Choosing the right wall art size can completely transform a room. The perfect piece feels intentional, balanced, and proportionate—while the wrong size can make even the most beautiful print look lost or overwhelming. Whether you're styling a living room, bedroom, hallway, or home office, this guide will help you confidently select wall art that fits your space beautifully.
Why Wall Art Size Matters
Wall art isn’t just decoration; it’s a design anchor. The size of your artwork influences:
- Visual balance – A piece that’s too small can make a room feel unfinished.
- Room proportions – Larger art can make a space feel more cohesive and grounded.
- Focal points – The right size draws the eye and enhances your décor rather than competing with it.
- Overall style – Scale is a key part of modern interior design, especially in UK homes where rooms vary widely in size.
General Rule: Aim for 60–75% of the Wall Width
A reliable starting point is to choose wall art that spans 60–75% of the width of the wall (or the furniture beneath it). This ensures the artwork feels connected to the space rather than floating awkwardly.
Examples:
- Above a 3‑seater sofa (approx. 180–210 cm wide):
Choose art between 108–157 cm wide. - Above a double bed (approx. 135 cm wide):
Choose art between 81–101 cm wide. - On a narrow hallway wall:
A tall, slim piece works better than a wide one.
This rule works for single large prints, diptychs, triptychs, or gallery walls.
Choosing the Right Size for Different Rooms
Living Room
The living room usually benefits from large statement pieces. A single oversized print or a well‑balanced gallery wall helps anchor the seating area and adds personality.
Best sizes:
- 70×100 cm
- 100×140 cm
- Large multi‑panel sets
Bedroom
Above the bed, choose artwork that is slightly narrower than the headboard. Horizontal pieces work beautifully here.
Best sizes:
- 50×70 cm (paired)
- 70×100 cm
- 100×140 cm for a bold look
Dining Room
Centred pieces work well above sideboards or dining tables. Keep the artwork at eye level when seated.
Best sizes:
- 60×90 cm
- 70×100 cm
- Triptychs for long walls
Hallways & Entryways
These spaces often suit tall, vertical prints or smaller pieces arranged in a series.
Best sizes:
- 40×50 cm
- 50×70 cm
- Slim vertical prints
Single Large Print vs. Gallery Wall
Single Large Print
Choose this when you want:
- A clean, modern look
- A strong focal point
- Minimalist décor
Large prints work especially well in contemporary homes and open‑plan spaces.
Choose this when you want:
- A curated, personal feel
- Flexibility with sizes and styles
- To fill a large wall without one oversized piece
A gallery wall can follow a grid layout or a more organic arrangement depending on your style.
Consider the Orientation: Portrait vs. Landscape
- Landscape prints widen a room and work well above sofas, beds, and consoles.
- Portrait prints add height and suit narrow walls, hallways, and alcoves.
- Square prints are versatile and easy to mix into gallery walls.
How High Should You Hang Wall Art?
A common mistake is hanging artwork too high. The ideal height is:
- Centred at 145–155 cm from the floor (average eye level)
- 10–20 cm above furniture such as sofas or headboards
This keeps the artwork visually connected to the room.
When to Go Big (Most People Choose Too Small)
If you’re unsure between two sizes, choose the larger one. UK homes often have more wall space than people realise, and oversized art creates a designer look instantly.
Choose a larger size when:
- The wall is wide or tall
- The room has minimal décor
- You want a bold, modern aesthetic
- The furniture beneath is substantial (e.g., a large sofa or king‑size bed)
Final Tips for Choosing the Perfect Wall Art Size
- Measure your wall before buying
- Use masking tape to outline the size on the wall
- Consider the furniture scale
- Think about the room’s purpose and mood
- Mix sizes if creating a gallery wall
Choosing the right wall art size is one of the most impactful design decisions you can make. Aim for artwork that fills 60–75% of the wall or furniture width, consider the room’s proportions, and don’t be afraid to go big—most spaces look more polished with larger pieces. Whether you prefer a single statement print or a curated gallery wall, the right size will bring balance, style, and personality to your home.
