that speaks to you—whether it’s a sculptural panel that catches the light just right, or a print that brings back memories of your travels. Your art should tell a story.
Need help choosing or placing artwork in your home?
Whether it's art selection, layout planning, or sourcing the perfect piece, I can help.
👉 Book a consultation here and let's turn that blank wall into something worth talking about.
💬 Ever struggled with art placement? Or do you have a go-to styling trick? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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