You like a picture in the shop – but will it also fit next to the chest of drawers or on the narrow wall in the hallway? Before you buy or drill a hole, you can check the effect with a simple paper sample. You will need paper, a tape measure and some space from the wall. This allows you to compare potential places with the furniture that is already there.
1. Choose the space first, then the motif
Don't just look at the free wall space. What furniture is underneath? Does a door open next to it? Will a lamp or a plant later cover part of the picture? First, choose a place where the motif remains visible in everyday life and is not in the way.
A small picture can deliberately emphasize a compact area, for example above a narrow piece of furniture. Above a wide sofa, however, the same picture can look very understated. Both can be intentional: the deciding factor is whether you like the ratio of the picture, furniture and free wall.
2. Cut out the stated format as a paper sample
Cut paper to the size of the stated picture format. Two examples from our range are The Copper Empress in the 30 × 30 cm format and The Silent Architect in the 20 × 25 cm portrait format. The sample shows you the difference between a square and a narrower, portrait-oriented area.
Important: The product details state the format, but not the separate outer dimensions of the frame. Therefore, use this paper sample for an initial assessment, not as an exact drilling template. If space is tight between two pieces of furniture, clarify the outer dimensions before purchasing and measure the delivered frame again before installation.
Let a second person hold the sample against the wall. If you want to attach it temporarily, use only a solution suitable for your surface that can be removed without residue and test it discreetly first. Even removable adhesive strips can damage sensitive surfaces.
3. Look at the wall from everyday life
Don't judge the position only directly in front of it. Sit on the chair or sofa from which you will later see the picture. Walk along the usual path in the hallway. Does the sample look harmonious there, or is it too high, too low or too far to the edge from this viewing angle?
Move it only in one direction at a time and take a photo from the same viewpoint. Compare the variants from a distance. A single fixed hanging height does not suit every room and every use.
4. Check light and colors separately
The paper sample helps with size and position, but shows neither the motif nor possible reflections. Therefore, also look at the desired place in daylight and with the room lighting switched on. Pay attention to windows and lights opposite the wall.
Then compare the colors of the motif with your room. With The Copper Empress, for example, you can consider whether the copper-colored and turquoise elements of the picture match existing accents. This is a design idea, not a material specification: The depicted shapes and metal effects are part of a two-dimensional print motif. The shop image is a digital preview; screen display and printing colors may vary slightly.
5. Decide only after comparison
- Does the format suit the free space and the furniture underneath?
- Does the motif remain visible from your usual viewing angle?
- Have door movements, lights and plants been taken into account?
- Have the outer dimensions of the frame been clarified if space is tight?
- Does the mounting suit the delivered frame and the wall?
For installation, the manufacturer's instructions and the requirements of your wall surface apply. The paper sample does not replace a check of the mounting. The two linked pictures are made to order; have the specific delivery date confirmed instead of planning for immediate availability in stock.
With this little preparation, you may also conclude that another place is better – or that you don't need a new picture for now.
If you would like further insights from the NLA Shop, you can find us on Instagram at @rh_nla_shop.