Art Buying: A Sizing and Scale Guide
Art Size & Scale Guide
Choosing the right size artwork can completely transform a space. Whether you're styling a quiet reading corner or anchoring a large living room, scale plays a key role in creating that elevated, thoughtfully-designed look.
Smaller pieces—typically under 18 inches—are perfect for intimate spaces like powder rooms, shelves, or cozy nooks. They also work beautifully when grouped into a gallery wall or layered with other objects for that collected, curated feel.
Medium-sized art (between 18 and 36 inches) brings balance and polish to a room. These pieces shine in entryways, bedrooms, or above a console. When hung at eye level, they lend effortless sophistication and help ground the space.
Larger artworks—from 36 to 48 inches—act as refined focal points. They work especially well above a sofa, bed, or fireplace, and should span about two-thirds the width of the furniture below to feel intentional and well-scaled.
These pieces are just too small for the scale of the furniture and the room.
Here are the same pieces in a bigger size. The two pieces both at 36" together cover 2/3 res of the wall. Here are some more examples of well-scaled art.
Oversized pieces (48 inches and up) make a bold, luxurious statement. They’re ideal for open spaces, high ceilings, or feature walls that call for something dramatic. Just remember—larger art needs room to breathe. Give it space and let it anchor the room with presence and clarity.
A few helpful tips: When in doubt, go slightly bigger—undersized pieces can feel unintentional. Use painter’s tape to visualize the dimensions on your wall before hanging, and don’t be afraid to think in pairs or trios for a designer-quality arrangement. The right scale creates a sense of calm, cohesion, and quiet luxury—exactly what timeless interiors are made of.
If you’re unsure which size is right for your space, feel free to reach out—I’m happy to offer guidance. And if you have a specific vision in mind, I also create custom commission pieces tailored to your style, palette, and space. Together, we can bring your ideal artwork to life.