What to Consider When Hanging Art Above a Fireplace
Hanging art above a fireplace is a stylish way to add character to your living space, but it requires thoughtful planning. This guide will take you through a few key design principles to remember when hanging art above the fireplace. Wondering if you should hang art above the fireplace? Not sure how high to position it? Check out our guide for answers to these questions and more.
1. Size and Proportion Matter
When choosing artwork above the fireplace, it’s important to get the size right, but it’s not rocket science. Generally, the art should be about two-thirds the width of your mantel. That way, it creates balance and doesn’t feel too big or too tiny for the space. If it’s a little off, don’t stress—sometimes breaking the rules makes the best statement!
But remember, it’s all about visual balance. If your mantel is small and delicate, an oversized painting might feel like it’s taking over. In large, open rooms with wide mantels, bolder, larger pieces help anchor the space.
2. Perfect Positioning is Key
One of the most common mistakes when hanging pictures above a fireplace is placing them too high. You want to make sure it’s easy to admire, not something you have to tilt your head way back to see! A good rule is to keep the centre of the artwork at eye level when you’re standing. However, if the mantel itself is high, you can use your discretion — just make sure it feels connected to the fireplace, not floating above it awkwardly.
And if you’re feeling casual, you don’t even have to hang it. Leaning the artwork against the wall on the mantel can give a relaxed, chic look that’s super easy to rearrange whenever you feel like mixing things up.
3. Complement the Room’s Style
Your wall art above the fireplace should blend with the room’s style and colour palette. Bold and colourful art might look fantastic in a modern space, adding a vibrant touch. In contrast, a neutral or minimal room might benefit from softer tones or classic artwork. It’s all about creating a harmonious look.
Think about the art’s frame as well. A rustic wooden frame may work better in a cosy, country-style room, while sleek, black or metallic frames might suit more contemporary settings. If you’re into mixing styles, go for it! Art is a personal expression, so don’t be afraid to experiment.
4. Choose the Right Type of Art
When deciding what to put above a fireplace, you’ve got tons of options. You could go for a single large painting, a collection of smaller pieces, or even a mirror to bounce light around the room. Mirrors are especially great if your room feels a little dark or needs more depth.
If you love variety, why not create a gallery wall? Mixing different types of art and photo frames can make a striking and dynamic statement. Just make sure there’s some thread of cohesion—whether it’s colour, theme, or frame style—so it doesn’t feel too chaotic.
5. Mantel Decor and Surroundings
Your mantel is prime real estate for décor, but keep in mind that less is more when you’ve got art above it. A few simple items, like candles, small sculptures, or vases, can complement your artwork above the fireplace without stealing the show. Just be careful not to overcrowd the space, or the art might get lost in the shuffle.
Balance is key. Try to keep items lower than the artwork so that the eye naturally flows from the mantel up to the art. Symmetry works well for traditional spaces, while a more asymmetrical arrangement can add interest in modern settings.
6. Lighting Considerations
Lighting can make or break your pictures above the fireplace. If your fireplace is the focal point of the room, make sure it’s well-lit. A dimly lit masterpiece is a missed opportunity! A dedicated picture light or a pair of sconces on either side of the artwork can do wonders for making the art pop.
But be careful about glare. If your artwork is framed behind glass, avoid placing it where the sun hits directly, unless you love looking at your reflection more than the art itself! Opt for non-glare glass or reposition the lighting to reduce reflections.
7. Proportion to Room and Fireplace Size
Last but not least, the scale of both your room and fireplace should guide your decision about what to put above a fireplace. In a cosy room with a small mantel, oversized artwork might feel overwhelming, while in a large, open space, something too small might look a bit lonely. Find the sweet spot that fits the room’s scale and draws the eye up without overpowering the fireplace.
If you’re unsure, a good trick is to cut out a piece of paper the size of your artwork and tape it to the wall to see how it looks before committing. This way, you can get a feel for how the size will work without lifting a finger—or a frame.
Choose Grade A Frames To Elevate Your Fireplace!
Hanging art above a fireplace doesn’t have to be complicated, and it certainly shouldn’t be stressful. Just remember to keep balance, size, and lighting in mind, and let your personal style shine. Whether you go bold with colour, play it safe with neutrals, or mix it up with a gallery wall, your artwork above the fireplace should be a reflection of you and the heart of your home. Happy decorating!
At Grade A Frames, you can explore a variety of picture frames online, along with more helpful tips to ensure you get the most out of your wall art!
