Foyer/Entryway Wall Art Sizing Guide
How to choose the right scale for entryways and first impressions.
A foyer sets the tone for the entire home.
It’s a pause between outside and inside — and the artwork here should feel welcoming, intentional, and composed, not overwhelming.
Unlike living rooms or bedrooms, foyer walls are often seen briefly and from multiple angles. That’s why clarity of scale matters more than boldness.
This guide walks through how to choose the right wall art size for foyers and entryways using the canvas sizes we offer.
Start With What’s Under the Art (If Anything)
In foyers, artwork is most commonly placed:
- above a console table or bench
- on a blank entry wall with no furniture
- beside doors, closets, or stair openings
A familiar design guideline applies when furniture is present:
Artwork should span about 60–75% of the width of the furniture below it.
Foyer With a Console Table or Bench
This is the most common and forgiving foyer setup.
Best Above the Console
24″ × 36″ (Horizontal)
- Anchors the entry without crowding it
- Works well with standard console widths
- Creates a clear focal point as you enter the home
Because foyers are transitional spaces, this size feels confident but calm, especially when paired with a lamp, mirror, or small decorative objects.
Placement tip:
Hang the canvas so the bottom edge sits 6–8 inches above the console.
Small or Narrow Foyers
In compact entryways, restraint is key. Vertical artwork often works better than wide horizontal pieces.
Best Vertical Options
-
16″ × 20″ (Vertical)
Ideal for narrow walls, small foyers, or entryways that open directly into another room. -
12″ × 16″ (Vertical)
Works well for tight wall sections beside doors, closets, or coat hooks.
These sizes keep the foyer feeling open while still adding personality.
Open Foyers or Tall Entry Walls
For foyers with more height or visual breathing room, vertical art helps emphasize scale without overwhelming the space.
Best Choice
24″ × 30″ (Vertical)
- Adds presence on tall walls
- Works well beside stair openings or near double-height spaces
- Draws the eye upward, making the entry feel more expansive
This size is especially effective when the foyer leads directly into a living or dining area.
Foyers Without Furniture Below
For blank walls with no console or bench:
- Aim for artwork that fills 50–65% of the wall width
- Center vertically for balance rather than anchoring low
A 24″ × 36″ horizontal works well on medium-width walls, while vertical canvases are often better suited for narrower entry walls.
Vertical vs Horizontal in Foyers
Choose horizontal when:
- hanging above a console or bench
- the wall is wide and uninterrupted
- you want a welcoming, grounded focal point
Choose vertical when:
- wall width is limited
- ceilings are taller
- working beside doors, closets, or stair openings
Using both across the entry sequence can create rhythm without visual clutter.
A Simple Foyer Rule to Remember
Use a 24″ × 36″ horizontal canvas to anchor entry consoles, and vertical canvases to enhance narrow or tall foyer walls.
This approach keeps entryways feeling intentional without overwhelming first impressions.
For spaces with unique proportions, custom sizing may be available — please contact us to discuss.
Final Thought
Foyer wall art doesn’t need to make a statement — it needs to make people feel at ease.
When artwork is scaled thoughtfully, it quietly welcomes guests in and signals that the home beyond is equally considered. A well-chosen piece in the entry sets the mood long before anyone reaches the living room.