How to Choose the Right Wall Art Size for Every Room
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Time to read 2 min
The right size helps artwork feel connected to the room around it.
How to Choose Wall Art Size for Your Space
You've found a piece of art you really love. Now, which size should you choose?
Start with the spot where it will hang. A few measurements and paper templates can help you picture the result before you order.
A sofa, headboard, or narrow stretch of wall gives you a useful reference for choosing a piece that feels comfortable in the room. The goal is to find a size that works with the space you use every day, whether that is a living room focal point or a small corner beside your desk. These four steps explain how to choose wall art size, from measuring your space to testing the layout before you buy.
Measure your space
Measure the usable width and height of the wall, allowing for windows, doorways, switches, and lighting. If the art will hang above furniture, measure that too.
Look at the shape of the available area. A horizontal piece or pair can suit a wide sofa, while a vertical piece may fit a narrow entryway wall. Above a console, leave room for lamps or other objects that will share the space. You do not need to fill every inch; open wall helps give the artwork room to breathe.
Find a shape for your space.
Use furniture as a guide
An artwork or grouping about two-thirds of the furniture’s width is a useful starting point.
Above a 72-inch sofa, for example, try an arrangement around 48 inches wide.
Treat this as a flexible guide rather than an exact requirement. Check the height as well as the width, and consider nearby shelves or lamps. Above a bed, use the actual headboard width as your reference. Compare one wider piece with a pair to see which arrangement you prefer.
Michael Marcon | Soft Distant Valley Landscape Canvas Wall Art - 30 x 40 inches
Michael Marcon | Soft Distant Valley Landscape Canvas Wall Art - 36 x 48 inches
The smaller canvas leaves more open wall; the larger size creates a stronger focal point.
Count frames and gaps
Plan with the finished outside dimensions, including the frame. Check the product details to see whether the listed size describes the image or the complete piece.
For multiple works, count the spaces between them too. Two pieces measuring 20 inches wide each, separated by a 3-inch gap, make an arrangement 43 inches wide overall. These are illustrative measurements; use the finished dimensions of the pieces you are considering.
Test before buying
Cut paper to the finished dimensions of your options and temporarily position it on the wall using a wall-safe method. If you are planning a pair, include the gap between the templates.
Step back to the doorway, then look from your usual seat. Does the arrangement feel connected to the furniture? Does it crowd a window or lamp? Try another size or orientation if needed. A small room can still suit a larger work when the available wall space allows it.
Tape paper templates to the wall to test size and spacing before ordering.
Before you order, remember...
Measure the space
Check the finished dimensions
Test the outline
Once the layout feels right, explore Stupell wall art and compare available sizes to find your fit.
