What Size Artwork Should You Hang Above Your Sofa?
Choosing the right size artwork to hang above your sofa can completely change how your living space feels. Too small, and the wall looks unfinished. Too large, and the artwork can overwhelm the room. The good news is that there are clear, proven guidelines you can follow to get it right every time.
Whether you are deciding between a large original abstract canvas, a limited edition fine art print, or a gallery wall, this guide will help you choose the right artwork size with confidence.
Start With This Rule: Artwork Width vs Sofa Width
Interior stylists consistently recommend that artwork above a sofa should measure between 60% and 75% of the sofa’s width. This proportion creates balance and ensures the artwork feels connected to the furniture beneath it.
For reference:
180 cm sofa → artwork width of 110–135 cm
200 cm sofa → artwork width of 120–150 cm
240 cm sofa → artwork width of 145–180 cm
If you are ever unsure, it is usually better to go slightly larger rather than smaller.
How High Should Artwork Be Hung Above a Sofa?
Height is just as important as width. The bottom edge of your artwork should sit 15–25 cm above the back of the sofa. Hanging artwork too high is one of the most common mistakes and can make the space feel disconnected.
As a general rule, the centre of the artwork should sit around eye level when seated, not standing.
One Large Artwork or Multiple Pieces?
One Large Artwork: Clean and Confident
A single large artwork above a sofa creates a calm, intentional focal point and works especially well in modern interiors.
Typical sizes that work well include:
100 × 100 cm
120 × 90 cm
140 × 100 cm
Large originals are particularly effective here. A statement original abstract canvas instantly grounds the space and removes the need for additional wall styling.
You can explore suitable options in my collection of original abstract canvas paintings here:
Gallery Walls: Flexible and Expressive
A gallery wall is a great option if you enjoy variety or want a softer visual rhythm. The key is to think of the gallery wall as one combined shape.
The total width should still equal 60–75% of the sofa
Keep spacing between frames consistent (around 5–7 cm)
Stick to a cohesive colour palette
My gallery wall print sets, such as this pairing of Midnight and Denim, are designed to work together above sofas.
Horizontal vs Vertical Artwork Shapes
Horizontal Artwork
Horizontal artwork mirrors the shape of a sofa and is the easiest option above wide seating.
Ideal for standard and large sofas
Creates a strong visual anchor across the wall
A wide limited edition abstract print like Midnight works beautifully in this context.
Vertical Artwork
Vertical artwork can work above a sofa when used thoughtfully.
Best paired as two vertical pieces side by side
Works well in rooms with higher ceilings
The key is ensuring the combined width still follows the 60–75% rule.
Choosing Artwork Size by Sofa Type
Small Sofas (140–170 cm)
Artwork width: 85–120 cm
One medium print or two smaller framed works
Standard Sofas (180–210 cm)
Artwork width: 110–150 cm
One large artwork or a balanced gallery wall
Large or Sectional Sofas (220 cm+)
Artwork width: 150–180 cm
Oversized original canvas or a wide multi-piece arrangement
Large works such as Twenty Four or richly textured originals with depth and movement are particularly effective in these spaces.
Colour, Texture and Visual Weight
Scale is not only about measurements. Colour and texture affect how large an artwork feels on the wall.
Dark or high-contrast artwork feels visually heavier
Layered neutrals and textured abstracts feel lighter and more adaptable
If you are working with softer interiors, collections such as blue and green abstract paintings or silver and grey originals integrate seamlessly above sofas without dominating the room.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Choosing artwork that is too small for the sofa
Hanging artwork too high on the wall
Ignoring the sofa width when selecting size
Mixing unrelated styles or colour palettes
When in doubt, choose artwork that feels generous in scale. It almost always looks more intentional.
Final Thoughts
Your sofa anchors your living space, and the artwork above it should feel connected, balanced and considered. By following simple proportion guidelines and choosing artwork that reflects your personal style, you can transform a room without changing any furniture.
If you are deciding between limited edition fine art prints and original abstract canvases, you can explore both options here:
Frequently Asked Questions
How wide should artwork be above a sofa?
Artwork should be between 60% and 75% of the sofa’s width for balanced proportions.
Can you hang two artworks above a sofa?
Yes. Two artworks work well when their combined width follows the same size guideline.
Is a gallery wall better than one large piece?
Neither is better. A single large artwork feels bold and calm, while a gallery wall offers flexibility and movement.
How far above the sofa should art be hung?
The bottom of the artwork should sit 15–25 cm above the back of the sofa.