How to Choose the Right Size Artwork

Whether you're choosing a fine art landscape from your travels or a custom portrait of a beloved pet, size matters.

The right piece of artwork doesn't simply fill an empty wall—it transforms a room. It creates a focal point, sets the mood, and invites people to stop and look a little closer.

One of the most common mistakes people make is choosing artwork that's too small. A beautiful photograph can lose much of its impact if it doesn't have enough presence within the space.

Here are a few simple guidelines to help you choose with confidence.

Choosing a Single Statement Piece

If you're hanging one large piece above a sofa, console table, bed, or fireplace, aim for the artwork to be approximately 60%–75% of the width of the furniture below it.

For example:

If your sofa measures 84 inches wide, your artwork should be approximately 50–63 inches wide.

When hanging the piece:

• Position the center of the artwork about 58 inches from the floor, which is considered comfortable viewing height.

• Leave 6–12 inches between the bottom of the artwork and the furniture below it. This gives the artwork room to breathe while still feeling connected to the space.

• 
  

Creating a Gallery Wall

A collection of artwork should be treated as one large composition rather than several individual pieces.

Arrange the group so that:

• The overall collection is centered about 58 inches from the floor

• The bottom row sits 6–12 inches above the furniture

• Leave at least 1–2 inches between pieces for a clean, gallery-inspired appearance

Think about the overall shape of the arrangement as much as the individual photographs.

Horizontal or Vertical?

The orientation of your artwork can dramatically change the feel of a room.

Vertical pieces naturally draw the eye upward, making ceilings feel taller and creating emphasis above narrower furniture or architectural features.

Horizontal artwork works beautifully above sofas, dining tables, and beds by complementing the width of the furniture and creating a sense of balance.

Gallery walls can combine both orientations to create movement and visual interest while still maintaining an organized feel.

Let the Image Determine the Size

Not every photograph should be printed at the same size.

Simple, minimalist images often look beautiful as smaller pieces.

Detailed landscapes, wildlife photographs, and expressive pet portraits benefit from being printed larger, allowing you to appreciate all of the textures, colors, and small details that make the image special.

If you're standing across the room, you should still be able to enjoy the photograph—not struggle to see what's in it.

When in Doubt... Go Larger

Most people underestimate how large artwork should be.

A generously sized piece creates presence, anchors the room, and often becomes the conversation piece guests notice first.

If you're unsure, tape together sheets of paper or kraft paper on your wall using painter's tape. Seeing the size in your own space makes it much easier to visualize before ordering.

We're Happy to Help

Choosing artwork should be exciting—not stressful.

Whether you're selecting a single statement piece, creating a gallery wall of travel memories, or commissioning a custom pet portrait, we're happy to help you choose the perfect size for your space.

After all, great artwork isn't just something you hang on a wall.

It's something you enjoy every single day.

The best artwork doesn't simply decorate a room. It reminds you of a place, a moment, or someone you love. Choose a size that lets those memories become part of your everyday life.

Living Room Art