When it comes to interior design, one area that is often overlooked is the space above the sofa. Many of us don’t give it much thought, but this can actually be a prime spot to create a beautiful and impactful feature in your living room. Margaret Lane, an interior designer from Firmdale Interiors, says, “The area above the sofa is like a blank canvas waiting to be filled. It’s the first thing people see when they enter the room, so it should be a reflection of your style and create a visual impact.”
So, how can we turn this overlooked space into something special? Let’s explore seven transformative ways to decorate above your sofa and make it a focal point in your room.
1. Create a gallery wall
Gallery walls have become a popular trend in recent years, and for good reason. They allow you to display a collection of art and photographs in a visually compelling way. You can mix and match different frame styles, sizes, and colors to create a unique and personalized display. Alice Brackets, a designer at Firmdale Interiors, says, “A gallery wall above a sofa adds depth and personality to the space. It’s a great opportunity to showcase your favorite pieces and add a pop of color to the room.”
2. Install shelves
If you’re looking for a more modern and minimalistic look, consider installing shelves above your sofa. This not only adds an extra layer of storage but also gives you the opportunity to display decorative objects, plants, and books. Margaret Lane says, “Shelves are a great way to fill the space above a sofa and create a cohesive design scheme. They add depth and dimension to the room, and you can easily change what’s on display to fit different seasons or trends.”
3. Hang a large-scale artwork
If you’re a fan of statement pieces, hanging a large-scale artwork above your sofa is a great option. It instantly draws attention and creates a focal point in the room. Alice Brackets says, “A large-scale artwork has the strength to fill the space and make a bold statement. Choose something that complements the color scheme of your room and adds visual interest to the walls.”
4. Use a mirror
Mirrors are not only functional but also have the power to visually expand a small room. When hung above a sofa, they can create the illusion of more space and reflect natural light. Margaret Lane says, “A mirror is a versatile piece that can work with any decorating style. It adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the room while serving a practical purpose.”
5. Hang a tapestry or textile
If you’re looking to add texture and warmth to your living room, consider hanging a tapestry or textile above your sofa. This adds a touch of bohemian charm and creates a cozy atmosphere. Alice Brackets says, “A tapestry or textile can instantly transform the look and feel of a room. It adds visual interest and creates a sense of depth, especially when paired with other decorative elements.”
6. Install a decorative feature
If you want to make a bold statement, consider installing a decorative feature above your sofa. This could be anything from a sculptural piece to a unique lighting fixture. Margaret Lane says, “A decorative feature creates a sense of drama and adds instant visual impact to the room. It’s a great way to showcase your personal style and make a statement within your interior design.”
7. Fill the space with plants
If you’re a plant lover, why not bring some greenery into your living room? Hanging plants or installing a vertical garden above your sofa not only adds visual interest but also brings a touch of nature indoors. Alice Brackets says, “Plants have the ability to brighten up a room and create a calming atmosphere. They add life and movement to the space and can be a great way to incorporate color and texture.”
So, whether you choose to create a gallery wall, install shelves, hang a large-scale artwork, use a mirror, hang a tapestry or textile, install a decorative feature, or fill the space with plants, decorating above your sofa can transform your living room into a truly special and visually captivating space. Don’t neglect this blank canvas any longer, and let your creativity shine!
Decorating above a sofa
When it comes to decorating above a sofa, there are countless options to consider. This blank space above your sofa is an opportunity to add depth, color, and style to your living room. Whether you’re looking for a gallery wall, shelves, or a statement piece, there are plenty of ideas to inspire you.
If you’re someone who loves to collect artwork, creating a gallery wall above your sofa is a great way to showcase your favorite pieces. By hanging multiple frames in different sizes and styles, you can create a visually stunning display that adds depth and personality to your space.
Another option is to have a single large piece of art or a statement mirror hanging above your sofa. This creates a focal point and adds visual interest to your room. It’s a simple yet powerful way to make a statement and elevate the overall look and feel of your living space.
