An artificial tree is one of the fastest ways to transform a bare corner of your home into an inviting space — but choosing the wrong size is the most common mistake. A tree that is just too big or too small immediately stands out. With these rules of thumb, you can effortlessly choose the right size and type for your space.
First, measure your ceiling height
Allow for at least 20 to 30 cm of space between the top of the tree and the ceiling — a tree that almost touches the ceiling quickly looks cramped. For a standard ceiling height of 2.40 m, you typically choose a tree of 180 to 210 cm. Do you have higher ceilings or a stairwell? Then a 240 cm tree can work impressively well.
Consider the width of the space, not just the height
A narrow corner calls for a tree with a slender silhouette, such as an olive tree or bamboo. If you have a spacious, open area to fill — for example, next to a sofa or in a bay window — then a fuller model with wide foliage, like a ficus or monstera tree, can take up more space.
One large tree works better than several small ones
It's tempting to spread out a few smaller plants, but one well-chosen tree in the right spot often has more impact than three smaller ones. Use smaller houseplants to complement the base of the tree or a bookshelf, not as a replacement.
Light no longer plays a role — that's precisely the advantage
With a living tree, the light in the room determines which species can survive at all. With a silk tree, that limitation is removed: a dark corner, a north side without direct light, an office without windows — the same tree you saw in the showroom can be placed anywhere.
Rules of thumb per room
- Living room with sofa: 180-210 cm, next to or behind the sofa
- Empty corner or stairwell: 240 cm, for a statement
- Bedroom or smaller space: 120-150 cm, or choose a shrub on a shelf or dresser
- Office or hallway: 150-180 cm, narrow silhouette such as bamboo
Still unsure between two sizes? Then it's better to choose slightly larger — a tree that appears a bit more spacious gives an interior more tranquility than one that looks lost in the space. View the full tree collection and filter by height.