One Essential Tip For Hanging Pictures

Deciding where to place your pictures is the single most important aspect of hanging your art. Most people hang pictures too high. Perhaps you've had the experience of walking into someone's home and the art looks like it's trying to avoid high water. Art is always better lower than higher. But before you get to the "how" of hanging art, it's important to know "where" to place your art. The answer is simple and may surprise you. Hang your pictures at eye level! Here are the details:

When deciding what is "eye level", keep in mind the average person may not be your height. I'm over six feet tall so when I hang art, I place it at eye level for the average person. This is usually about 60" from the floor.

No matter how large the picture frame, place the center of the art at eye level. When hanging 2 frames (one above the other), take the center of the total height for both pieces and make that eye height. The same goes for groupings. Try to place the center of the grouping at eye level.

Also keep in mind whether you are standing or sitting. The eye level in a hallway is much different that in a living room or dining room. In mostly seated areas lower your art slightly to be closer to a seated eye level.

When hanging your pictures over a mantel or piece of furniture, the eye level rule does not work. Try to place the bottom of the frame approximately 6"-12" above to top of the furniture.  Use the higher number if you have items sitting on the surface, or the lower number if the surface is clear.

Remember that no matter what advice you choose to follow, it's your home and your personal style. When in doubt, always do what you think looks best! If you have questions or need help, contact Reed at Masten Fine Framing & Gifts. He can provide you with answers to all your framing questions.

Texture For Extra Pleasure!

Color is not the only way to create drama and interest in a room. Using pattern and texture can enhance color or bring a visual and tactile interest to a monochromatic living space. This really is much easier than it might seem. By interspersing a few patterned or textured items you can transform your space.

Monochromatic Patterns & Textures

 

The living area in the above photo has a magnificent black and white patterned sideboard that serves as the focal point of the room. It is enhanced by several other contrasting textural items; a velveteen sofa with patterned pillows, two patterned upholstered chairs, a tufted center ottoman and decorative accent pieces. Even though the patterns contrast with each other, they work together to add visual interest to neutral colors creating a dynamic and formal atmosphere.

Vibrant Color + Texture

Combine color and texture for an eclectic contemporary feel. This dining area uses contrasting traditional patterns on a variety of surfaces which, when combined, make this room playful and fun. Again, the patterns and textures compliment each other without matching. Using compatible color schemes is the key. The wall covering and rug compliment the leaded windows. The colorful yellow benches and black and white damask table runner add drama to the look. Finally, the chandelier truly marries the concept of traditional and contemporary.

Casual Texture in the Kitchen

A combination of different surface materials and textures creates a casual look in this modern and functional kitchen. The light toned wall tile and granite work island contrast the dark hardwood floor, cabinetry and appliances. The gold sink and light fixtures warm the look while the bold striped floor runner ties the color scheme together nicely.

Relax with Texture

This sumptuous room was created using multiple textural elements. The neutral colors and soft surfaces enhance the relaxed feel while the bold wall pattern adds structure and architecture. The pink ottoman and the animal print rug add color and prevent the room from being too monochromatic. The mirror above the bed adds depth and reflects the gorgeous chandelier. This bedroom invites curling up with a good book and a hot cup of tea!

Masten Fine Framing & Gifts can offer design tips as well as decorative accents and custom framing to provide you with everything you need to create an extraordinary living space of your own. Call us at 303.832.6565 or come in for a visit!  Click HERE to find us on Facebook!