Styling the Space Above Your Queen Bed: Art Size, Ideas & Inspiration

So, you’ve got a queen-size bed and a blank wall staring back at you? Don’t worry, we’ve all been there! This guide will walk you through choosing and hanging the perfect artwork above your queen bed, turning that blank space into a stylish statement. Whether you’re a design newbie or a seasoned pro, we’ll help you create a bedroom that’s both magazine-worthy and uniquely you.

Choosing the Right Size and Style

Want to give your bedroom a serious style upgrade? The right artwork above your bed can make all the difference. It’s the key to transforming your sleep space from drab to fab! But how do you find that perfect piece? It’s all about finding the sweet spot where size, style, and placement come together. For a truly stunning focal point, you might even consider placing art in front of mirror on fireplace mantel above your fireplace for a touch of elegance in another room, or perhaps you need some inspiration for cleverly concealing your art supplies storage?

Sizing Up the Situation

First things first: size. Your headboard is your guide here. A good rule of thumb is to choose artwork that’s roughly two-thirds to three-quarters the width of your headboard. Most queen headboards are around 60 inches wide, so a piece between 36 and 48 inches wide will likely look balanced. Of course, rules are made to be broken! If you adore a larger piece, consider a wider headboard or a statement piece that can hold its own. If a gallery wall is more your style, ensure the total width of all pieces combined stays within those proportions.

Finding Your Style Sweet Spot

Your bedroom is your sanctuary, so the art above your bed should reflect your personality. Think about your room’s overall vibe. Modern and minimalist? Clean lines and bold colors might be your jam. Bohemian haven? Eclectic patterns and rich textures could be the ticket. Don’t forget your color palette! Try incorporating hues from your bedding or wall paint into your artwork. Some experts suggest rotating your artwork seasonally to keep your space feeling fresh, which allows you to explore the subtle effects different artworks might have on your mood – an area of ongoing research.

Budget-Friendly Art: Style Doesn’t Have to Break the Bank

Amazing art doesn’t have to mean emptying your wallet. Online marketplaces like Etsy and Society6 are treasure troves of unique and affordable prints. Feeling crafty? A DIY project can be incredibly rewarding. Even a simple sketch or pressed flowers, framed thoughtfully, can look stunning.

Hanging Your Masterpiece: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you’ve found the perfect piece, let’s get it on the wall!

1. Measure and Mark

Measure twice, hang once! This age-old advice is crucial. Carefully measure both your artwork and the wall space to avoid any hanging mishaps. Mark the center point on your wall directly above your headboard.

2. Securely Mount

The right hanging hardware depends on the artwork’s weight and your wall material. Choose strong and reliable hardware – you don’t want any late-night art crashes! Picture hanging kits are a great option for lighter pieces. For heavier works, you may consult an expert in framing to recommend and execute appropriate hanging hardware.

3. Level and Adjust

Use a level to ensure your artwork is perfectly straight. Step back and admire your work! Don’t be afraid to make minor adjustments until it feels just right. Sometimes a tiny shift can make a world of difference.

Placement Perfection: Height and Positioning

Where you hang your artwork is just as important as what you hang. Aim for 6 to 8 inches of space between the top of your headboard and the bottom of your artwork. This creates breathing room and avoids a cramped feel. This is usually enough space to mitigate any potential damage from bumping the headboard against the art.

Centering the artwork above the headboard creates a balanced and harmonious look. However, asymmetrical placement can add a touch of visual interest, particularly effective in modern or eclectic bedrooms.

Headboard Challenges and Solutions

Different headboards present unique challenges. While various experts suggest these tips, remember that they are not rigid rules, and it should be balanced with your own taste:

Headboard Type Artwork Considerations
Standard Upholstered Standard sizing and placement guidelines usually work well.
Arched Artwork that mimics or contrasts the arch’s curve can create a striking visual effect.
Low Profile A smaller artwork might be a better choice to avoid overwhelming the headboard.
Large & Ornate A larger or bolder piece may be needed to balance the headboard’s visual weight.

High Ceilings: A Special Consideration

If you have ceilings over 9.8 feet, the standard 8-10 inch gap above the headboard may make the artwork appear lost. One solution might be to increase the gap between the artwork’s top and the ceiling to about 7.8 inches, which might make for a more pleasing balance visually from the perspective of a person sitting in the bed.

Gallery Walls: A Curated Collection

Love the gallery wall look? It can absolutely work above your queen bed! The key is maintaining a cohesive style and ensuring the gallery wall’s overall size remains proportionate to your headboard. Play with different sizes and frames, but strive for visual balance.

The Final Touch: Lighting

Lighting plays a significant role in how your artwork is perceived. Natural light is ideal, but consider adding accent lighting. Spotlights or wall sconces can highlight your artwork’s beauty, making it a focal point even at night. Some experts advocate for adjustable lighting so you can experiment and find the perfect illumination for your art piece, no matter the time of day.

Ultimately, choosing artwork is a personal journey. Trust your instincts, break the “rules” if you feel inspired, and choose pieces that speak to you. Your bedroom is your sanctuary; let your artwork transform it into a space you truly love.

Mark Soldy

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