If you’re looking for something more unique, consider adding shelves or brackets to the wall behind your sofa. This not only provides a functional space to display decorative objects and books, but it also adds character and charm to your room.
When it comes to color schemes and design trends, there are no hard and fast rules. Margaret Lane, an interior designer, says, “Your choice of artwork, shelving, or statement piece should be based on your personal taste and the overall style of your home.” The key is to find something that speaks to you and complements your existing decor.
In terms of scale, it’s important to consider the size of your sofa and the wall above it. If you have a small sofa, a single small piece of art or a couple of shelves may be enough to fill the space. If you have a larger sofa and a vast empty wall, you can go bold with a large-scale artwork or a combination of shelves and framed pieces.
Alice McDonald, an interior designer, suggests using the wall above your sofa as a feature wall. “By painting the wall a special color or using wallpaper, you can create a beautiful backdrop for your sofa,” she says. This adds depth and creates a sense of cohesion within your living room.
When it comes to design, remember that there are no set rules. Each home is unique and should be decorated in a way that reflects your own personal style. Whether you prefer a modern, minimalist look or a more eclectic vibe, the space above your sofa is an opportunity to showcase your individuality.
So, if you’re looking to decorate above your sofa, consider these ideas and let your creativity take the lead. Whether you choose to create a gallery wall, hang a statement piece, or add shelves, make sure it’s something you love and that adds beauty and personality to your living space.
1 Hang a gallery wall
One popular way to decorate the space above a sofa is to hang a gallery wall. This involves creating a visually appealing arrangement of artwork or photographs on the wall.
Gallery walls can be a great way to add color, texture, and visual interest to the space. They can also be a fun way to display a collection of artwork or family photos. Plus, they can be easily changed and updated as needed.
When hanging a gallery wall, there are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Start by selecting a theme or color scheme for your gallery wall. This will help create a cohesive look and feel.
- Choose artwork or photographs that complement the style and scale of your sofa and the rest of your room’s decor.
- Consider using a mix of frame styles and sizes to add visual interest to the wall.
- Experiment with different arrangements and layouts before hanging the artwork to find the most pleasing arrangement.
- Hang the artwork at eye level or slightly above for the best viewing experience.
If you’re unsure where to start, take inspiration from hotels and Firmdale designer Kit Kemp, who adds display shelves above sofas in her homes.
“Displaying artwork behind your sofa is a great way to create a focal point in your living room,” says Margaret Lane, interior designer at The Cheshire Design Studio.
“It’s also an opportunity to add color and pattern to your space. If you have a moody or dark scheme, having a gallery wall can help to balance the room and add a focal point,” she adds.
Another option is to hang a single large artwork or mirror above the sofa. This can make a strong visual impact and create a sense of scale in the room.
Alice Lane, from Alice Lane Home Collection, agrees “The most impactful way to decorate above your sofa is to hang a large piece of art, a mirror or a gallery wall.”
Whatever style or approach you choose, hanging a gallery wall above your sofa can transform a blank space into a beautiful feature within your living room.
2 Mix art with bespoke joinery
When it comes to decorating the space above your sofa, sometimes a small piece of art just isn’t enough. That’s where bespoke joinery comes in. Designed to fit perfectly behind your sofa, custom-made shelves or cabinets can provide the scale and strength needed to fill the space and make a real impact in your interior design.
“Having a bespoke joinery piece behind the sofa adds another layer of interest and creates a visual feature within the room,” says Margaret Lane, Interior Design Director at Firmdale Hotels. “It’s also a great way to display art or special items.”
If you have a collection of artwork, having shelves or brackets to display them on can be a beautiful way to showcase your pieces. Arrange them in a gallery-style layout for a cohesive look, or mix and match different sizes and styles for a more eclectic feel.
Alice Moody, from Alice Lane Interiors, suggests using bespoke joinery to create a feature wall. “In terms of design trends, we are seeing more and more homes that want to have a ‘wow factor’ feature wall,” she says. “Bespoke joinery is a great way to achieve this. Whether it’s a full wall of shelves or cabinets or just a few strategically placed shelves, it adds depth and character to the space.”
