UNEXPECTED PLACES TO HANG ART (That Makes Your Home Unique and Actually Look Good)
There is just a different type of joy in doing something unexpected.
The element of surprise brings great pleasure to us humans. It shoots up the dopamine. And that means good mood and less stress. And hanging your art collection in unconventional ways, in unexpected places, can actually do that!
Now, the museum rule of hanging art is a classic—and a must to implement if you have a big wall and a big piece to adorn it with. But if, like me, you’ve run out of wall space, or you have a lot of small pieces in your collection, and are bored of the gallery wall (or don’t have the space for one… or maybe you’ve already done a gallery wall—definitely don’t need more than one), here are some unexpected and delightfully playful ways to revive the romance with your art collection.
IN FRONT OF A BOOKSHELF
This is a great way to bring more attention to a small piece of artwork. For emphasis, use a chunky frame. I just love the effect the layering creates.
IN THE BATHROOM
Yes, the bathroom is a utilitarian space and many people don’t think about decorating it—but I’m of a different opinion. It’s the space where you get ready for the day. And since it’s a space where you’re alone with yourself, many people plan out their day there—and some even come up with their best ideas. So why not make the surroundings a bit more inspiring?
Check out how I turn a boring builder-beige bathroom into an inspiring ‘thinking room’
ON THE KITCHEN COUNTER
Another functional space that’s often not considered a space for art display. But we spend so much of our lives cooking—so why not make this space a bit more inspiring too? I’m sure leaning some of your favorite pieces that bring you joy against the backsplash on your kitchen counter will make prepping meals more enjoyable.
INSIDE A BOOKSHELF OR CABINET
If your bookshelves are more about displaying your collection of knick-knacks along with books, why not take it to the next level and inject life with a piece of artwork? You can just lean a piece or hang it up.
IN THE WINDOW
Now, this might not work for every situation—but if you need a little privacy without blocking all the natural lighter you have run out of wall space or you just doing unsual things, this is such a fun way to bring so much joy!
ABOVE THE WINDOW
Now this placement completely breaks the rule of hanging art at eye level. But here the context is really different—the art is hung in reference to the window frame. Notice how the art is not way above the window frame (just like you would hang art above furniture), so they look like they’re one package.
Also, the goal of doing this is to fill that empty space between the window frame and the curtain rod. Many people feel that the empty space will look awkward and therefore choose to place their curtain rods right above the window frame—but that cuts off the height of the room. Instead, do this to fill the void and maintain the illusion of height.
Read this post for the dos and don’ts of hanging art the traditional way
You’ll be surprised how much a piece can shine based on placement alone. We know that art is the soul of a room, so what could be better than seeing it everywhere you look? These unconventional ways of displaying your collection will fill your home with even more personality—and they’ll definitely spark conversation when you have company over.
Comment and tell me what’s the most unexpected place you’ve ever hung art?
