Essential Guide for Hanging Picture Frames Correctly

Entry #2840, September 17, 2013

As much as I love buying art and framing photographs to deck up the walls at home, I break into a sweat thinking about the ideal height and placement for maximum impact. I often find that frames not hung correctly, too low or too high somehow feel lost. So here is a concise guide on hanging frames and wall art correctly:

1. Hanging mirrors:

Now that you have bought the gorgeous vintage mirror, you are wondering where to place it. A single mirror placed correctly on the wall can work like magic. It helps create an illusion of space and multiplies the light in the room. Strategically place the mirror directly opposite the light fixture or such that it mirrors the chandelier and reflects maximum light.

Strategically place mirrors to reflect maximum light

Image via: Handmade Talks blog

 2. Frame behind a sofa:

If you hate the blank space behind your sofa and have set your mind on placing a piece of art on the wall, remember to measure both your frame and sofa before buying. The wall art should be at least 50% to 90% the size of the sofa. A frame that is less than 50% will feel lost in the massive space behind it, anything more than 90% will dwarf the sofa. Hang the frame between 8 to 10 inches above the back of the sofa. They should complement each other and not feel like they are floating away from each other.

The sofa and wall art together appear to be a cohesive unit

Image via: Decorpad

3. Grouping a mix of frames:

When creating a gallery wall with a mix of frames, it is best to first lay them down and play with the setting rather than directly placing them on the wall.  Start with the largest frame and add smaller frames around it. Keep a gap of at least 2 to 5 inches between the frames. Evenly distribute the visual weight by placing the heavier frames below the lighter ones. The ideal height from the floor to the middle of the frame or grouping should be about 58 inches which is the average eye level.

A visually balance gallery wall

Image via: Lovelyclusters.tumblr

Always trace your frames on paper and review the placement on the wall before drilling the nails and creating unwanted holes. Finally, remember that it is your house and you can decide to break the rules if that makes you happy.

For more decor ideas on Stagetecture, click here.