Unexpected Places to Hang Art (That Actually Look Amazing)

Design by Heidi Caillier, Photography by Haris Kenjar

When it comes to hanging art, it’s easy to default to eye-level or gallery wall territory (maybe even a plate wall if you’re feeling adventurous). But some of the most charming placements break those rules entirely, nestled into bookshelves, perched above doorways, or floating solo in the most unexpected corners. These offbeat choices add character, spark curiosity, and make even the smallest piece feel intentional. So if you’ve been craving a refresh (without necessarily buying new art), consider this your permission slip to get a little weirder with where you hang it.

Read on to see how designers are getting creative with where they hang their pieces and why your next favorite art placement might just be your molding.

Design by Tom Mark Henry Studio, Photography by Damian Bennett

Built-In Backdrops

Art doesn’t have to be front and center on a wall to make an impact. In this case, we’re looking at placements that are in line with the bones of your home. Built-in features like moldings and nooks above a doorway act as your artwork’s sidekicks.

WHERE TO TRY IT AT HOME:

• On Molding: Picture rail molding was practically made for art (literally, in some cases). But even if your home wasn’t blessed with built-in rails, hanging art just below a crown molding line or in front of wainscoting creates a layered, historic feel that adds polish without trying too hard.

Design by Shannon Eddings, Photography by Casey Dunn

(Left) Design + Photography by Little Joy Market, (Right) Design + Photography by The Grit and Polish

• Above the Door: That slim slice of wall space above a door frame is criminally underused, and perfect for a petite piece that catches the eye as you enter or exit a room. It’s subtle and unexpected.

(Left) Design by Pierce & Ward, Photography by Michael P. H. Clifford, (Right) Source Unknown

Design by Javier González Sánchez-Dalp, Photography by Mark Luscombe-Whyte

Bookshelf Wealth

There’s bookshelf wealth, and then there’s bookshelf bookshelf wealth, where every inch of a library-inspired room feels curated and collected. If you’re already styling your shelves with vases, books, and lamps, consider adding artwork to the mix. It’s an easy way to add more personality to an already lived-in shelf.

WHERE TO TRY IT AT HOME:

• In Front of the Bookshelf: Bookshelves don’t need to stay in the background—they can be a stage, too. Hanging art directly in front of a bookcase may feel a little wonky at first, but that’s exactly the point. It creates an unexpected layer, using vertical space in a way that feels almost sculptural.

Design by Heidi Caillier, Photography by Haris Kenjar

(Left) Design + Photography by Karen Bertelsen, (Right) Design by CSR Interiors, Photography Muriel Silva

• Inside the Shelves: Tuck in a framed print behind a stack of books or prop it up against the back of the shelf. This will add depth and break up the linear rhythm of a traditional bookshelf. It’s also great for taking up space if you don’t have enough books to display.

Design + Photography by (Left) Lisa Dawson, (Right) Joanna Hawley-McBride

Solo Acts & Statement Spots

Gallery walls are great, but a single piece of art hung in an unconventional spot can feel even bolder. We like to think of these solo placements as quiet rebels. Simple and effortlessly confident.

WHERE TO TRY IT AT HOME:

• Floating in Negative Space: Have an awkward stretch of wall that’s too small for furniture but too big to ignore? That’s prime real estate for a solo piece. Go oversized for drama or opt for a small piece for something more unpredictable.

Design by Reath Design, Photography by Laure Joliet

• Inside the Kitchen: Don’t sleep on hanging—or leaning—a piece inside your kitchen, between cabinets, or in that weird bit of wall next to your range hood. Art in the kitchen makes for a great conversation piece (and great company).

Design by Miranda Caldwell + Heck Yeah Home, Photography by Jayson Manalang

Design by Jamie Haller, Photography by Jenna Peffley

Design by Matilda Goad, Photography by Yuki Sugiura

Scroll on to shop some of our favorite art picks and accessories—perfect for your next delightfully unexpected placement.