Narrow walls are everywhere — beside a doorway, above a bed, between windows, along the stairs. But because they’re tricky to style, they’re often left bare. With the right narrow artwork, these overlooked spaces can become some of the most beautiful moments in your home.
At Atelier Printworks, we design our long horizontal and tall vertical prints to fit exactly those spaces that standard art sizes often ignore. Whether you’re working with a slim corridor, a tall stairwell, or a compact nook, here’s how to choose the best wall art format, orientation, and frame colour for every room.
Bedroom: Calm symmetry or soft horizontals
The wall above your bed or beside your wardrobe is one of the most common awkward spaces — long but not tall, or tall but too narrow. Narrow wall art solves this perfectly.
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Above the bed: Choose a horizontal narrow piece that spans roughly two-thirds the width of your headboard. Abstract or nature-inspired pieces in soft tones add calm and cohesion.
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Beside a wardrobe or window: Opt for a vertical print to draw the eye upward and balance the room’s symmetry.
- Framing tip: A natural wood or white frame keeps the look soft and restful, ideal for a bedroom setting.
Try this look: A long, narrow landscape in gentle blues and greys above your bed, or a tall botanical print flanking a dressing table.
Living room: Balance the big furniture pieces
The living room is often home to wide sofas, sideboards, and consoles — and the walls above them can feel disproportionately empty.
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Horizontal art: A long, narrow print helps anchor large furniture without overwhelming the wall. Look for panoramic landscapes or abstract horizontals that echo the length of your sofa.
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Vertical art: Use a slim vertical piece beside shelving or a window to elongate the space and balance the layout.
- Frame tip: Black or walnut frames create definition against light walls and pair beautifully with neutral living spaces.
Style note: In open-plan rooms, narrow art can help visually zone a space, guiding the eye and creating flow.
Hallway or staircase: Elevate the in-between spaces
Hallways and staircases are classic examples of walls that feel too awkward for standard art. This is where tall vertical prints shine.
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Staircase: Hang a single tall piece or a vertical series that follows the line of the stairs. It adds movement and draws the eye upward.
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Hallway: Choose a narrow vertical print at the end of the hall to create a focal point that invites you through the space.
- Frame tip: Black or dark wood frames add contrast in areas with white walls or strong natural light.
Pro tip: Don’t be afraid to go taller than usual here — vertical pieces can make ceilings feel higher and spaces feel grander.
Bathroom or nook: Add character without clutter
Small spaces benefit from art that’s proportionate yet expressive. In bathrooms, utility rooms, or alcoves, narrow vertical prints can provide just the right touch of personality.
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For a spa feel: Choose soft-toned botanicals or abstract water-inspired designs.
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For a bold accent: Try graphic or geometric art in a black frame for contrast.
Because these areas are often compact, the slim silhouette of narrow art helps them feel thoughtfully designed rather than crowded.
Dining area or kitchen: Long horizontals for connection
The dining area or kitchen wall often benefits from art that ties the room together horizontally.
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Above a dining bench or sideboard: A long horizontal print mirrors the shape of the furniture and helps unify the space.
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In an open kitchen: Use a narrow horizontal piece between upper and lower cabinets, or above a breakfast bar, for subtle visual interest.
- Frame tip: Warm wood frames add natural texture that complements dining materials like oak, rattan, or linen.
Pro tip: A horizontal landscape or abstract horizon line works beautifully here — grounding the space and drawing people together.
Narrow wall art isn’t a limitation — it’s an opportunity. Every room has those spaces that feel awkward, but when you choose the right orientation and frame, they become part of the story of your home.
At Atelier Printworks, our collection of long horizontal and tall vertical framed prints is designed to make these tricky spaces shine. Whether you prefer minimalist abstracts, tranquil botanicals, or textured landscapes, the right narrow piece can transform your walls.
Explore the full Narrow Wall Art Collection →
