Anatomy of a Gallery Wall

One of the hottest trends in wall decor of late is the Gallery Wall.  Gallery Wall Displays, “a collection of  wall decor elements grouped together to create a visual impact” (my definition), are  a great for so many reasons.

1. They create a statement that a single piece of artwork sometimes cannot.

2. Gallery Wall Displays (GWD as we’ll call them from here on out)  cost less than your average piece of large wall art.  When it comes to inexpensive frames think Ikea, Goodwill and flea markets. 

3. GWD can be created to work with any design style based on the frames you use, the elements you frame and how the pieces are hung.

4. GWD are great for personalizing a home and showcasing images and things you love.

5. You can “create” a theme with GWD where one may not have existed before.

Here are a few of my favorite GWD , why they work and what I like about them…

This GWD is the perfect filler for this corner space, creating an intimate vignette within the larger room.  Using narrow frame widths relate the frames to each other and the arrangement hung vertically plays up the height of the ceilings.

The theme:  Black and white images (for the most part)!

To create a slightly more traditional feel with your GWD, frame all the art pieces the same.  Black frames and white mats allow the collection of images to relate to each other and create symmetry.  And, because the frames are all the same size, the arrangement in total has greater impact.  I also love how the pieces are hung in a tiered arrangement, growing in impact near the bottom.

The theme:  Historical War Images

For a more eclectic feel, using a variety of frame styles, frame details and frame colors is the way to go.  Hanging the pieces in more of a random pattern and having some frames remain empty play to the eclectic feel of this space.  In this type of GWD it is also good to incorporate a few unframed stretched canvas pieces for added interest.

The theme:  Handpainted images–watercolors, oil and pencil drawings

This is another example of an eclectic GWD.  Again a variety of frame styles are used, canvas pieces are incorporated and the arrangement is a bit random.  The elements that  really makes this GWD work is the central theme of flower art.  Using a single theme of art is a great way to personalize a space and create a dynamic statement.

The beauty of GWD is that just about anything can be used to create the statement.  Whether it’s your childs art (above) or fabric pieces (below) the impact can be great.  The colors in the GWD tie back to the decor seamlessly.

The theme:  Colorful and playful children’s art!

One of my favorite GWD looks is one that combines decorative elements together with functional pieces.  This type of gallery wall is great of office spaces, mudrooms or kitchens.  In this type of GWD incorporating shelving and typography in addition to 3-dimensional wall hooks and decor really amps up the style factor.

 

Want a modern take on a GWD?  Hang your collection of images close and tight!

The theme:  Family photos!

And, when it comes to frame styles, be creative.  I love this grouping of white frame where all the images are floating.  Not only does this GWD have a modern feel, but the pieces seem to stand out more.  Notice the focused theme…fashion! I love how shopping bags were used within the grouping.

Here’s a great example of creating a GWD that fills an entire wall space.  Each of the elements stand on their own, there’s variety within the grouping and the overall impression is grand.  

The theme:  The story of the family…who they are, things they love and where they’ve been!

 

So there you have it, the anatomy of a Gallery Wall.  In the end, creativity is all you need to create a GWD in your own home (well, creativity, lots of nails and patience!) 

If you’re stressing about creating a gallery wall display,  here’s a great tutorial from Brooklyn Limestone and another one from Young House Love!

 

So how many of you out there have a GWD is your own home?  Me, I have three going on!

 

If you’d like help creating a home your absolutely love, CONTACT ME about my design services.

all image via pinterest

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