How High to Hang Art Above Console Table: Tips for Finding the Ideal Position

A gallery wall hangs above a console table for a unique statement.

Ever look at a blank wall above a console table and think, what if? What if that space could tell a story, set a mood, or even become a canvas for your personal expression? When it comes to interior design, the art of placing art is not just about filling gaps—it’s about making statements and defying the ordinary. 

Choosing the right height to hang art above a console table might seem like a minor detail, but get it right, transforming the space from blah to breathtaking. Why settle for standard when you can aim for stunning? Let’s dive into how to break the rules stylishly, ensuring your art does more than just hang around—it captivates.

Why Is It So Important to Find the Perfect Height for Your Art?

Think about the last time a piece of art caught your eye. Was it just hanging there, or was it singing from the wall? The height at which art is placed can dramatically affect how we interact with it. Hang it too high, and it disconnects from its surroundings, floating without anchor. Too low, it clashes with furniture, becoming a visual obstacle rather than a delight. 

Finding that sweet spot where art meets the eye can enhance visual balance, invite engagement, and really tie a room together. But isn’t there more to it than just measurements and methods? How can you make sure your art not only fits into the space but also speaks out and draws in?

How High to Hang Art Above a Console Table: Step-by-Step

Transforming a bland wall into a stunning display involves a bit of precision and a lot of style. Let's dive into the steps that will ensure your artwork not only hangs but also sings:

Step 1: Measure the Height of the Console Table

First things first, grab your tape measure and get the exact height of your console table. This measurement is your anchor point, the base from which everything else will flow. It sets the literal groundwork for the visual symphony you're about to create.

Step 2: Determine Eye Level

Typically, the center of most artwork should align with the average eye level, around 57 inches from the floor. However, who's to say what's average in your home? Adjust this height based on who will be enjoying the art most often. 

Is your space a bustling family hub or perhaps a serene retreat for taller-than-average adults? Customize this measurement to fit the viewers' eye levels, making the viewing experience both natural and impactful.

Step 3: Calculate Hanging Height

Here’s where it gets artsy. With your eye-level mark as a guide, consider the size of the artwork. The center of the piece should ideally be at eye level. However, if your artwork is particularly tall, you might want to hang it so that the top two-thirds of the piece is more in line with eye level. 

This adjustment ensures that the artwork interacts seamlessly with its viewers, neither towering over them nor making them stoop to get a better look.

Step 4: Adjust for Art Size

Larger artworks command presence and often need a little more room to breathe, so consider hanging them slightly lower than smaller pieces. This placement helps maintain the artwork's relationship with the furniture below it, particularly the console table, ensuring the art doesn't appear to be floating aimlessly.

What Type of Art Should You Hang Above a Console Table?

Choosing the perfect piece of art to hang above your console table can dramatically alter the room's ambiance. Here's how to select art that complements your space and expresses your style:

Framed Prints

There’s nothing quite like a framed print to add a touch of sophistication to any space. When selecting a framed piece, consider the frame as much as the painting itself. The frame should enhance the artwork, bringing out its colors and textures without overpowering it. A well-chosen frame acts like a spotlight, drawing eyes directly to the masterpiece.

Photographs

Photographs can instantly personalize a space, telling a story or capturing a moment. When choosing photographs, think about what story you want to tell. Do you prefer a dramatic black-and-white cityscape, a vibrant, sprawling landscape, or intimate portraits? Photographs should resonate with the other elements in your room, creating a cohesive narrative that enhances the overall décor.

Canvas Art

Canvas art brings a modern edge to any space with both frameless designs and the option for framed canvases. Its textured surface is perfect for adding a pop of color or making a bold statement. Canvas art thrives in contemporary settings and is particularly effective in rooms bathed in natural light, as the absence of glass in frameless options eliminates glare, allowing the artwork to shine in various lighting conditions. Choosing a framed canvas can enhance the art’s presence, offering a sleek, polished look that complements any decor.

Mixed Media Art

Mixed media art prints are a perfect choice for those who adore layers and textures. These prints blend different visual elements—like ink, paint, and digital effects—into one cohesive piece. The fusion of these techniques creates intriguing, complex visuals that captivate and draw the viewer in for a closer look. 

Mixed media art prints are particularly effective for adding depth and visual interest to any space, turning your wall into a focal point that sparks conversation and admiration.

How High Should the Frame Be Above the Console Table?

You can create a cohesive and harmonious display once you figure out the ideal height for the frame above your console table. This placement affects how the artwork relates to the furniture below and influences the overall balance of your space.

The Ideal Gap

The general rule of thumb is to leave about 4-6 inches between the top of the console table and the bottom of the frame. This gap creates a visual connection between the artwork and the table, making them appear as a unified arrangement rather than disjointed pieces. However, the rule can be flexible based on the scale of the artwork and the wall.

Large Artworks

Consider lowering the artwork slightly for larger pieces to maintain a proportional balance. Large frames can dominate a wall, so positioning them just right ensures they enhance rather than overwhelm the space.

