With up to 3600 custom size options, Madelynn Ave gives you the freedom to select art that’s sized perfectly for your unique space. But how do you determine the right dimensions? Reduce the guesswork with these insider tips from our interior design team, and get to the fun part—hanging that stunning piece on your wall!
Hanging Artwork on Empty Wall Space
If you plan to hang artwork on an otherwise blank wall, use the following formulas as guidelines to find the appropriate width and height:
[wall width] x 0.6 = [width of artwork]
[wall height] x 0.6 = [height of artwork]
When in doubt, bigger is better! When using the above formula, round up to the nearest inch.
Extra tip: When creating a grouping or gallery wall, leave 2 or 3 inches in between each frame.
How high should I hang artwork on an empty wall space?
Keep your art in full view by placing the center of the piece at eye level, which is between 57 and 60 inches on average. Use the following formula:
Placement for top of artwork = [height of artwork % 2] + 60
If you are hanging a gallery wall, treat the entire grouping as one unit and make the center at eye level.
Hanging Artwork Above a Table or Sofa
If you plan to hang artwork on a wall above a console table, buffet table, or sofa, aim for the width to be between 60% and 75% the width of the table or sofa. Use the following formulas to determine the minimum and maximum widths:
[table/sofa width] x 0.6 = [minimum width of artwork]
[table/sofa width] x 0.75 = [maximum width of artwork]
Selecting a width somewhere in between the minimum and maximum recommendations will give you a pleasing finished look. Leaning closer to the maximum width will create more of a focal point, while leaning closer to the minimum width will lend a more understated vibe.
Aim for height of your artwork to occupy between 60% and 75% of the space between your table or sofa and the ceiling. Use the following formulas to determine the minimum and maximum heights:
[space between table/sofa and ceiling] x 0.6 = [minimum height of artwork]
[space between table/sofa and ceiling] x 0.75 = [maximum height of artwork]
Choose a height in this range that allows the center of the piece to be near the average eye level (57–60 inches from the floor). If your ceiling is very high or low, placing the center at eye level may not be advisable. Default to the formulas above.
How high should I hang my artwork above a table or sofa?
Hang the artwork so that the bottom edge is between 6 and 8 inches above the top of your furniture.
Leave a space of between 6 and 12 inches from the top of your artwork and the ceiling.
Hanging Artwork Above a Mantle
If you plan to hang artwork on the wall above your mantle, aim for the width to be about 2/3 the width of your mantle. Use the following formula as a guideline to find the appropriate width:
[mantle width] x 0.67 = [width of artwork]
Aim for height of your artwork to occupy between 60% and 75% of the space between your mantle and the ceiling. Use the following formulas to determine the minimum and maximum heights:
[space between top of mantle and ceiling] x 0.6 = [minimum height of artwork]
[space between top of mantle and ceiling] x 0.75 = [maximum height of artwork]
How high should I hang my artwork above a mantle?
Often, you'll see artwork simply rested on top of a mantle. This simple approach creates a relaxed aesthetic. If you prefer a more formal look, hang your art so that the bottom edge is between 6 and 8 inches above the top of your mantle.
Leave a space of between 6 and 12 inches from the top of your artwork and the ceiling.
Test Your Size
Whether you’re following the rules above or choosing to break them (we see you, trendsetters!), please remember to test your size using a simple painter’s tape trick before placing your order. Here’s how it’s done:
- Determine the size you want to test. Remember that a frame will add to the length and width of your piece.
- Unroll your painter’s tape and, using a tape measure, measure it to the width of the art piece you would like to purchase.
- Cut at that length to create a tape strip.
- Repeat to create two strips for the width and two strips for the height.
- Arrange the tape strips on your wall in the appropriate place to create the outline of the art piece you would like to purchase.
- Take the time necessary to decide if the look is right for you and your space.
- Carefully remove the tape and repeat to test out other sizes as necessary.
When to Go With Your Gut
What looks right to you is more important that the outcome of any formula. Artwork is a highly personal aspect of any interior, so choose a size that evokes the emotional response you’re looking for. This guide is intended to provide you with general suggestions, not hard and fast rules.