When it comes to color, there’s no need to stick to traditional white or natural wood. “Experiment with different finishes and lacquered colors to make the joinery piece stand out,” says Moody.
Whether you choose a simple shelf or a more intricate cabinet design, mixing art with bespoke joinery is a great way to transform the space above your sofa into a decorative focal point.
3 Use large-scale art to anchor the space above a sofa
When it comes to decorating above a sofa, one of the most impactful and visually stunning options is to use large-scale art. Adding a large piece of art to the space above your sofa can create a focal point in the room and instantly transform the look and feel of the entire space.
Don’t be afraid to go big with your art. Large-scale pieces have the strength and presence to hold their own on a wall and can make a bold statement. The size of the art should be proportionate to the size of your sofa and the room. A general rule of thumb is that the art should be about two-thirds the width of the sofa.
Displaying large-scale art above a sofa is a trend that many interior designers and homeowners are embracing. It adds a touch of modern style and can create a moody, yet beautiful focal point in the room. The key is to choose art that complements the overall design scheme of your home or the specific room where the sofa is placed.
If you’re looking for ideas on how to decorate with large-scale art, take inspiration from some of the most stylish homes, hotels, and gardens. The Firmdale Hotels, for example, are known for their special attention to detail when it comes to art and design. They often incorporate large-scale art into their interiors to create a wow factor.
When it comes to color, large-scale art can be a great way to introduce bold or vibrant hues into a space. Margaret Lane, a renowned interior designer, suggests using large-scale art to add color to a room. In her own words, “Sometimes all you need is one large colorful art piece to create a sense of drama.”
When hanging large-scale art above a sofa, there are a few options to consider. If you have high ceilings, you can hang the art directly on the wall. However, if you have lower ceilings or want to create a more dynamic look, you can use brackets or shelves to frame the art within the space above the sofa.
Alice, an interior design expert, advises that when using shelves to display large-scale art, it’s best to keep the shelves thin and simple so that they don’t overpower the artwork. She says, “The shelves should act as a frame for the art, not as the main design feature.”
In terms of placement, the art should be positioned at eye level, with the center of the piece at around 57-60 inches from the ground. This ensures that the art is easily visible and creates a balanced look in the room.
Adding large-scale art above your sofa is a great way to fill an empty space and create a stunning focal point. Whether you choose a single piece or create a gallery wall, this design approach adds instant impact and visual interest to your living room.
4 Let the view do the talking
If you’re lucky enough to have a modern living room with a great view, why not let it take center stage above your sofa? This decorating idea creates a stunning focal point that draws the eye and adds an element of natural beauty to your space.
There are a few ways you can incorporate the view into your design scheme. One option is to keep the walls around the sofa fairly neutral and let the view speak for itself. This can be done by using a light color palette or even opting for a simple, minimalistic design.
Another option is to use the view as a feature behind the sofa. Many homes today have large windows or glass doors that provide beautiful outdoor views. By positioning your sofa in front of this window or glass door, you can take advantage of the natural scenery and create a unique and visually stunning focal point.
One interior design firm, Firmdale Hotels, often incorporates this idea into their designs. Alice Lane, a designer from the firm, says, “Having a great view behind the sofa will always be a showstopper. It’s a special feature that can instantly elevate the look of any room.”
When it comes to decorating with a view in mind, Margaret, another designer from Firmdale Hotels, suggests filling the space in front of the view with shelves or brackets. This will add some visual interest and allow you to display special items or decorative pieces.
“You don’t want to overcrowd the space, but adding a few carefully chosen shelves or brackets can really enhance the overall look,” Margaret explains. “It gives you the opportunity to add some color or bring in some of the current design trends without overwhelming the view.”
If you don’t have a great view in your living room, you can still create the illusion of one. Margaret suggests using artwork or photographs that depict beautiful landscapes or outdoor scenes.
