How to Hang Pictures and Paintings Like a Pro Decorator

Introduction

When it comes to interior design, wall art is the finishing touch that transforms a house into a home. But there’s an art (pun intended) to displaying your pieces so they look intentional rather than haphazard.

If you’ve ever struggled with uneven frames, awkward spacing, or bare walls, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Today, we’ll walk you through how to hang pictures and paintings like a professional decorator so your walls look curated, stylish, and balanced.

1. Choose the Right Placement

The number one rule decorators follow: art should sit at eye level. As a general guide, the center of your picture or painting should be about 145–155 cm (57–61 inches) from the floor.


  • Hanging above furniture? Leave 15–20 cm (6–8 inches) of space between the frame and the top of the furniture.

  • Creating a gallery wall? Start with the largest piece at eye level and build around it.

👉 Pro Tip: Step back often while placing your pieces—what looks straight up close may feel off when viewed across the room.

2. Get the Height & Balance Right

A single oversized canvas makes a dramatic focal point, while smaller works often work best in pairs or groups. Balance is key:

  • For wide walls, use horizontal arrangements.
  • For tall, narrow spaces, try a vertical stack.
  • Always aim for visual balance, distributing sizes and colors evenly across your layout.

3. Use the Right Hanging Hardware

Professional decorators know that the right hardware makes all the difference.

  • Use picture hooks rather than nails—they hold more weight and reduce wall damage.
  • For heavy paintings, consider wall anchors or even a French cleat system.
  • Always check the frame weight before deciding on hanging methods.

👉 Pro Tip: If you’re renting, removable adhesive hooks or strips are a damage-free solution.

4. Create a Gallery Wall Like a Designer

Gallery walls are a trending way to showcase personality and style. Here’s how to nail the look:


  1. Lay your artwork on the floor first to plan the arrangement.

  2. Mix frame styles and sizes, but keep one unifying element—like a consistent color palette.

  3. Use a template trick: Cut paper to the size of each frame, tape it to the wall, and adjust until you love the layout before hammering a single nail.

6. Don’t Forget Scale & Proportion

One of the most common decorating mistakes is using art that’s too small. A tiny picture floating on a big wall looks out of place. As a rule of thumb:

  • Above a sofa, artwork should be about two-thirds the width of the furniture.
  • Large blank walls benefit from oversized statement pieces or grouped sets.

 Hanging pictures and paintings isn’t just about filling empty walls—it’s about creating atmosphere, telling your story, and adding personality to your space. With these professional decorating tips, you’ll be able to display your wall art beautifully and confidently.

💡 Ready to transform your home? Explore our curated collection of wall art to find the perfect pieces to hang like a pro.