Hanging a frame may seem trivial, yet it is one of the most common mistakes in interior design. A picture placed too high, too low, or poorly positioned can throw an entire room off balance, even if the artwork itself is beautiful. On the other hand, a well-placed frame can transform an empty wall into a true focal point.
In this article, we’ll look at the essential rule you need to know, and how to adapt it to the most common situations.
The basic rule to remember
The most widely used rule in interior design is simple:
the center of the frame should be positioned about 145 to 155 cm from the floor.
This height corresponds to the natural eye level of a standing person. That’s why it is used in galleries, museums, and well-proportioned interiors.
In practical terms, this means that:
* it’s not the top of the frame that matters
* nor the bottom
* but the visual center of the artwork
This rule prevents the “floating frame” effect, where a picture sits too high on the wall.
Why a frame hung too high throws a room off balance
A frame hung too high often creates a sense of emptiness below it.
The wall feels cut off, cold, and the space loses coherence. Even a beautiful artwork then loses much of its impact.
Conversely, a frame hung too low can create a feeling of heaviness, especially in rooms with high ceilings.
The right height allows the artwork to interact naturally with furniture, space, and light.
Above a sofa, bed, or piece of furniture
When a frame is placed above furniture, the rule changes slightly.
In this case:
* the bottom of the frame should sit between 15 and 25 cm above the furniture
* never touching the furniture
* never placed too far away
The artwork should visually belong to the whole.
If it is too high, it disconnects from the furniture and loses its decorative purpose.
Empty walls and large walls: watch the proportions
On wide or very tall walls, the issue is not just height, but also scale.
A small frame, even if perfectly positioned, can feel lost on a large wall and give an unfinished impression. In this situation, it’s better to choose:
* a larger format
* or a strong, statement piece that confidently fills the space
The height remains the same, but proportions make all the difference.
Should the height vary depending on the room?
Yes, slightly.
In an entryway, you can place the frame a little lower to create a welcoming feeling.
In a bedroom, the height is often influenced by the headboard.
In a living room, alignment with furniture should always be prioritized.
That said, the rule of centering the artwork around 150 cm remains a reliable reference in all cases.
The detail that changes everything
Before drilling, always take the time to:
* place the frame on the floor against the wall
* or temporarily fix it with tape
* then step back and observe
This simple visual test often prevents irreversible mistakes.
In summary
A well-hung frame:
* respects the natural eye line
* connects visually with furniture
* balances the wall without overwhelming it
Height is not a technical detail — it’s an aesthetic choice that completely changes how an interior is perceived.