“Even if you don’t have a view, you can create the feeling of one by placing artwork or photographs behind the sofa,” she says. “Choose pieces that have depth and perspective to create the illusion of looking out onto something special.”
In terms of scale, Margaret recommends selecting pieces that are proportional to the size of your sofa and the space above it. This will ensure that the artwork or photographs don’t overpower the room and distract from the overall design.
Whether you have a stunning view or not, incorporating it into your living room design can have a significant impact. By letting the view do the talking, you can create a focal point that adds something unique and visually appealing to your space.
5 Frame your sofa with built-ins
If you want to create a truly impactful and visually stunning statement above your sofa, consider framing it with built-in shelves or cabinets. This scale of design not only frames the sofa beautifully but also adds extra storage and display space for your favorite books, knick-knacks, and decorative items. Here are some ideas to consider:
- Shelves: Install open shelves on either side of the sofa. These can be simple floating shelves or more substantial built-in units. Fill them with books, plants, and decorative objects to create an eye-catching display.
- Cabinets: Opt for built-in cabinets on either side of the sofa. These can have glass doors to showcase your favorite items or solid doors for a cleaner look. Use these cabinets to store items you don’t want on display, creating a clutter-free living room.
- Gallery wall: Create a gallery wall above the sofa using a combination of artwork and photographs. Mix and match frames in different sizes and colors to add visual interest. This can be a great option for those who want a more eclectic and personalized touch.
- Integrated TV: Incorporate a TV into one of the built-in units. This allows you to enjoy your favorite shows and movies without the TV becoming the main focal point in the room. Hide the TV behind doors when not in use for a sleek and cohesive look.
- Moody color scheme: Paint the built-in units in a moody color to add depth and drama to the space. Dark blues, grays, or even black can create a sophisticated and modern look. Pair this with lighter-colored furniture and accessories to balance the overall aesthetic.
No matter which option you choose, framing your sofa with built-ins will instantly elevate the look of your living room. The added storage and display space will also help keep your space organized and visually appealing. Consider consulting with a professional interior designer for a customized and cohesive design that suits your personal style and the overall aesthetic of your home.
6 Line up a symmetrical display
In terms of visual impact, nothing beats a symmetrical display. It creates a sense of balance and harmony, making it the perfect choice for decorating the space above a sofa.
When it comes to symmetrical displays, the firmdale hotels are experts. Their interior design team knows just how to create a stunning display that adds instant style to any living room.
One idea is to use a pair of shelves or joinery and place them on either side of the sofa. These shelves can be designed to match the style of your sofa or create a contrasting look with modern trends.
Fill the shelves with beautiful objects such as art prints, plants, or decorative items. Each shelf should have a similar arrangement to create a harmonious look.
Another option is to hang a gallery wall above the sofa. You can choose frames of the same size and color, or mix and match for a more eclectic look. Make sure the frames are arranged in a symmetrical pattern to create a cohesive display.
When it comes to symmetry, don’t forget about the space behind the sofa. You can hang a large piece of art or a mirror to create a focal point that complements the display in front.
Alice Lane Home, a renowned interior design firm, recommends using color to create a symmetrical display. Choose a color scheme that matches your room and use it to frame each object on the display.
Having a symmetrical display above your sofa is a great way to create a special feature in your living room. It adds a sense of balance and strength to the space, making it look more cohesive and put-together.
So, if you’re looking to decorate the space above your sofa, consider lining up a symmetrical display. Whether you choose shelves, a gallery wall, or a combination of both, this design idea will transform your blank wall into a stunning focal point.
7 Fill a wall with shelves
If you’re looking to create a focal point above your sofa that’s both functional and visually appealing, consider filling a wall with shelves. This design idea offers plenty of opportunities to display your favorite objects, books, artwork, and more.
Margaret from Alice Lane Interiors says, “Having a wall filled with shelves not only creates a sense of depth and scale in the room, but it also adds a touch of personality and style.”
