What Print Size Should I Buy?

Selecting the perfect print size for your wall art is more than just choosing a piece you love—it’s about achieving a harmonious balance between the artwork, the space, and your overall interior design. A well-proportioned piece can enhance your room’s aesthetic, making it feel complete and visually appealing, while an ill-fitting size can disrupt the flow of the space.

If a print is too small, it may get lost on a large, empty wall, leaving the space feeling incomplete or underwhelming. On the other hand, if it’s too large, it might dominate the room, making it feel cluttered or overwhelming. The key is to strike the right balance so that your artwork enhances the space without overpowering it.

General Sizing Guidelines.

1. Wall Space Coverage.

A well-balanced look starts with proportion. Your artwork should cover 60% to 75% of the available wall space, which is the area not obstructed by furniture, moldings, or windows.

• How to Calculate the Ideal Size:

Measure the width and height of your wall. Then, multiply each measurement by 0.60 and 0.75 to determine the size range your artwork should fall within.

Example:
Let’s say your wall measures 2.7m (9ft) wide and 1.5m (5ft) high:

• Ideal artwork height: 1.7m (5ft 6in) to 2.1m (6ft 9in)
• Ideal artwork width: 0.9m (3ft) to 1.2m (3ft 8in)

These dimensions help your art fill the space without feeling too cramped or too sparse.

2. Proportion to Furniture.

When hanging artwork above furniture, such as a bed, couch, or console table, the piece should be 2/3 to 3/4 the width of the furniture. This ensures the art looks visually tied to the furniture and doesn’t feel either too small or overbearing.

• How to Calculate the Ideal Width:

Measure the width of your furniture, then multiply it by 0.66 and 0.75 to get the ideal artwork width.

Example:
For a couch that’s 1.8m (6ft) wide:

• Ideal artwork width: 1.1m (3ft 6in) to 1.3m (4ft 6in)

This proportion creates harmony between the furniture and the art, making the room feel cohesive and well-designed.

3. Orientation Matters.

The shape of your artwork should match the shape of the wall or the furniture it’s paired with:

• Portrait orientation (taller than wide) is ideal for narrow walls or spaces like hallways.
• Landscape orientation (wider than tall) works well above long pieces of furniture, such as beds, sofas, or dining tables.
• If you’re decorating a large wall, consider combining several smaller pieces into a gallery wall for a dynamic and personalized look.

Why Size Matters.

Larger Artwork.

Large pieces are great for creating a focal point in a room. A single oversized print can anchor the space and draw the eye, adding drama and sophistication.

Smaller Artwork.

Smaller prints can still make an impact when used strategically. Instead of hanging one small piece on a large wall (which can look lost), try grouping multiple smaller pieces together to form a gallery wall. This creates visual interest and allows you to tell a story or showcase a theme.

Tips for Hanging Wall Art.

1. Hang at Eye Level.

For a polished look, hang your artwork at eye level, which is typically around 1.5m (5ft) from the floor to the center of the piece. This ensures it’s easy to view without straining your neck.

2. Consider Furniture Placement.

When hanging art above furniture, leave 0.3m (1ft) of space between the top of the furniture and the bottom of the artwork. This creates breathing room and helps the artwork stand out.

3. Grouping Smaller Pieces.

If you’re creating a gallery wall choosing the correct print size is vital, plan the arrangement before hanging. Lay the pieces on the floor and experiment with different layouts until you find one that feels balanced. Start with the largest piece in the center or off-center, then build around it with smaller pieces.

4. Mind the Room’s Scale.

In a small room, oversized artwork can make the space feel cramped. Conversely, small artwork in a large room can feel underwhelming. Always consider the overall size of the room when choosing your artwork.

Final Thoughts.

Selecting the right size wall art doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By considering the size of your wall, the proportions of your furniture, and the overall scale of your room, you can find a piece that feels perfectly tailored to your space. Whether you’re making a bold statement with a large print or curating a gallery wall with smaller pieces, following these tips will help you create a look that feels balanced, stylish, and uniquely yours.