How Do I Hang Art on My Wall? Your Guide Is Here!

The right height, the right place, the right feeling – a guide from Gallery Lienhart

Knowing how to hang art properly can feel tricky, especially if you want to decorate your home with personality and balance.
Common questions include:
How high should I hang my artwork? What is “eye level”? How do I make it look good above my furniture?

Here’s a simple and practical guide from me, Hanna Lienhart, gallerist at Gallery Lienhart, for anyone who wants to create a harmonious home with art on the walls.

Hanging Height – What Does “Eye Level” Actually Mean?

The most useful and common rule:
The center of the artwork should sit at around 145 cm (57 inches) from the floor.
That’s eye level for most adults – and creates a natural visual flow in the room.

Here’s how to calculate it:

  1. Measure the total height of your artwork

  2. Divide it in half = center point

  3. Measure the distance from the top edge to the hanging wire or hook

  4. Add that to the center point

  5. Mark that height on the wall – and hang!

It’s simpler than it sounds – and makes a big difference.

How to Hang Art Above Furniture

When hanging art above a sofa, bed, or sideboard, think of the artwork as part of the furniture composition.

  • Leave 15–30 cm (6–12 inches) between the top of the furniture and the bottom of the artwork

  • The piece should be at least half the width of the furniture – otherwise, it can feel too small or disconnected

Tips for a Balanced Gallery Wall

Want to hang several artworks together? A gallery wall is a great option.

Try this approach:

  • Lay out all your pieces on the floor first

  • Experiment with different arrangements (3–5 artworks is a good starting point)

  • Keep consistent spacing – 5–10 cm (2–4 inches) between pieces

  • Align the center of the composition to 145 cm from the floor for balance

What Tools Should I Use?

That depends on your wall type:

  • Drywall/plaster: Picture hooks or wall anchors

  • Concrete or brick: Wall plugs and screws

  • Wood: Regular nails or screws

  • Moveable displays: Use a picture rail or art shelf

Don’t Forget Light and Atmosphere

Good lighting makes your art come alive. Try:

  • Ceiling spotlights

  • Wall-mounted art lighting

  • Floor lamps angled toward the piece

And most importantly: don’t hang your art too high.
It’s the most common mistake – and it weakens the artwork’s visual impact.

Quick Recap

Center the artwork around 145 cm (57") from the floor
Keep visual connection with furniture underneath
Use proper hanging tools based on wall type
Plan gallery walls on the floor before drilling
Avoid direct sunlight – and choose soft lighting

Would you like help choosing the right artwork and placing it perfectly?
Send me a photo of your wall – I’d be happy to give personal advice on both placement and style.

Welcome to reach out anytime!
Warm regards,
Hanna Lienhart
Gallery Lienhart – Personal art for personal spaces