Art can be an inexpensive way to dramatically change a room. While it may seem one of the easier décor jobs to tackle, many still get it wrong. Pictures are often hung too high, are mis-matched, or seem to fight with existing décor. Unique framing techniques are not always costly but must be hung well. Here are some interesting examples from Restoration Hardware of bold and graphic art each of which is easily replicated when you know how to; I do.
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Lean & layer.
Photos don’t always have to be for the wall. Arrangements can be beautifully displayed on a dresser or piece of furniture. Layer by leaning the photo(s) with other items, like in front of a larger mirror surrounded by a lamp, books, candles, and a vase. Adding more height above the grouping like this branch beautifully "frame" the grouping. |
Consider Alternatives
Instead of hanging all your photographs/art on nails covering bare walls - consider alternatives. Group eclectic frames and photos by using frame rails, available at home stores or through catalogs. Try to mix small and large frames on each rail to create visual balance. If your home has decorative wainscoting or other architectural details featuring a shelf top, simply set pictures along the trim - it creates a gallery effect and is easily changed without damage to walls. |
Maintain One Unifying Element When planning a grouping of art or photographs, keep consistency among at least one element of your design. If you have various sized photographs, make sure they have similar mats and frames. Conversely, if your ‘material' is all very similar in subject, think outside the box with varying frame styles and sizes. Just about everything benefits from being hung in multiples - if you are wary of messing up, lay pictures out on the floor to get an idea of the arrangement you'll like. |
Height & Placement
Common mistakes. pictures are often hung too high. Art galleries employ the rule of hanging pieces so their center is at eye level - or between 58 and 60 inches from the floor. This is a great place to start. Also, many rooms have well-thought out groupings, but they seem to float high above furniture pieces, creating a visual disconnect instead of harmonious focal point. Try pieces 6-8 inches above existing furniture groupings and notice how the vignette seems to come together. Last but not least, consider the size of the frame when hanging groupings. The width of the frame (and sometimes the mat as well) will give you a hint as to the spacing of the pieces. Separating pieces too far apart defeats the purpose of a ‘grouping'. Rule of thumb when spacing - take measurement of frame and repeat that in the space between.
Common mistakes. pictures are often hung too high. Art galleries employ the rule of hanging pieces so their center is at eye level - or between 58 and 60 inches from the floor. This is a great place to start. Also, many rooms have well-thought out groupings, but they seem to float high above furniture pieces, creating a visual disconnect instead of harmonious focal point. Try pieces 6-8 inches above existing furniture groupings and notice how the vignette seems to come together. Last but not least, consider the size of the frame when hanging groupings. The width of the frame (and sometimes the mat as well) will give you a hint as to the spacing of the pieces. Separating pieces too far apart defeats the purpose of a ‘grouping'. Rule of thumb when spacing - take measurement of frame and repeat that in the space between.
Use the Right Tools
Before you begin a hanging project, consider what you'll be hanging and the required tools to make sure your frame is secure and level. Here are some basic hanging tools to keep on hand:
Level, hammer, ruler/measuring tape, nails, picture hangers, d-rings and picture wire, drywall anchors (for architectural fragments), toggle bolts & expanding bolts (for heavier pieces). When in doubt about the weight of your art piece or the security of your nail, find a stud. Studs are typically framed at 16" widths, but an inexpensive Studfinder will eliminate guesswork.
Before you begin a hanging project, consider what you'll be hanging and the required tools to make sure your frame is secure and level. Here are some basic hanging tools to keep on hand:
Level, hammer, ruler/measuring tape, nails, picture hangers, d-rings and picture wire, drywall anchors (for architectural fragments), toggle bolts & expanding bolts (for heavier pieces). When in doubt about the weight of your art piece or the security of your nail, find a stud. Studs are typically framed at 16" widths, but an inexpensive Studfinder will eliminate guesswork.