Hanging Pictures and Arranging Wall Art
 

An arrangement of favorite, framed photographs, wall art, and collectibles can add personality and warmth to any room. When done correctly, wall art can change the focal point, or, the entire look of any room.

• Pictures should hang just above eye level. There is great debate over what "proper eye level" is. Some say "eye level" should be considered as if viewers were standing. Others say "eye level" should be considered as if viewers were seated. Still others say that "eye level" should be determined according to the primary use of the room. (This means, if most of the time people are standing in the space, like a hallway, then "eye level" should be directed at viewers who are standing. In a room where viewers will spend the majority of the time seated, like a living room, 'eye level" would be from a seated position.)

How and where should wall art be arranged? Well, ask yourself where you would like the "eyes" to focus.

• Creating a group of art or photos on a wall is an excellent way to create an interesting focal point. This task, however, requires extra planning. I would suggest that you map out the way that you would like to arrange your pictures on the floor, first. (This way, you can move them around without leaving nasty holes in the wall!) The secret to arranging art on the wall is simple...balance, balance, balance! Use a measuring tape to be sure that the distance between several pictures that will hang in a row is equal. Four small pictures on the left of a large picture can be balanced with two medium sized pictures on the right. (Remember: This only works with careful consideration to balance. Be patient, take your time, measure, and plan.)
  
• Consider lighting to emphasize your arrangement. When lighting is directed to the arrangement, it commands even more attention. Be careful of lighting that is bright. This type of lighting should be subdued and not produce glare.
  
• Add diversity to the arrangement. Use frames and mats that are different sizes and shapes, but compliment one another.
  
• Pay attention to "balance" in your entire room. Be careful not to put everything in one part of a room. Leaving the other walls bare will throw the balance of the entire room off.