Find the perfect wall art size
Choosing the right canvas size can transform your space from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you're looking to create a stunning focal point above your sofa, add warmth to your bedroom, or build a captivating gallery wall, the size of your canvas matters just as much as the image itself.
Let's find your perfect canvas size.
Too small, and your artwork disappears on the wall. Too large, and it overwhelms the room. But get it just right, and your canvas becomes the perfect finishing touch that brings your entire space together.
This guide removes the guesswork from choosing canvas sizes, so you can confidently select the perfect piece for your home.
What you'll learn:
- How to match canvas sizes to your furniture
- The professional 2/3 rule that ensures perfect proportions every time
- Which size works best for each room in your home
- Whether to choose framed or unframed canvases
The 2/3 Rule:
When hanging above furniture—such as a sofa, bed, or console table—your canvas should be approximately 60-75% of the furniture's width. This creates perfect visual balance and prevents your artwork from looking too small or too large.
Portrait canvas sizes
Vertical pictures work in narrow spaces like hallways, staircases, and above console tables, but also complement focal points such as chimney breasts, small/medium living rooms, bedrooms, and offices where their portrait orientation adds height and elegance.
- Strong vertical direction
- Perfect for creating multi-canvas displays like triptychs or vertical gallery arrangements.
- Framed canvases add another 3 cm to overall dimensions
Landscape canvas sizes
Landscape pictures work best above sofas, beds, sideboards, and in hallways where their horizontal format complements wide furniture and creates visual harmony.
- Strong horizontal direction
- Works well in spaces above large furniture
- larger sizes works well as wall fillers
- Framed canvas adds 3 cm to the overall dimensions
Want to fill a small space or create a subtle accent?
Choose 40×55cm
Home offices, hallways, small bedrooms, gallery walls
Need something noticeable but not overwhelming?
Choose 50×70cm
Good for: Dining rooms, above smaller furniture, bedroom feature walls and medium sized living rooms.
Looking for a focal point that commands attention?
Choose 65×90cm
Large walls, above king beds, entryways, open-plan living areas, commercial space
Make a dramatic statement?
Choose 75×105cm
Good for: Large walls, above king sized beds, in hall ways, open-plan living areas and commercial spaces.
Final tips
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When in doubt
- Measure twice, order once - Use painter's tape to map out the size.
- Go bigger - Most people choose too small rather than too large
- Follow the 2/3 rule - It works every time for furniture placement
- Consider your ceiling height - Higher ceilings can handle larger canvases
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Common mistakes to avoid
- Hanging artwork too high (remember: eye level!)
- Choosing a canvas too small for the furniture
- Ignoring room proportions
- Forgetting to account for frame width when choosing framed options
- Not testing the layout before hanging