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Art Placement 101

  • lexi7592
  • Oct 1
  • 2 min read

Updated: Oct 28

Art has the power to transform a room. As designers, we often see homeowners hesitate to hang art because they’re unsure about placement or scale. You don’t need a museum curator’s eye to create walls that feel balanced, stylish, and personal. Using a few key rules and a little creative freedom, you can showcase your art like a pro.


Find the Right Height


One of the biggest mistakes we see in client homes is art hung too high. A good rule of thumb is to center your artwork at eye level, which is about 57–60 inches from the floor. In living spaces, align artwork with the seating height, not the ceiling. For gallery walls, keep the center of the arrangement at eye level, even if pieces extend higher or lower.


Modern living room designed by Lex & Hudson featuring a soft lavender sofa, sculptural glass coffee table, and mustard yellow rug. The space blends playful color with organic form, accented by plum armchairs, layered ceramics, and coastal artwork for a relaxed yet refined atmosphere.
Project: Upper East Side

Scale to the Space 


Art that’s too small can make a room feel unfinished, while oversized pieces can overwhelm your space. Artwork should be about two-thirds the width of the furniture. Consider a large statement piece instead of multiple small ones for dining rooms.


Inviting dining room designed by Lex & Hudson featuring a vintage wood table and reupholstered chairs, layered with an antique rug and fresh greenery centerpiece. A bold green abstract artwork adds a modern touch, connecting to the adjacent living room’s soft, neutral palette and timeless architectural details.
Project: Darien

Layer and Style Beyond Walls


Not all art needs to be hung. Lean framed pieces on mantels, shelves, or consoles for a casual, layered effect or pair art with objects like vases, books, or plants to create styled vignettes.


Contemporary dining area designed by Lex & Hudson featuring a deep green sideboard with brass hardware, Danish-inspired chairs, and layered abstract artwork. The mix of natural wood tones, painterly art, and fresh greenery creates a sophisticated yet approachable aesthetic.
Project: Windsor Terrace

Add Lighting


Proper lighting elevates art instantly. Use picture lights to highlight statement pieces.


Brooklyn brownstone kitchen designed by Lex & Hudson featuring custom cabinetry framed by restored woodwork, a marble island with fan-patterned tile, and brass fixtures. A statement double-shaded pendant and integrated range create a seamless blend of historic architecture and modern functionality.
Project: Park Slope

Hanging and styling art is less about strict rules and more about creating balance and intention. By paying attention to scale, placement, and grouping, you can display art in a way that feels curated without feeling staged.




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