Introduction
Hanging art can add a touch of beauty and personality to any room in your home. We know not every place is suitable for displaying your precious pieces. Whether you’re an experienced art collector or just starting to decorate your home, it’s important to understand the dos and don’ts of where to hang your artwork.
To help you avoid common mistakes and preserve the integrity of your art collection, we’ve compiled a list of 8 things to consider when hanging art in your home.
From avoiding direct sunlight to not hanging art in a bathroom, we’ll cover everything you need to know to display your art in the most effective and visually pleasing way possible. So, before you pick up that hammer, read on!
1. The importance of proper art placement.
Placing your art pieces in the right location is a significant factor in showcasing your artwork effectively. It’s not just about putting them up wherever there’s space, but it’s about appropriately positioning them to complement your home décor and improve the aesthetics of the room.
The significance of proper art placement cannot be overstated for two primary reasons: Firstly, it enhances the visual appeal of the area where you display your artwork, and secondly, its ability to create a lasting impression on any viewer who comes across it.
So always make sure that you consider all aspects when it comes to art placement.:
1. Aesthetics – Proper artwork placement can add to your home’s overall aesthetics. It can elevate the look of a room, make it more inviting, and tie together the overall decor.
2. Complementing Furniture – Proper placement of artwork also includes considering the furniture in a room. It is important to place artwork in a way that complements and ties together the furniture, creating a cohesive look.
3. Creating Focal Points – Well-placed artwork can create focal points in a room, drawing the eye and creating a visual center. This can be used to bring attention to a particular area of the room or to balance out the decor.
4. Protecting Art – When it comes to the proper placement of artwork, aesthetics are just the tip of the iceberg. It’s crucial to avoid placing art in locations with high humidity, direct sunlight, or areas where it may be prone to accidental damage.
Not only does this protect the artwork, but it also preserves its beauty over time so you can continue to enjoy it for years to come.
2. Avoid hanging art in the bathroom.
When it comes to hanging art in your home, some places are a definite no-no. One area you should always avoid is the bathroom. Here’s why hanging artwork in the bathroom is not a good idea:
1. Humidity – Bathrooms are typically humid spaces, and moisture can easily damage artwork. The prolonged exposure to moisture can ruin artwork, causing it to warp or discolor.
2. Heat – The heat generated in the bathroom can also damage artwork. Heat can cause the paint to crack or peel, and prolonged exposure can damage the artwork over time.
3. Privacy – The bathroom is a very private space, and guests are unlikely to spend extended periods of time in it. Hanging art in the bathroom is a waste of your best pieces, which will not be properly appreciated.
3. Avoid placing art near high heat or humidity sources.
When it comes to displaying art in your home, it’s essential to consider the placement carefully. Avoid placing art near sources of high heat or humidity, as these can cause significant damage to your valuable pieces over time.
Here are some specific places to stay away from when hanging artwork:
1. Above the fireplace – Heat is a significant issue when it comes to hanging art, making the area above the fireplace one of the worst possible locations for artwork. The heat generated by the fire can damage the piece, causing warping or discoloration.
2. Near vents or HVAC systems – Ventilation and air conditioning can also cause issues with the art. The airflow can cause the artwork to move and vibrate, causing damage to the piece over time.
3. Close to windows – Direct sunlight can be damaging to artwork, causing fading and discoloration. It’s important to keep art away from direct sunlight to prevent damage.
4. In damp basements or crawl spaces – Humidity is also an issue to consider when hanging art. Damp basements or crawl spaces can cause mold and mildew to develop, which can damage the artwork.
By avoiding these high heat or humidity sources, you can help preserve your artwork’s beauty and value for years to come. Choose a suitable location and take the necessary steps to protect your valuable pieces.
4. Don’t hang art too high or too low.
When it comes to hanging art in your home, it’s important to consider more than just the aesthetic appeal. Placement also plays a critical role in ensuring your valuable pieces are protected from damage.
Here are five areas to avoid when it comes to displaying your art:
1. Too High – Hanging art too high can make it difficult to appreciate and enjoy, and it can also be dangerous if it falls. Generally, art should be hung at eye level to ensure maximum impact and safety.
2. Too Low – Hanging art too low can also be problematic. Not only can it be challenging to see, but it’s also more susceptible to damage from accidental bumping or spills.
3. Narrow or Tight Spaces – Avoid hanging art in narrow or tight spaces, such as hallways or stairwells. These areas can be difficult to navigate, and the risk of damage is higher due to the proximity of the artwork to foot traffic.
4. Busy Areas – When it comes to hanging art in your home or office, it’s important to consider the placement carefully. Avoid hanging pieces in busy areas near doors or high-traffic zones.
Not only does this increase the likelihood of accidental damage, but it can also be distracting and detract from the impact of the artwork. Take a thoughtful approach to things to consider when hanging art to ensure that it is both safe and visually pleasing.
