How to Hang Pictures Above Your Bed?
A Complete Guide
Calming artworks can often work well above beds.
Hanging artwork above your bed is one of the easiest ways to elevate your bedroom design and create a focal point. Whether you’re aiming for symmetry, softness, or serenity, thoughtful placement and proper installation are key. This guide will walk you through the essentials of how to hang pictures above your bed, including safety tips and layout inspiration.
Choose the Right Artwork
Size matters. The art should be proportional to the width of your bed or headboard.
For a queen size bed (about 152cm wide), artwork or a grouping should be around 100 - 115cm wide.
Go for one large piece, a horizontal diptych, or a symmetrical gallery arrangement.
Select calming or personal imagery, think abstract art, landscapes, or black and white photography.
Consider the rooms asthetics
Choose Bold for Above the bed, Soothing for Opposite it
Place brighter, bolder pieces above the bed to create a striking focal point. Because you can’t see this artwork while lying down, it won’t interfere with your ability to relax. On the opposite wall, consider calmer, more soothing artwork, perfect for promoting rest and tranquility.
Match Frames with Furniture
If your bed has a noticeable or decorative frame, try to match the material or colour of your picture frames. This creates visual harmony and makes the room feel more thoughtfully designed.
Keep Series Cohesion
When hanging a series, diptych, or triptych, make sure the pieces share a common theme, such as a unified colour palette, artistic style, or subject matter. This helps maintain visual flow and avoids clutter.
Consider Your Lighting
In many bedrooms, bedside lamps double as art lighting. Choose lighting that complements your artwork, warm tones for paintings, cool tones for black and white photography, and ensure the light is positioned to avoid glare while still functioning well as reading lighting.
Should I Hang A Mirror Above My Bed?
Mirrors are a classic statement piece above beds.
Hanging a mirror above your bed is a timeless way to enhance both style and function. A uniquely shaped or beautifully framed mirror can act as a statement piece while tying together design elements from across the room. Mirrors also reflect natural light, making your bedroom feel larger, brighter, and more open.
Types of Mirror
The style of your bedroom and bed furnishings might dictate the size and style of mirror you choose, Below are some mirror options:
Round Mirrors
Round mirrors soften the angular lines of headboards and frames, creating a balanced, calming focal point. Suits Scandinavian, bohemian, or soft modern interiors and helps reflect ambient light without feeling too rigid.
Arched Mirrors
An arched mirror adds architectural interest and visual height. It draws the eye upward and gives a sense of grandeur without overwhelming the space. Great for: Traditional, French country, or eclectic bedrooms
Sunburst or Decorative Mirrors
These act as artwork in themselves. With sculptural frames in metal, wood, or rattan, sunburst mirrors create a bold statement. Great for: Mid-century modern, glam, or vintage-inspired spaces
Rectangular Mirrors (Landscape or Portrait)
Clean and versatile, rectangular mirrors can be hung vertically for elegance or horizontally for width and balance. Great for: Minimalist, transitional, or contemporary bedrooms
Frameless or Beveled Mirrors
For a subtle, modern look, a frameless or beveled-edge mirror adds depth without drawing too much attention. Great for: Small bedrooms or rooms where you want the mirror to "disappear"
Antique or Vintage Mirrors
Add character with patinated glass, carved wood, or ornate detailing. These mirrors bring texture and history to the space. Great for: Rustic, vintage, or heritage-style interiors
Be mindful of what will be reflected soft lighting, artwork, or greenery are ideal. Avoid placing mirrors where they reflect clutter or direct artificial light into your eyes.
Measure and Plan the Placement
Hang the bottom edge of the artwork 15 to 30cm above the headboard. This keeps it close enough to feel connected but not cramped.
If you’re hanging multiple frames (gallery style), leave 5 - 7 cm of spacing between each piece.
Center the artwork with the bed, not the wall, for visual balance.
Use the Right Hanging Hardware
Safety is especially important when hanging artwork over a bed.
Use wall anchors or plugs for drywall, and masonry anchors for concrete or brick walls.
For large or heavy pieces (especially mirrors or framed glass), use security hooks, French cleats, or multiple screws.
Always use a level or laser level to keep your alignment straight.
You can find out more about different hanging techniques in our blog post:
Black and white photographs can be well suited to go above your bed.
Mock It Up First
Before drilling, use painter’s tape or paper templates to test your layout. This helps you visualise height and spacing without damaging the wall. A piece of tape representing each corner and one at the middle of every side should give you are rough size and shape of the picture you would like to hang.
Is it possible to hang works myself?
While it’s certainly possible to hang artwork yourself, bedrooms require particular care, especially when placing pieces above beds, where safety is a top priority. Choosing a professional picture hanging service ensures your artwork is installed securely and with precision, giving you peace of mind. In addition to safe installation, an experienced art hanging specialist can also offer design advice, helping you position and style your artwork to enhance the space and bring out the full potential of your bedroom’s aesthetic.
Want It Done Professionally?
At Gilbert Art Services, we offer expert picture hanging for homes, including:
Safe and secure installations above beds and headboards
Laser guided precision for perfect alignment
Hanging on all wall types: plaster, drywall, brick, concrete
Advice on artwork placement and layout
Friendly, discreet service with zero damage to your walls
Book Your Expert Hanging Service Today!
Whether it's one statement piece, an antique mirror or a full bedroom gallery wall, trust the professionals at Gilbert Art Services to hang it safely and beautifully.
✉️ : info@gilbertartservices.com
