Positioning a Painting Over Your Sofa: A Subtle Art

Hanging a painting above a sofa can transform a living space from ordinary to beautifully balanced. The key lies in proportion, placement, and light.

Start by choosing a work that complements the width of your sofa. As a rule of thumb, the artwork should be around two-thirds the sofa’s length — large enough to anchor the space, yet leaving breathing room at the edges. The centre of the painting is ideally positioned at eye level, roughly 145 cm from the floor, so the composition feels harmonious whether you’re seated or standing.

Natural light plays a quiet but powerful role. Gentle daylight brings colours to life, while avoiding harsh direct sun prevents fading over time. If your sofa sits opposite a window, you’ll enjoy a changing play of light across the surface throughout the day — a living dialogue between space and artwork.

Take a moment to step back once it’s in place. The right piece doesn’t just fill a wall; it creates atmosphere, inviting the room to exhale.

Browse my Original Paintings page to explore some of my paintings