A good rule of thumb is to hang artwork so the bottom of the frame sits 6 to 12 inches above the top of the furniture. This creates a visual connection between the piece and the furniture while leaving enough breathing room so the wall doesn’t feel crowded.
Guidelines by Furniture Type
Above a sofa or console
Leave about 8–10 inches between the top of the furniture and the bottom of the frame.
Above a bed headboard
You can go a little higher, around 10–12 inches, for balance with taller furniture.
Above low furniture (bench, credenza)
Around 6–8 inches is often enough.
Additional Tips
Keep the artwork proportional to the furniture. A painting should be about two-thirds the width of the sofa or console beneath it for balance.
Apply the 57-inch rule when possible: even above furniture, try to keep the artwork’s center close to 57 inches from the floor (average eye level).
For gallery walls above furniture, treat the entire arrangement as one composition, with the lowest frame starting about 6–12 inches above.
Pro Tip with Hanging Systems
With an AS Hanging rail system, you can easily fine-tune the height above your furniture without drilling multiple holes. Simply slide the hooks or adjust the cables until the spacing feels just right.
Hang pictures 6 to 12 inches above furniture, keeping the center near eye level and the width proportional to what’s below. This creates a polished, well-balanced look.