How To Hang Art Above Your Bed

When planning the layout of your bedroom, your bed will become the focal point of the room. A great way to stylishly highlight this is by hanging art above your bed. Since this will set the tone for your bedroom, you want to make sure you are creating a space that accurately reflects your tastes, while staying functional and safe. There are a number of aspects to consider when choosing, placing and hanging pictures above your bed.

Is It Safe To Hang Art Above Your Bed?

With the correct placement and equipment, you can safely hang almost any art above your bed. However, you must take into account the weight of the piece you have chosen, the size of your art and its location in relation to the bed or headboard and anything else that might cause an obstruction. This could be lights, hanging fans or low-slung ceilings.

Other safety aspects to take into account when decorating the wall above your bed will be any sharp edges. Placing these pieces high enough will prevent you bumping your head on your prized artwork every time you get out of bed. 

Most important is that your pictures are securely fastened to the wall.

Should You Hang Paintings Above Your Bed?

By nature of the space, the wall above your bed will likely be bare. So, there is no reason you should not hang pictures above your bed. In fact, this is a great way to display some of your collection in an interesting and stylish way, elevating the feel of your bedrooms or your guest room. Your bedroom is the best place to play around with what you may like, and the possibilities for decorating the wall above your bed are almost endless. This is especially true if you use the expertise and skills of a professional hanging service who will see the potential of your space both artistically and practically. 

What Kind Of Art Should Go Above Your Bed?

A professional art hanging service will be able to advise you on what will look best above your bed, as well as what is viable in terms of the space and safety of your bedroom. 

Paintings & Artworks

If you are opting for a painting or sketch a popular option is a long, linear landscape or abstract art piece. Alternatively, a grouping of two or more smaller pieces to create a line of symmetrical artwork is also an option. A similar effect can be achieved using photographs or prints. Most commonly, paintings or photos placed above a bed will be framed. In the case of multiple pieces together, a clean and sophisticated look is achieved by using identical frames. 

Mirrors

Using a mirror is another idea to decorate the wall above your bed. A uniquely shaped or interestingly framed mirror can tie together elements in your bedroom design, while also making your room appear bigger and more airy. It is important to take note of what will be reflected in your mirror, particularly when it comes to lighting.

Sizing your artwork will vary according to the space. Some designers swear by the idea that it looks best if your art - whether one piece or multiple - is at least two thirds of the width of your bed. However, one single smaller piece can also add to your room in an unexpected way. There is no right answer as to how wide your chosen art piece should be, but generally it is recommended to ensure it is not wider than the bed itself.

How High Should You Hang Art Above Your Bed?

When deciding how high to hang your art above your bed, there are two factors to consider.

First, from a safety point of view you must ensure there is enough space between your pictures and the end of your bed or headboard. For the best safety, if you have a headboard it is recommended you leave at least a hand’s length, or around 20cm between the bottom of your picture and your headboard. 

Second, aesthetically you want to make sure there is breathing room between the artwork and your bed, as well as the artwork and your ceiling. This means your artwork will not always be right in the middle of your wall. In fact it will vary entirely on the height of your ceilings, the size of your bed and the size of the piece you are hanging. After you have mapped out how much to leave at the bottom of your artwork for safety purposes, if your art is too close to the ceiling or cornice, that could be a sign that the piece you have chosen is too large for the space.

Tips For Hanging Art In Your Bedroom

  • If you have them, hang brighter, bold pieces above your bed. This elevates your room while maintaining a calm area for you to unwind, simply by the fact that when you are on or in your bed, you won’t see what is above your bed. Place calmer, more soothing pieces on the walls opposite your bed.

  • If your bed frame is noticeable, try matching the frame of your artwork or mirror as closely as possible to the frame of your bed. This ties everything into one theme.

  • If you are hanging a series or triptyque, make sure they share common elements. A similar design, colour scheme or subject matter will help create uniformity in your chosen pieces. 

  • Pay close attention to your bedside lighting. In many bedrooms, bedside lamps also serve as the lighting for your artwork. Make sure the lighting you choose accentuates your artwork while remaining functional as bedside lighting.

Can I Hang Art On My Bedroom Wall On My Own?

While it is possible to hang pieces yourself, in your bedroom where safety is a big priority, making use of a professional picture hanging service will ensure the job is done efficiently and safely. A good professional art hanging service will also be able to provide design advice, allowing you to get the best out of your space and art choices. 

Choosing A Picture Hanging Service

For the best ideas on how to hang pictures above your bed, Seido Art Services operating in London and surrounding areas will use their expertise and skill to ensure your bedroom looks tasteful, and stays safe so that you can enjoy many restful nights in your bed. Read why you need to hire a professional picture hanging service and how to hand a gallery wall.

Will ODonnell