The Art Of Hanging Art
One of the first questions clients ask after moving into a new home is surprisingly simple: “Where should my art go?” In New York, where walls tilt, ceilings stretch high, and layouts shift from one building to the next, hanging art can feel strangely intimidating. But it does not have to be. After years of installing artwork in apartments across the city, I have learned that a few uncomplicated principles can make the entire process feel natural.
Finding the Right Height
Most people hang art too high or too low. A reliable starting point is to place the center of the artwork at average eye level. In most homes, that is around 57 to 60 inches from the floor. It feels intuitive when you see it, and it lets the piece relate naturally to the room. In spaces with unusually tall ceilings, like lofts, I adjust the height slightly so the artwork feels connected to the furnishings rather than floating on its own.
Mixing Mediums and Frames
Clients often worry that they need matching frames or a consistent medium throughout a room. You absolutely do not. Some of the most interesting interiors come from mixing photography with painting, pairing contemporary work with vintage finds, or blending natural wood frames with sleek metal ones. The key is to pay attention to proportion and tone so the visual rhythm feels intentional.
Choosing Hardware You Can Trust
Many New Yorkers are afraid of making a mistake, especially in older buildings with unpredictable plaster. Good hardware solves most problems. Use picture hooks that match the weight of your piece, and when you are hanging something larger, it is smart to use two hooks spaced evenly. This helps the piece stay level and keeps it from shifting. A knowledgeable hardware-store person can guide you to the right anchors for the type of wall you have.
How Much Art Is Enough?
Just because you have walls does not mean you need to cover every inch. Negative space lets a room breathe. A clean stretch of wall can be just as expressive as a fully arranged gallery. On the other hand, a long hallway can come alive when you line it with personal photos, travel prints, or art in a thoughtful sequence. It is all about balance and what the space naturally supports.
Art Above Sofas and Headboards
People often worry about placing art above furniture, especially above a sofa where guests lean back. As a rule, hanging a piece six to eight inches above the top of the sofa keeps it close enough to feel connected but high enough to avoid accidental bumps. Over a bed, a single large piece works beautifully when centered and spaced evenly between the headboard and the ceiling. For tall loft spaces, trust your instincts and consider how the art relates to the rest of the room.
Hanging Art Over a Fireplace
If you have a fireplace, consider using a mirror above it. Mirrors bring light into a room, open up narrower New York spaces, and always feel elegant. They are also easier to maintain than many art materials, especially in an area where heat can rise.
Selecting the Right Scale
When in doubt about size, go larger. Art that is too small tends to get visually lost and makes the room feel understyled. A slightly oversized piece anchors a space and creates a sense of confidence and clarity. Framing also plays a role. Even minimal frames can help a piece read with more presence.
When You Need a Second Opinion
Hanging art is one of those details that makes a home feel finished and intentional. If you are unsure about placement or scale, my team and I can always help measure, source, and install your artwork with care. With years experience of being an interior designer in New York, I know how much there is to explore in sourcing and placing art. We are always happy to guide you through this interesting and fun process.