Have you ever found a perfect oversized painting—only to stare at a blank wall wondering: where should it go?
An impressive large painting can transform a room—but only if it is hung in the right place and at the right height. Big wall art adds drama, depth, and elegance, but placement mistakes can make even the most stunning canvas look out of balance. In this guide, we are going to explore where to hang large artwork in different rooms, how to size and align it with furniture, and what common mistakes to avoid.
Where to Hang Large Artwork
Living Rooms
Focal wall: Above the sofa or opposite the main seating area.
Balance: Ensure the painting does not exceed 75% of the width of the sofa.
Examples: TrendGallery’s QUIET PLACE or MORNING OCEAN—large abstracts that anchor modern spaces.
Dining Rooms
Place a horizontally oriented artwork above the dining table.
Ideal for creating atmosphere during meals.
TROUBLED OCEAN works beautifully with minimalist dining interiors.
Bedrooms
A large landscape canvas above the headboard adds softness.
Keep the center of the artwork at the eye level for balance.
Hallways & Entryways
Vertical orientation canvases expand narrow hallways.
Oversized single pieces serve as strong first impressions in foyers.
Home Offices
Hang a large abstract behind the desk to set the creative tone.
How Big Is Too Big?
A common question is how large is too large?
Artwork should cover 60–80% of the wall space where it hangs.
When placed above furniture (sofa, console, bed), the canvas width should be no more than 75% of the furniture width.
👉 Example: For an 84” sofa, choose a large painting around 50–65” wide.
Height & Distance Tips
Eye-level rule: The center of the painting should be about 57 inches from the floor.
Above furniture: Hang the bottom of the frame 5–8 inches above sofas, consoles, or headboards.
Viewing distance: Large artworks require space. In big living rooms, ensure seating is at least 6–8 feet away for proper viewing.
Orientation & Wall Type
Portrait orientation: Best for tall, narrow walls, entryways, or between windows.
Landscape orientation: Ideal over sofas, beds, and long dining tables.
Square or oversized: Perfect for feature walls in lofts or minimalist spaces.
Design Strategies with Large Artwork
- One statement piece – Center a bold oversized canvas for impact.
- Gallery effect – Combine multiple smaller artworks to mimic one large focal point.
- Color coordination – Match accent colors in the art to pillows, rugs, or curtains.
- Style alignment – Large abstract canvases pair well with modern, loft, and Scandinavian interiors.




