There’s nothing quite like New York City seen from above—the skyline, the river, the city lights that feel alive even from 30 stories up. But for residents of NYC’s soaring high-rises, those floor-to-ceiling windows, while stunning, present unique challenges when it comes to placing and hanging art. At ILevel, we’ve spent decades mastering the balance between breathtaking views and beautifully installed artwork. Here’s how we help our clients bring harmony between interior expression and panoramic perfection.
Working with Glass, Light, and Limitations
In a recent project, our team was asked to install a series of large-scale abstract paintings in a living room with three full glass walls. With very few solid surfaces, it became clear that the traditional “center over sofa” rule wouldn’t cut it. We mapped out every available wall section—columns, niches, even partial drywall bump-outs—to determine the ideal placement. The goal? Let the view breathe while anchoring the room with art that didn’t compete, but complemented.
Tip #1: Let the view inform the placement.
When you’re working with that much glass, the view becomes part of the room’s composition. Art should enhance the experience, not overwhelm it. We often use the architecture—columns, structural posts, and dividing walls—as anchoring points, and even hang art over windows.
Elevating More Than the Art
In a Central Park South residence, a client wanted to feature a group of mirrors on a wall opposite floor-to-ceiling windows. We took full advantage of the natural light in combination with the mirrors to enhance the brightness in this room.
Tip #2: Use the light to complement the art pieces.
High-rise views often come with intense natural light. Mirrors amplify the light at certain times of the day.
Family Photos in the Sun
We hung this family photo wall up the stairs and in full sunlight to complement the images of the family’s summer vacation. With special considerations, photos can be hung in front of windows.
Tip #3: Consider conservation.
We always advise on materials—non-reflective glazing, protective coatings, and strategic placement to keep both the art and the view in their best light.
The Art of Restraint
Sometimes, the best decision is knowing when not to hang. In a minimalist Upper East Side high-rise, our team consulted on what to leave blank—choosing to group artworks in more intimate, enclosed spaces like the den and bedroom while letting the living room remain open to the sky. Art needs space to breathe, especially when it shares the stage with something as iconic as the Empire State Building.
Tip #4: Edit. Then edit again.
In high-rises, less can truly be more. Thoughtful placement often means choosing fewer, more impactful works.
Elevate Your Collection
At ILevel, we understand that art placement is never just about walls—it’s about story, structure, and setting. Whether you’re in a penthouse with panoramic views or a sun-drenched loft, we’ll work with you to create a space where art and architecture meet in harmony.
Looking to hang your collection high above the city? Let’s talk. We bring precision, artistry, and decades of NYC experience to every install.