Design Do’s and Don’ts: Hanging and Selecting Art

Editor’s Note: You have to do it…hanging and selecting art.  Because, bare walls are no way to live.  Desi, from Desi Interior Design, is here to show us the right way to do it.  I love these tips, and you certainly don’t want to miss some of the great resources she links to below.

Art is an important part of an interior design scheme. The right piece can inspire a color palette or bring a room together in its final stages. I hear from so many clients that hanging and selecting art for your interior is a daunting task. There are so many choices and so many nail holes that could result! Below I share my top do’s and don’ts for using art in an interior space.

Do Hang at Eye Level
Typically art looks best when the center of the piece is 5′-6″ (66″) above the finished floor. Use this as a starting point and adjust higher or lower to suit your personal preference.  When hanging multiple pieces together, the center of the arrangement should be 5′-6″ above the finished floor.

Don’t Forget About Framing
A well-chosen frame can take an inexpensive piece from so-so to stunning. User friendly site, Framed & Matted, is a great way to create a semi-custom, affordable frame. Use double mats for an extra luxe look.

Do Embrace Gallery Style
Several small pieces can create one beautiful cluster. When hanging art gallery style use frames with similar shapes and finishes to create a sense of unity among the various pieces. Have a bunch of miscellaneous frames lying around? Use spray paint to make them all the same color for a quick DIY fix.

Don’t Think You Have to Spend a Lot of Money
Great art is art that you love. Look for affordable pieces at local stores.  If you are in the Twin Cities start with Corazon, gallery 360, or Paper Hat. And, every November check out the ever popular MCAD Art Sale where recent graduates sell their art for less than $1,000.

Do Consider Where You Want a Focal Point
Hanging a striking work of art is a perfect way to create a focal point in your space. Center your seating grouping on a piece of art or draw guests into your home by displaying an interesting piece in the foyer.

Desi Creswell is a Certified Interior Designer who specializes in designing signature spaces for distinguished executives and professionals. Desi loves to share her creative spirit and inspiration on her blog, which reflects the unique ways in which her readers live, work, and play.