5. Avoid hanging art in areas where it may be susceptible to damage.
When it comes to displaying your artwork at home, it’s not just about the aesthetics and placement of each piece. It’s essential to ensure that your valuable artworks are safeguarded from potential damage.
To protect them, there are six key areas that you should avoid when displaying your art.
1. Humid Areas – Art should not be hung in areas with high levels of humidity, such as bathrooms or kitchens. Moisture can damage the artwork and cause it to deteriorate over time.
2. Near Heat Sources – Avoid hanging art near heat sources such as radiators or fireplaces, as the heat can cause warping, cracking, or other damage.
3. Wet Areas – Art should not be hung in areas where there is a risk of it getting wet, such as near a sink or shower. Water damage can be particularly devastating to artwork.
4. Areas with Strong Vibrations – Avoid hanging art in areas where there are strong vibrations, such as near a loud stereo or television, as this can cause the piece to shift or move over time.
By avoiding these areas, you can help ensure that your art remains in good condition for years to come. Don’t risk losing your valuable pieces to damage – take the time to consider placement and protect your investment carefully.
6. Hanging art away from direct sunlight.
When it comes to preserving your artwork, direct sunlight can be a major cause for concern. Exposure to UV rays can lead to fading of colors, cracking of paint, or yellowing of paper-based artwork.
If your piece hasn’t been framed with museum-quality UV-protective glass, it’s especially vulnerable. The best way to protect your artwork from sunlight damage is by taking preventative measures such as framing with the right glass and hanging in shaded areas.
When it comes to displaying your artwork, it’s important to consider its placement carefully. If you’re thinking of hanging your art in front of a window, it may be best to reconsider due to the risk of harmful UV rays.
Instead, aim for a shaded area in your home that will provide protection from sun exposure. If you need to place your artwork near a window, using specially designed hooks or wires can help keep it stable and prevent damage from UV light.
Additionally, taking regular care and cleaning measures can help ensure that your beloved art pieces remain in excellent condition for years to come.
7. The size and proportion of the artwork in relation to the room.
When it comes to hanging artwork in your home, it’s crucial to consider the size and proportion of the piece in conjunction with the size of the room it will be displayed in. Not all artwork is created equal, and not all pieces will suit every room.
For instance, hanging a tiny piece of art on a large, bare wall can make the room look unbalanced and awkward. Similarly, hanging a massive piece of artwork in a small room can overwhelm the space and make it feel cramped.
To ensure your artwork compliments the room it’s displayed in, take note of the dimensions of both the piece and the space it will be hung in.
A good rule of thumb is to ensure that the art is at least half the width of the piece of furniture it is above. For example, if you have a sofa that is eight feet wide, hang a piece of artwork that is at least four feet wide above it.
In order to create a visually appealing atmosphere, it’s crucial to carefully consider the height at which you’ll hang your artwork.
For optimal viewing comfort, it’s recommended that you hang your art at eye level. This ensures that viewers can comfortably enjoy the piece without straining their necks or eyes.
By considering these key factors when displaying your artwork, you can be confident that it will be presented in the most effective and aesthetically pleasing manner possible.
8. Consider the mood and tone of the artwork.
Choosing the right artwork for a space is about more than just size and proportion. It’s also important to consider the mood and tone of the piece in relation to the mood and tone of the room it will be displayed in.
For instance, hanging a dark and moody piece of artwork in a light and airy room may disrupt the overall feel of the space. Similarly, hanging a whimsical and playful piece in a serious and formal room may not be the best choice.
When selecting artwork for a space, consider the overall aesthetic and atmosphere of the room. Choose artwork that reflects that mood if it’s a relaxed and casual space. Consider artwork that fits that tone if it’s a more formal or traditional space.
Also, keep in mind the function of the room. If it’s a space where you want to promote relaxation, such as a bedroom or living room, consider artwork with calming colors and gentle imagery.
If it’s a more high-energy space, like a home gym or game room, consider artwork with bold colors and dynamic imagery.
By considering the artwork’s mood and tone, you can choose pieces that enhance the space’s aesthetic and create a cohesive and visually appealing atmosphere.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, hanging art in your home should be a thoughtful and deliberate process. It’s important to consider factors such as size, proportion, and color, as well as the mood and tone of the artwork and the space it will be displayed in.
Be sure to avoid hanging artwork in places that could be harmful to the piece, such as direct sunlight or humid areas. It’s also important to avoid hanging art in spaces that are too cluttered or too close to each other. Art needs space to breathe and be appreciated.
So take your time when deciding where to hang your artwork. Think about the message you want to convey and how each piece fits into the overall aesthetic of your home. With a little thought and planning, you can create a space that is both visually stunning and meaningful to you.
