The most common mistake with wall art is choosing a piece that is too small for the wall. This quick guide helps you pick the right size Islamic calligraphy for your space before you order.
Step 1: Measure the wall and the furniture
Measure the width of the empty wall and of any furniture beneath it, such as a sofa, console or bed. Use a tape measure in centimetres and note the ceiling height too.
Step 2: Use the two-thirds rule
A piece hung above furniture looks balanced when it is about two-thirds to three-quarters of the furniture’s width. For example:
- Above a 200 cm sofa: artwork about 130–150 cm wide, or a set of two or three smaller pieces of similar total width.
- Above a 120 cm console or sideboard: artwork about 80–90 cm wide.
- On an empty wall with no furniture: artwork about 60–75% of the wall width you want to fill.
Step 3: Decide between one statement piece or a set
A single large piece such as Ayat an-Nur or a large Bismillah creates a strong focal point in a majlis or living room. A set of three surahs (Al-Ikhlas, Al-Falaq and An-Nas) works well across a long wall or staircase.
Step 4: Check the hanging height
Leave about 20–30 cm between the top of the furniture and the bottom of the artwork. On a bare wall, place the centre of the piece at roughly 145–155 cm from the floor.
Quick size reference
- Small (about 30–50 cm): shelves, desks and narrow walls.
- Medium (about 50–80 cm): entrances, bedrooms, dining areas, offices.
- Large (80 cm and above): living rooms, majlis, double-height walls, reception areas.
Each product page lists the exact dimensions. Not sure which size fits? Send us a photo of your wall on WhatsApp (+971 50 766 8139) and we will suggest the right size.
Frequently asked questions
What size is best above a sofa?
Choose artwork about two-thirds of the sofa’s width. For a standard three-seater (about 200 cm), that means roughly 130–150 cm, either as one piece or a set.
Is bigger always better?
Not always. In small rooms a piece that is too large can feel heavy. Keep at least 15–20 cm of clear wall on each side.
Can I combine calligraphy with other décor?
Yes. Pair a calligraphy piece with plants, a mirror or soft lighting, but keep it the clear focal point. Browse our home décor collection for ideas.
Frequently asked questions
What size Islamic wall art should I choose for above a sofa?
A common guide is to choose a piece roughly half to two-thirds the width of the sofa, and hang it so the bottom edge sits about 20–30 cm above the backrest.
What sizes does Al Malek Design make?
Our wall pieces range from slim 20 × 50 cm verticals to long 120 × 23 cm horizontals, with popular round designs at 40 × 40 cm and 60 × 60 cm. Each product page lists its exact size.
Is there a smaller version for a shelf or desk?
Yes. Many designs are also made as free-standing tabletop pieces on a wooden base. Prices go by length: up to 30 cm AED 75, 31–49 cm AED 100, about 50 cm AED 125, 51–80 cm AED 150 and 81–120 cm AED 200.
Does the colour change the price?
No. Black, Gold and Metallic White are the same price for every design.
