1 gallery wall, 3 ways

1 gallery wall, 3 ways

A gallery wall is a simple and effective way to create a focal point in your decor.

But what’s the best way to arrange your pieces? Here are three easy design ideas and a few tips to get just the effect you’re looking for!

3 simple and stunning arrangements

1.     Symmetrical

A symmetrical gallery wall is the easiest to create, and it’s also very soothing on the eyes! To achieve this effect, simply arrange your framed pieces symmetrically in relation to a vertical or horizontal axis like a wall, the floor or a piece of furniture.

2.     Around a central frame

For this kind of arrangement, start by putting the biggest frame in the centre, at eye level. Then hang smaller pieces around it. While your main piece is at the heart of your little gallery, it can be off-centre in relation to other elements in the room like furniture or accessories.

3.     Mix and match

Create a striking visual effect by interspersing decorative objects among your framed pieces: a mirror, decorative capital letter, clock, buffalo skull, small shelf, macrame hanging, or any other little treasure you’d like to display. Check out our decor section for ideas!

Basic rules for a beautiful gallery wall

Find the ideal spot

The space above a large piece of furniture like a sofa, bed, buffet or low dresser is often a good place to start for this kind of arrangement. A gallery wall is also a great way to brighten up underused spaces like a stairwell.

Pick a unifying theme

The idea is to create an effect of unity. The pieces should be connected in some way, through a recurring theme or element that gives your gallery wall a harmonious effect in the ensemble. This could be a two-colour scheme or the use of similar metallic frames or photos in black and white, for example. Browse our selection of frames for inspiration!

Aim for balance

If your gallery wall hangs over a piece of furniture, you should take it into account in the height and size of your arrangement. For example, if your pieces are hung over a sofa, allow at least 6 in. (15 cm) from the back of the sofa to the base of your lowest frame. Remember that it’s better to make your arrangement wider than taller, and avoid leaving too much space between pieces. As a general rule, try to keep your pieces at eye level.

Limit colours and materials

You don’t want things to get too busy, so it’s a good idea to stick to two or three main colours and materials. You can obviously deviate from this rule depending on the desired effect, but then you should play with the layout of the different pieces to create visual balance. Decor tip: If you have some old frames lying around, this is the perfect excuse to grab some spray paint in the colour of your choice and give them a new life!

Make a template before hanging

When you’re ready to hang your little gallery, it can be stressful to get everything positioned in the right place. To avoid having to rearrange your pieces after you’ve already hung them, we recommend laying out your design on the floor first, then cutting out pieces of kraft paper in the size and shape of each piece. Stick them on the wall to visualize the effect, adjust as needed, and then go ahead and hang your frames!

There are so many possibilities when it comes to curating your gallery wall: using pieces from your favourite local artists, showcasing your own artwork or photographs, printing free illustrations you find online, and many more!

Decor tip

Another way to showcase your favourite framed pieces is to place them on a picture rail or shelf, so you can easily rearrange them on a whim! You could even create a half-wall using a shelf, as suggested in our article DIY: Half-wall of panelling as headboard. Just remember: when it comes to hanging your own little gallery, there’s fun to be had no matter what your approach!