Use the 57 “rule to Determine Where to Hang Your Wall Decor.
As a teenager and between the ages of 20 and 20, it was perfectly acceptable to stick posters, photographs or whatever else you wanted to the walls and call it decor. But as you age, your tastes can change, including with regard to art.
Perhaps you want to take your living room to the next level and hang something framed on the wall. Great idea, but where exactly should you hang it? This is where the 57-inch rule comes in. Here’s what you need to know about this design trick, courtesy of Ashley Chalmers of The Spruce .
What is the 57-inch rule?
It turns out that designers and gallery owners often use 57 inches as their standard eye level measurement. Some math has been done at some point, but now – regardless of whether it is still (or ever) the average of the human eye – this is just one of those industry standards that remain.
In case it wasn’t clear at this point, the 57 “rule dictates that wall art and decor should be hung 57” from the ground. Here’s how Christy Kohut, artist and founder of Hapi Art , explained this to The Spruce :
“The 57” rule is a great standard for hanging art. This means the center of the pattern should be 57 inches from the ground and helps align the pattern at eye level. When used throughout the home, it can create balance and harmony in an art collection. “
Not only do interior designers use it when decorating a client’s home, art galleries and museums often use the 57-inch rule as well.
How to use the 57 inch rule
While this decorating strategy is simple, Chalmers says there are a few things to know when using it:
- If this is your first time hanging something on a wall, the 57-inch rule gives you where to start.
- The “rule” is actually quite flexible and can be used as a basis as well. Plus, it’s not possible to hang wall art on all types of walls, so sometimes you have to work with what you have, even if that means breaking the 57-inch rule.
- Building a gallery wall? Use a 57 ” ruler to place part of the anchor and then line up the rest of the collection around it.
- Consider the size of the artwork in relation to the size of the room. Smaller items can often be hung below 57 inches and fit right inside.