When you are decorating your walls with your artwork, with your wall decor, you will have many questions. Is this the right location…am I using the right hardware…is there too much, or too little light…should I find a stud…is there anyone that can help?
One common question for every piece…is this the right height? The best rule to follow is to have the center of the piece at eye level of the average person’s height, or 57″. That may seem a little low and in some cases it is. Other considerations should be taken into account, such as the height of your family, the height of the wall, and other items near or attached to the wall and on the floor.
You will also have to decide on what art/wall decor should go on what wall. I suggest to start with a “signature” piece, one that’s most important to you (i.e., an original painting, family portrait, valuable collectible), and/or the largest piece & place that on the most visible wall. Then you could build around that piece with others that would complement or connect.
Colors will also have a key part in any location decision. Will the color of the frame, the art, “jump” off the wall or will it “fight” with the color of the wall? Often times that’s a personal observation, there are no hard and fast rules. On a side note, when getting something framed, you should know where you picture it will be hung & use that in your mats & frame decision.
Another question…are you a minimalist or the opposite? How much you have on any one wall will again be a personal decision. Most walls of any size will have multiple pieces and then the key for that art work/wall decor is balance. It does not have to be perfectly symmetrical, but it should balance.
What about the hardware to hang your artwork…hooks, anchors, wall buddies D rings? As you would suspect, weight is the primary factor that you take into consideration when deciding; also the overall size of the art work/wall decor. For larger, heavier pieces, D rings or wall buddies, and perhaps anchors would be wise. For most others, wired frames and hooks would be sufficient. We suggest two hooks for framed items that measure 16 x 20 or larger. It’s always good to have two points of contact with the wire; this will help spread out the weight and help keep the piece level. One last comment on hardware, wire and hooks works the best, not only the ease to hang but the security as well.
Lastly, does the room have enough light, too much light? When deciding what to hang where, the lighting of the room could play a part. Do you need additional light to show off that priceless artwork? Are you concerned about glare and fading caused by too much light? Your next step is to research art lights and the various types of glass that are available to make sure your treasures are in the right light and protected.
Picture Your Walls in Hamburg offers “wall decor solutions”; helping you answer all these questions and more. Don’t hesitate to call them for your free consultation at (716) 202-1134.