When it comes to shelf design, there are a few key things to consider. Firstly, you’ll need to decide on the style of shelves that will best complement your living space. You can choose from floating shelves, built-in shelving, or even opt for a combination of different shelf types.
Once you have decided on the style of shelves, think about how you want to arrange them on the wall. You can create a symmetrical gallery wall with equally spaced shelves, or go for a more eclectic look with shelves of different sizes and heights placed at various angles.
Alice Lane Interiors suggests adding a mix of decorative objects, books, plants, and artwork to your shelves to create a visually interesting display. Margaret says, “It’s important to have a balance between items that are visually appealing and those that have sentimental value. This way, you can create a display that is both aesthetically pleasing and personal.”
When it comes to choosing the right accessories for your shelves, there are a few trends to consider. Alice Lane Interiors suggests incorporating greenery and plants into your shelving display to add a touch of freshness and life to the space. Additionally, consider using decorative brackets or frames to give your shelves a more polished and finished look.
In terms of placement, Alice Lane Interiors recommends hanging your shelves within the first 12 to 18 inches above the sofa. This placement ensures that the shelves are within easy reach and visually connected to the seating area, creating a cohesive design.
Whether you have a small living room or a large open-concept space, filling a wall with shelves can have a transformative effect on the overall look and feel of your room. The display of books, objects, and artwork adds a sense of personality and showcases your style. Plus, it provides extra storage space and allows you to keep everything organized and easily accessible.
So, when it comes to decorating above your sofa, don’t overlook the impact that a wall filled with shelves can have. It’s a special way to add visual interest, create a focal point, and give your space a unique and personalized touch.
FAQs
Q: What are some terms to consider when looking to decorate above a sofa?
A: When considering how to decorate above a sofa, it’s important to think about the overall look and feel of the room. Consider the color scheme, style of the furniture, and the scale of the wall space.
Q: What are some ideas for filling the space above a sofa?
A: There are many ways to fill the space above a sofa. Some popular options include hanging artwork or mirrors, creating a gallery wall, adding floating shelves, installing brackets for hanging plants, or placing a large statement piece.
Q: How can I decorate above a sofa to create a visual focal point?
A: One way to create a visual focal point above a sofa is to hang a large piece of artwork or a statement mirror. You can also create a gallery wall or use floating shelves to display a curated collection of items.
Q: What should I consider when choosing artwork or mirrors to hang above a sofa?
A: When choosing artwork or mirrors for above a sofa, consider the size and scale of the wall space. The artwork or mirror should be proportionate to the sofa and the wall. Additionally, consider the style and color scheme of the room to ensure that the piece fits in with the overall design.
Q: Are there any trends or popular styles for decorating above a sofa?
A: There are always new trends and styles when it comes to decorating above a sofa. Some popular options currently include minimalist designs, botanical accents like hanging plants, and vintage or rustic-inspired pieces. Ultimately, the most important thing is to choose something that fits your personal style and complements the rest of your interior design.
Q: How can I create a cohesive look when decorating above a sofa?
A: To create a cohesive look, consider the overall design and color scheme of the room. Choose artwork or decorative pieces that complement the style and color palette of the room. You can also create a theme or visual connection by using similar frames or colors in the display.
Q: What are some tips for displaying shelves above a sofa?
A: When displaying shelves above a sofa, consider the scale of the wall space and the size of your shelves. Avoid overcrowding the shelves and make sure to leave enough empty space to create a visually pleasing display. You can also add decorative elements, such as plants or small art pieces, to add visual interest.
Q: How can I create a gallery wall behind a sofa?
A: To create a gallery wall behind a sofa, start by selecting a variety of artwork or framed photos in different sizes and shapes. Lay them out on the floor to experiment with different arrangements. Once you have a layout you like, use picture-hanging hooks to hang the pieces on the wall. Start with the largest piece in the center and work outward, balancing the sizes and shapes for a visually appealing display.
