Size really does matter when it comes to choosing art for your walls. The right size can really pull the overall décor of your room together, giving a clear focal point. The wrong sized canvas can leave the room feeling incomplete as if the art was added as an afterthought and not as a considered purchase.

In this article, we have 5 tips and tricks to keep you on the right path.

1. Size

The general rule when selecting art is that is should fill 60-70% of the available wall space. If you are using the canvas as a focal point above a mantelpiece, headboard, sideboard or sofa, the same rule is applied. So if your sofa measures 70 inches across then you should aim to fill 42 - 53 inches of space above it. If uncertain and you don't have your tape measure at hand, go LARGE! You want your art to make a statement, too much empty wall space can swallow up a small piece of art.

Composition 2 by  Wassily Kandinsky

2. Gallery Walls

If you find a piece of art which is on the smaller side, don't worry, instead fill the wall space with a collection of smaller canvasses. This is known as a gallery or salon wall, equal-sized pieces can work well in a grid format, whereas different sizes favour a random arrangement. The centre of the gallery wall should be at eye level or if above furniture leave a clearance of about 12 inches.

Costumes Parisiens Manteau de velours by George Barbier | Dragonfly on Flower by Morimoto Toko | Ferns by Julie de Graag | Green Wheat Fields, Auvers by Van Gogh | Peacock by Ohara Koson  

3. Portrait or Landscape

When it comes to orientation visualise the space you want to fill. High vaulted ceilings will suit a portrait piece, a wide expanse of space will need a landscape canvas.  

4. How to Hang

Once you have your canvas the next step is to hang correctly. The rule to follow when hanging on a blank wall is that your eye level should be in the centre of the piece. If you are very short or very tall work to 55-60 inches from the floor.

If you are hanging above a piece of furniture you need to leave a clearance of 6-12 inches. It is important that you leave enough room so that the furniture does not merge into the canvas. You want both to act as individual items to add to your overall interior design. 

 Aquarell Print by Wassily Kandinsky

5. Picture it!

Finally, visualise the art in your chosen space, trust your gut and go for it. Art is a personal choice and if it makes you happy that's what's important.