Visual Alignment

Align the artwork so that it centers with the console table below, maintaining symmetry and balance. This alignment helps to anchor the artwork visually and makes the display look intentional and well-thought-out.

Adjusting for Ceiling Height

Consider the height of your ceiling when deciding on the placement. Higher ceilings might allow for a slightly larger gap, while lower ceilings might benefit from a tighter arrangement to avoid making the space feel cramped.

What if You Have to Hang a Large Wall Art?

Hanging large wall art above a console table can be a bold design choice that makes a stunning impact in a room. Here are some things to think about:

Visual Balance

With large pieces, consider the proportion of the artwork in relation to the console table and the wall. The artwork should not extend beyond the length of the console table by too much—try to keep the edges of the artwork within the boundaries of the console table's width to maintain a balanced look.

Lower Placement

Because of their size, large artworks often need to be hung lower than smaller pieces to keep them at eye level. This placement also helps integrate the artwork with the furnishings, creating a unified look rather than having the piece float high above the furniture.

Impact on Room Aesthetics

Large artworks can dominate a room, so choose a piece that complements the room's decor style and color scheme. The artwork should enhance the space without clashing with other design elements.

Is it Possible to Hang Multiple Pieces Above the Console Table?

Absolutely! Arranging multiple art pieces above a console table can create a dynamic and visually engaging gallery wall. This approach allows for personal expression and can be tailored to fit any style or space. Here’s how to achieve a harmonious and chic display with multiple artworks:

Planning Your Layout

Start by laying out your pieces on the floor or using paper templates on the wall to experiment with different arrangements. Consider a symmetrical layout for a more formal look or an asymmetrical arrangement for a modern, eclectic vibe. Ensure there is enough space between each piece to prevent the display from feeling cluttered.

Maintaining Visual Balance

When hanging multiple pieces, think of them as a single unit. The center of the entire arrangement should align with eye level, similar to hanging a single large piece. This central alignment helps to anchor the display and keeps it looking balanced.

Cohesive Elements

To tie the pieces together, look for common elements that can act as a unifying factor. This might be a consistent color scheme, frame style, or subject matter. These elements will help the individual pieces flow together as a cohesive whole.

Flexible Arrangements

The beauty of a gallery wall is that it’s easily adjustable. Don’t be afraid to switch out artworks or rearrange pieces as your collection grows or your tastes change. This flexibility makes it easy to keep the display fresh and exciting.

To further simplify the process of creating your perfect gallery wall, consider using the Artfully Walls Wall Designer tool. This online tool lets you visualize and plan your art arrangement digitally before making any holes in your wall. Experiment with different layouts, adjust the spacing and see how different pieces look together, all from the comfort of your computer.

Ready to Start Hanging Your Art Above the Console Table?

Now that we've walked through the ins and outs of hanging art above your console table, are you feeling inspired to transform that space into your own personal gallery? With the steps we've outlined, from choosing the right type of art to pinpointing the perfect hanging height, you're well-equipped to make a statement that reflects your unique style. 

It’s all about creating a look that feels right for you and your home. So grab your tools, select your art, and start hanging! Whether you opt for a dramatic large piece, a charming series of photographs, or an eclectic mix of styles, the art you choose is bound to add personality and flair to your room. Ready to see how a thoughtfully curated art display can transform your space and impress your guests? Let’s make it happen!

FAQ Section

What's the ideal eye-level height for art?

The general rule is to hang the center of the artwork at about 57 inches from the floor, which is considered average eye level. However, adjust this based on the heights of the primary viewers in your home for a personalized viewing experience.

How do you choose suitable art for a console table?

Consider the style of the room and the console table itself. Aim for art that complements or subtly contrasts with the existing decor. Think about the mood you want to set: serene, vibrant, thoughtful, or playful. Also, ensure the artwork's size is proportional to the console table to maintain balance.

What if the console table has varying heights?

If your console table has an uneven profile or includes shelves at different levels, focus on the most prominent or highest section for your art placement. This approach helps create a visual anchor and keeps the display coherent.

How do you account for different art sizes and shapes?

Consider arranging smaller pieces into a gallery wall to create a cohesive look for varied art sizes and shapes. Find a common element for different shapes, like color, frame style, or theme, to unify the pieces.

How do you ensure the art is centered correctly?

Measure the length of the console table and use it as a guide to center your artwork directly above it. Use a level tool when placing the artwork to ensure it’s perfectly horizontal. This keeps the display balanced and aesthetically pleasing.

What if the console table is part of a gallery wall?

If your console table is part of a larger gallery wall, treat the area above the console as a focal point within the larger display. Choose a standout piece for above the console and arrange other artworks around it in a way that supports but doesn’t overpower the main piece.

Art included: Shift 2 by Ashleigh Ninos, Pastoral 14 by Katie Ré Scheidt, Portrait of a Young Woman by Philine van der Vegte, Juliet on Stage by Michael Doyle, Untitled by Anna Ullman, Kindred by Beth Billups

Published on: May 09, 2024 Modified on: May 08, 2024 By: Artfully Walls

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