Wall art can make or break your living room. But knowing where to hang it is just as important as what you choose. The wrong placement can make a space feel off-balanced or unfinished, while the right one ties everything together and creates that polished, pulled-together look.
Whether you’re styling a blank wall space, decorating above a sectional, filling the area above your fireplace, or trying to determine the best height to hang pictures, this step-by-step guide walks you through exactly how to style art and where it should go based on furniture layout, focal points, and room flow.
No guesswork, no measuring mistakes, just clear guidance to help you create a living room you’ll love to show off.
Key Takeaways
- Hang art 6–8" above furniture like sofas or sideboards
- Center artwork with furniture or architectural features, not just the wall
- Leave 2–3" spacing between grouped prints for a clean look
- Avoid placing art too high—eye level is best (about 57"–60" from the floor)
Wall Art Placement Above a Sofa
One of the most popular places to hang wall art is above a couch, but it’s also one of the easiest spots to get wrong.
Follow these sofa wall art rules:
- Art should be about 2/3 the width of the couch
- Leave 6–8 inches of space between the top of the sofa and the bottom of the artwork
- Use either one large piece of art (like 36x48") or a set of 2–3 medium prints arranged vertically
Tip: Don’t crowd the piece too close to the ceiling. Keep it visually grounded by relating it to the furniture.
Hanging Wall Art Over a Fireplace
Your fireplace is a natural focal point, so the art you place above it needs to feel intentional.
Here’s what works best:
- Choose art that’s slightly narrower than the mantel (about 75–90% of its width)
- Stick with a single, bold piece like a framed canvas or vertical print
- Leave 3–6" of space between the mantel and the bottom of the art
If you have a tall ceiling, opt for an oversized piece. A 30x40" or 36x48" vertical print can draw the eye upward beautifully.
Tip: Landscapes, abstracts, or textured neutrals work well over a fireplace because they complement without overpowering.
Best Wall Art Placement for Sectionals
Sectionals create L-shaped seating, which can make art placement tricky, but here’s how to get it right:
- Center the art on the longest part of the sectional wall
- Choose a piece that fills the horizontal space (e.g., 48"–60" wide)
- Don’t center it to the wall—center it to the furniture
💡 Design trick: Use two stacked vertical pieces if you’re decorating a corner wall behind the sectional’s shorter arm.
Where to Hang Art Between Windows
Got a wall with windows or French doors? You still have options.
- Use the open space between windows for narrow or vertical art (think 18x24" or 20x30")
- Keep the art centered between the window edges, not the wall
- Consider botanical or textured prints to bring softness to all the angles
Style tip: Lighter colors and simple designs work best as wall decor in bright, windowed rooms to avoid visual clutter.
Ideal Wall Art Spots Near a TV
While a gallery wall around a TV can feel busy, flanking it with a few pieces can work well. If you’re considering wall art above a TV, a more minimal approach usually looks best.
- Hang artwork on each side of the TV, about 4–6 inches from the edge
- Use medium prints (16x20" or 18x24") in matching tones or frames
- Align the vertical center of the art with the TV center for balance
Smart move: Stick to abstract, minimalist, or monochrome art to avoid competing with the screen. You can also place small pictures or one piece of art on wall shelves.
Floating Furniture? Anchor It with Art
If your living or family room furniture floats in the center of the space, wall art can visually ground the arrangement.
- Use vertical art on nearby structural walls (like columns or half-walls)
- Consider a small gallery set behind a console table
- Use diptychs (2-piece sets) for symmetry behind backless sofas
If you’re working with a gallery wall, keep spacing consistent so the arrangement reads as one cohesive focal point instead of scattered pieces.
🖼️ Need help choosing sets? Browse our ready-to-hang Living Room Wall Art Collection.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Placing Art
Avoid these missteps that throw off your room’s entire vibe:
- Hanging art too high (always aim for eye-level!)
- Choosing art that’s too small—don’t be afraid to go big
- Misaligning art with furniture—your art should relate to what’s under it, not just the wall
Pro tip: Painter’s tape is your best friend. Outline where you plan to hang your art before you commit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How high should I hang art above my couch?
Stick to 6–8 inches above the top of the sofa for the perfect balance—not too low and not floating off the wall.
Can I hang art above a sectional?
Yes! Center it to the longest part of the sectional and use larger pieces to fill the horizontal space.
What art goes best above a fireplace?
Framed canvas prints, oversized abstracts, or vertical nature scenes all work beautifully. Just be sure the width doesn’t exceed the mantel.
Is it okay to hang art around a TV?
Yes, as long as you keep it balanced and not overly busy.
Final Thoughts: Make Every Wall Work
Great art deserves to be seen, and placing it right is what makes the difference between “just okay” and beautifully styled. Whether it’s over your fireplace, above your sectional, or flanking your windows, the key is to size it right, keep it balanced, and choose prints that complement your space.
🖼️ Ready to style your space like a pro? Shop our curated Living Room Wall Art Collection to find your favorite pieces today. Made-to-order, always free shipping across North America, and designed to fit your space perfectly.
