Everybody has a default spot where they hang art — above the mantel, behind the sofa, or behind the bed. But there are so many more interesting options. Here are 8 unexpected places to hang art that can transform the overlooked corners of your home.
Washing Up Time Painting by Barrie J Davies
Behind Doors: The Most Overlooked Wall in Your Home
The back of a door is prime real estate most people completely ignore. Smaller paintings, prints, and even tapestries work brilliantly here. It's a great way to add a little surprise — something you only see when the door is closed. A bold piece tucked behind a door feels like a private joke between you and your home.
Take it Easy Painting by Barrie J Davies
Above Kitchen Cabinets
Art above kitchen cabinets instantly adds personality to a room that usually plays it safe. The space up there is crying out for something interesting. A small painting leaning on a counter works just as well — it doesn't need to be hung to make an impact. Keep pieces small-scale and don't be afraid to mix in mirrors or photos for a relaxed, grouped arrangement.
More Fun Painting by Barrie J Davies
Bathroom Walls: Yes, Really
Your bathroom deserves better than bare walls. Art in the bathroom turns a purely functional space into something that actually feels good to be in. The key is protection — keep pieces behind glass and use metal frames rather than wood, which warps with moisture. Printed canvas holds up better than painted canvas in humid conditions.
Brush Your Teeth Painting by Barrie J Davies
Under the Staircase
That awkward triangular space at the base of the stairs is one of the most underused spots in any home. Once the hoover has a proper home elsewhere, this spot is perfect for a small gallery wall. The angle of the staircase actually gives you a natural grid to work with — line pieces up with the slope and it looks intentional rather than accidental.
Whatever Painting by Barrie J Davies
On Bookshelves: Layer It In
Lean small pieces against books or hang them on the back panel of a shelf. It adds depth and breaks up the flat rhythm of a row of spines. You don't need to obsess over the standard 60-inch hanging height here — shelves have their own logic. Tilt a piece slightly, overlap it with objects, let it feel lived-in. Arrange on the floor first before committing to anything. Check out more tips on how to hang original art if you want to get it right.
Deejay Painting by Barrie J Davies
Above the Fireplace — But Not How You Think
Yes, above the mantel is a classic spot — but most people centre one piece and leave it at that. Try off-setting it instead, or build a gallery wall that spills past the edges of the mantel entirely. It feels more contemporary and a lot less predictable. The fireplace becomes part of the composition rather than just a plinth for one painting.
Another Sign Painting by Barrie J Davies
Ceiling Medallions
Hanging art from a ceiling medallion is a proper statement move. It draws the eye up, uses space nobody else is using, and immediately makes a room feel more considered. Keep pieces lightweight and make sure fixings are secure. If you want to go further, ceiling medallions are widely available and easy to work with. Pair with vinyl stickers or relief pieces for a layered effect.
On Window Panes
Hanging art in or around windows is genuinely underrated. A piece hung directly in a window adds privacy without blocking light and creates a brilliant backlit effect. Hanging pieces either side of a window frame draws attention to the natural light source and adds symmetry to the wall. Measure both sides of the frame before you start so the spacing feels balanced rather than accidental. More ideas on how to display your art collection if you want to keep going.
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