Spacing hangings based on the available wall area creates a balanced display.
Hanging two vertical wall hangings next to each other creates a dynamic focal point that engages the viewer in the individual and paired works of art. Creating this effect requires balancing the hangings with each other and the blank space around them. Measuring the hangings and the wall space or related furniture helps create a balanced arrangement. Testing the desired position of the hangings with paper patterns gives a convenient way to check for the correct spacing between the two hangings -- without harm to the walls.
Paired Hangings
Pairing similar wall hangings works well to fill a blank wall space, such as at the top of a staircase, on a blank wall in a room or on a hallway wall. Two hangings of the same size create a symmetrical display that gives a balanced effect. Although paired hangings are usually hung level with each other, you can also create a stepped effect by hanging one hanging higher that the other. This creates an asymmetrical display and fits well on the side wall of a staircase.
Placement
The placement of wall hangings depends on their size and the available wall space. In a limited space -- such as at the top of a staircase -- you can achieve an uncrowded look by leaving a space between the two hangings that is equal to or smaller than the margin of wall space around the outside edge of each hanging. For an undistorted perspective, the center of the artwork needs to be at eye-level. If you have hangings with tassels or borders, consider the middle of the hanging's main image to be the center. Gain a better perspective on dining room or living room hangings viewed from a sitting position by hanging them lower, such as with the bottoms of the hangings four to six inches above the couch.
Spacing
Unless the wall hangings form a single picture when hung next to each other, leaving a gap between them improves the visual focus on each hanging. Allowing a space of at least three inches between the hangings gives each hanging a margin around it. To center a pair of hangings over a piece of furniture, such as a bed, sofa or desk, aim to fill at least two-thirds to three-quarters of the wall above the furniture with the hangings for visual balance.
Technique for Positioning Wall Hangings
As with many areas of visual presentation and interior decorating, there isn't a hard rule -- there's no requirement for all hangings to have a set distance between them. To plan the correct positions for the hangings, trace the hangings on butcher paper, and tape the paper patterns on the wall. This method reduces the risk of mistakes and damage to the wall from having to move hardware. Penciling the level of the hanging's visual centers on the paper cut-outs and taping them to the wall with painter's tape helps you to position them accurately.
Related posts
Calligraphy wall hangings can add character to a room.Calligraphy is the art of writing beautifully and has been practiced by civilizations throughout the world. When working on paper, most callig...
A father and son arrange a photo for the wall.A family photo wall brings memories back each time you view the pictures. Whether it's the time when your little girl lost both front teeth or the fir...
Painting wall outlets and covers is a quick fix for an eyesore in a room.Wall outlets and outlet covers can be an eyesore in an older home or a forgotten design element in new construction. Person...
Light or medium oak floors look good with white or off-white paint.Now that you've installed oak flooring in your home, you'll need to select a color for the walls that complements the floors well...
Interior painting can have disastrous results if you do not plan ahead.Interior decorating can make any room feel more like part of a cohesive home, but it doesn't entail just accessorizing, choos...
