I find many times when I enter a clients home they have hung art and pictures on any and every wall space they have; I refer to this as postage stamps.
Usually a postage stamp is just one and even though hung in its proper place, it still looks like an island in the middle of a great expanse to me.
Whenever you have small pictures or art, consider grouping them together.
Many people understand that a grouping can make a stronger statement. However, don’t feel the need to hang these items in a square or rectangle pattern. Even if they are the same size, you can dance these pieces together in a random fashion.
Always consider keeping the theme of the art similar in each room. For example, a bold colored abstract wouldn’t work well with a more traditional landscape.
If you have symmetrical wall space in a room, such as to the left and right of a fireplace, consider using a pair of companion pieces.
Consider placing art in an unusual space to make an impact. I like to hang art above a toilet. Sometimes something whimsical, it is a bathroom after all! Art hung over a towel bar adds a nice statement and is grounded well with a complimentary towel hanging under.
When I work with a client who has framed family photos, I like to group them together.
I always ask my client if they have any sentimental pieces that can hang on the wall. Maybe I can take some family heirloom pieces and frame them in a shadowbox frame.
Add a large family initial, a mirror or two (in circular shapes to contrast the geometric frames) and you can create a unique wall arrangement that tells a story to your guests, and it will put a smile on your face as you walk past it every day.
Don’t forget the staircase. It can be tricky hanging multiple pieces on an angular wall. Make sure the pieces have the same space between them and hang them at the same exact height. If you measure from the top of the step it falls over things should go well.
Also, it is sometimes a fun idea to hang some art inside your bookshelves. This helps create some dimension and interest. It is unexpected and adds a nice touch. Maybe even hang the art on the front of the bookshelf.
I like to find an opportunity to hang art outside. If you have a covered area, most canvas art can be left hung on the wall. I have a place on a tall brick wall that I like to hang a piece of art; however, unless I have guests over, I store it away as the elements would destroy it.
