In most cases, you shouldn’t measure from the ceiling at all. The best practice is to hang artwork based on eye level, not ceiling height. The standard guideline is the “rule of 57”: the center of your artwork should be about 57 inches (145 cm) from the floor, which aligns with average human eye height.
When to Consider the Ceiling
- Low ceilings (under 8 ft): Stick closely to the 57-inch rule so artwork doesn’t feel cramped.
- Tall ceilings (over 9 ft): You may raise artwork slightly (58 to 60 inches to center) so it feels proportionate to the wall height.
- Above furniture: Leave 6 to 12 inches of space between the top of furniture (sofa, headboard, console) and the bottom of the frame, regardless of ceiling height.
Pro Tip with Hanging Systems
If you use a picture hanging rail installed flush with the ceiling, you don’t need to worry about exact ceiling distance. Simply adjust the cables or rods so the center of your picture lands around 57 to 60 inches from the floor. This gives you the flexibility to reposition art anytime without leaving holes in the wall.
✅ Bottom line: Don’t measure down from the ceiling. Measure up from the floor. Aim for the center of your artwork to sit at 57 to 60 inches from the floor for the most natural and balanced look.