Q: Are there any specific design ideas for small rooms or rooms with limited wall space above the sofa?
A: If you have a small room or limited wall space above the sofa, consider using floating shelves or narrow ledges to display artwork or decorative items. You can also hang a small mirror or a single statement piece to create a focal point without overwhelming the space.
Should you hang art behind a couch
When it comes to decorating above a sofa, there are several options to consider. One popular choice is hanging art behind the couch. This can add visual interest, create a focal point, and enhance the overall design of the room. But is it the right choice for your space?
The answer depends on your personal style and the look you want to achieve.
If you’re going for a moody and dramatic vibe, hanging art behind the couch can be a beautiful and modern addition. It adds depth and dimension to the space, making it feel more curated and intentional. A large, statement piece or a gallery wall can bring personality to an otherwise blank wall.
On the other hand, if you prefer a clean and minimalistic interior, you may want to skip the art and let the sofa be the star of the show. This creates a more open and airy feel, with the focus on the furniture itself.
Then there’s the practical aspect to consider.
If you have small children or pets, hanging art above the sofa may not be the best idea. There’s always a risk of something falling and causing injury or damage. In this case, it might be better to opt for other decorative elements, such as shelves or plants, that can still add visual interest without the risk.
It’s also important to think about the scale and style of your art.
Large and bold pieces can create a striking impact, while smaller artworks may get lost on the wall. Similarly, the style of the art should complement the overall design of the room. For example, if you have a more traditional or classic interior, opt for framed pieces that match the decor. If your style is more contemporary, consider abstract or modern artworks.
Ultimately, the decision to hang art behind a couch is a matter of personal preference and the specific needs of your space. Whether you choose to have a gallery wall, a single statement piece, or nothing at all, make sure it fits with the overall design scheme and enhances the visual appeal of your living room.
How do you arrange art above a sofa
When it comes to decorating the space above a sofa, there are plenty of options to consider. You can create a visual focal point, add a touch of color, or showcase your personal style. Here are some ideas on how to arrange art above a sofa:
- Gallery wall: Create a gallery wall by arranging a collection of framed artwork or photographs. Mix and match different sizes and frame styles to create a dynamic display.
- Large-scale art: Hang a large-scale artwork above the sofa to make a bold statement. This can be a single oversized piece or a diptych or triptych that spans the width of the sofa.
- Shelves: Install floating shelves above the sofa to display small sculptures, vases, or other decorative objects. This adds depth and visual interest to the wall.
- Special feature: If you have a special piece of art, such as a family heirloom or a favorite painting, consider hanging it above the sofa to create a focal point.
- Mirror: Hang a large mirror above the sofa to create the illusion of more space and reflect light. This can also add depth and visual interest to the room.
- Moody color: If you want to create a more intimate and cozy atmosphere, consider painting the wall behind the sofa a moody color. This will make the art above the sofa stand out and create a dramatic effect.
- Floating brackets: For a more modern and minimalist look, consider using floating brackets to hang artwork above the sofa. This creates the illusion that the art is floating on the wall.
When arranging art above a sofa, it’s important to consider the scale and proportion. The size of the art should be in proportion to the size of the sofa and the wall. If you want to create a cohesive look, consider using artwork that complements the style and color scheme of the room.
In terms of height, the general rule of thumb is to hang artwork at eye level. However, this may vary depending on the overall design of the room and the height of the sofa. If you have high ceilings, you may need to hang the artwork slightly higher to fill the space above the sofa.
When it comes to hanging artwork, Alice Lane Interior Design firm suggests using a simple frame that doesn’t compete with the artwork. Margaret Thatcher, interior designer for Firmdale Hotels, says that when hanging artwork above a sofa, it’s important to create a balanced composition. The artwork should be centered above the sofa and fill the space between the top of the sofa and the bottom of the ceiling.
By following these tips and considering your own personal style and preferences, you can create a stunning display above your sofa that reflects your individual taste and adds visual impact to your living room.