How to Measure Your Wall for Artwork by Penelope Jayne
How to Measure Your Wall for Artworks
How to Measure your wall, for Artworks. Choosing the right size painting can make a huge difference to how a room feels. A well-proportioned artwork creates harmony in the space and allows the painting to become a natural focal point.
Below are a few simple steps to help you determine the best size for your wall.
Step 1 — Measure the Wall Space
Start by measuring the width and height of the wall area where you would like the painting to hang.
Often it’s more helpful to measure the usable space between furniture, windows, or architectural features, rather than the entire wall.
For example:
If the wall above your sofa measures 180 cm (about 71 inches) wide, the artwork should usually occupy two-thirds to three-quarters of that width.
This creates a comfortable visual balance in the room.
Step 2 — Consider the Furniture Below
If the painting will hang above furniture — such as a sofa, console, or bed — the artwork should relate visually to the furniture beneath it.
A simple guideline is:
The artwork should be around 60–75% of the width of the furniture.
This helps the painting feel connected to the space without overwhelming it.
Step 3 — Leave Breathing Space
Artwork needs a little breathing room around it.
If a painting sits too close to shelves, ceilings, or furniture edges, the space can feel crowded.
Leaving 20–30 cm (about 8–12 inches) of space around the artwork helps it become a calm visual focal point.
Step 4 — Test the Size on Your Wall
One of the easiest ways to visualise a painting is to create a temporary outline on the wall.
You can do this by:
• taping paper to the wall
• using painter’s tape to mark the dimensions
• cutting cardboard to the size of the artwork
Stand back and view the outline from across the room. You’ll quickly sense whether the size feels balanced.
Step 5 — Hang at the Right Height
The centre of a painting should usually sit 145–150 cm (about 57–59 inches) from the floor, which is roughly eye level for most people.
If the artwork hangs above furniture, place it slightly lower so the painting and furniture feel connected.
A Final Thought
A painting often becomes the quiet anchor of a room — something that draws the eye and gently shapes the atmosphere of the space.
When the proportions feel right, the artwork doesn’t simply fill a wall — it becomes part of the room’s character and presence.
If you’re ever unsure about sizing, you’re always welcome to reach out from the studio. I’m happy to help collectors find a piece that feels just right for their space.
Penelope Jayne
From the studio on the Central Coast, NSW
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