5 Living Room Art Placement Errors That Scream Lack of Taste

Art can elevate your living room from ordinary to extraordinary, but improper placement can have the opposite effect. Here are five art placement errors that can undermine your living room’s aesthetic, along with tasteful solutions:

1. The “Postage Stamp” Effect

The Error: Hanging a single, small piece of art on a large, empty wall.

The Fix:

  • Create a gallery wall with multiple pieces to fill the space appropriately
  • Opt for a large-scale piece that’s proportionate to the wall
  • Use a diptych or triptych to expand the visual impact

2. The “Necklace” Syndrome

The Error: Hanging all art pieces in a single, straight line around the room.

The Fix:

  • Vary the heights of your art to create visual interest
  • Group pieces of different sizes together to form interesting arrangements
  • Use a mix of wall-mounted art and leaning pieces for depth

3. Ignoring the Furniture Below

The Error: Failing to consider the relationship between art and the furniture it hangs above.

The Fix:

  • Ensure art is proportional to the furniture beneath it (typically 2/3 to 3/4 the width of the furniture)
  • Center art over furniture unless intentionally creating an asymmetrical look
  • Consider the style and color of the furniture when selecting and placing art

4. The “Jack and Jill” Mistake

The Error: Always hanging art pieces in symmetrical pairs.

The Fix:

  • Embrace asymmetry for a more dynamic and contemporary look
  • Mix different sizes and orientations of art for visual intrigue
  • Use odd numbers of pieces in groupings for a more natural feel

5. Overlooking the Viewer’s Perspective

The Error: Hanging art without considering sightlines and viewing distances.

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The Fix:

  • Place larger, bolder pieces in areas viewed from a distance
  • Reserve intricate or smaller works for areas where people can view them up close
  • Consider how the art looks from different angles and seated positions in the room

By avoiding these art placement errors, you can create a living room that showcases your art collection with sophistication and style. Remember, the goal is to create a cohesive look that enhances your space rather than detracts from it.

Art placement is an opportunity to express your personal taste and create focal points in your living room. Take the time to experiment with different arrangements, and don’t be afraid to break traditional rules if it results in a look you love. The key is to create a balance between your art and the rest of your living room elements, resulting in a space that feels curated and intentional.