22 gallery wall ideas to create a striking display

Creating a gallery wall is an artful endeavor that transforms any space into a personal haven of self-expression for any artist, creator, or art enthusiast. 

In this blog, we'll explore the art of curating and creating a striking gallery wall. We'll examine a few unique ideas, ranging from incorporating nature themes to experimenting with mixed media. You'll find tips on balancing different styles and elements while ensuring harmony within your space. We’ll also cover essential considerations like wall size, alignment, and lighting to help you create a cohesive look. 

And with Gelato's versatile range of wall art products at the ready, you’ll be inspired to design a gallery wall that's uniquely yours.

• Consider wall size, frame styles, and lighting to enhance your display's visual impact and make a striking impression.

• Experiment with layout ideas like grids, mismatched frames, and monochrome schemes for the best outcome.

• Follow practical tips for measuring, spacing, and arranging your gallery wall with precision and creativity.

• Utilize Gelato's print on demand services to print personal artwork and customize various wall art sizes.

A gallery wall is an artful display of various visual pieces, including photos, drawings, art prints, and even plates or mixed media, arranged on a blank wall to create an eye-catching focal point. It adds personality and style to any space and is a fantastic way to showcase your creativity and cherished memories.

Let's jump right in and transform your walls from mundane to magnificent with these inspiring and stunning gallery wall ideas below.

1. Nature theme

Bring the outside in with a serene, nature-inspired gallery wall. Choose lush landscapes, botanical prints, and wildlife photography to create a calming oasis. Pairing vibrant greens and earth tones against a neutral background will make your wall decor pop. 

2. Personal artwork

Turn your personal masterpieces into stunning wall art effortlessly with Gelato. Our platform makes uploading and printing your unique creations as beautiful posters easy. Be it an original painting or a cherished sketch, Gelato ensures high-quality results are delivered quickly. 

3. Typography

Let words tell a story on your wall. Use bold quotes, elegant calligraphy, or vintage posters to bring personality to your space. A mix of fonts and sizes can create a dynamic look. Stick to a theme—whether inspirational, humorous, or classic—to make a striking visual impact. 

4. Abstract pieces

Abstract art pieces add movement and intrigue to a gallery wall. Mix geometric patterns with organic shapes to create contrast. Play with different wall art sizes and colors to establish a focal point. Abstract pieces work well in modern, boho, or eclectic spaces.

5. Family photos

Celebrate your loved ones with a gallery wall dedicated to family photos. Mix candid moments with formal portraits for a personal touch. Use cohesive frames to create harmony or an eclectic mix for a playful feel. 

6. Mixed media

Break the monotony by combining paintings, prints, fabric art, and sculptures. Mixed media gallery walls add depth and variety, making your space feel curated rather than staged. Layer different textures like canvas, wood, and metal for a dynamic effect. 

7. Empty framed art display

Display empty frames in various sizes and finishes for a bold, unconventional look. This minimalist approach adds structure and texture to a wall without overwhelming it. Arrange frames symmetrically for a polished look or asymmetrically for a more organic feel. 

8. Go monochrome

Stick to a single color palette for a gallery wall that feels cohesive and sophisticated. A monochrome arrangement creates harmony, whether it’s varying shades of blue, warm earth tones, or classic neutrals. Mix different mediums—photos, paintings, and sketches—to keep it interesting.

9. Black and white

Combine photographs, sketches, and graphic prints for a refined look. Stick to simple black, white, or metallic frames to maintain consistency. The lack of color allows the focus to be on composition and contrast, making this style ideal for contemporary and classic interiors.

10. Floor to ceiling

Maximize your wall space by extending your gallery wall from floor to ceiling. This design boldly draws the eye upward, creating the illusion of a taller space. Use a mix of art, photos, and sculptural pieces for variety. This idea suits staircases, narrow hallways, or a living room gallery wall. 

11. Create a grid

This symmetrical arrangement works well for prints, typography, or photography collections. Keep frame sizes uniform for a polished look, or mix them slightly for a touch of variation. This approach is perfect for modern, minimalist, or Scandinavian-inspired spaces.

12. Mismatched frames

Combine different colors, styles, and materials—wood, metal, ornate, or sleek—to add character. This approach is perfect for showcasing a mix of vintage prints, travel photos, and personal artwork. The key is to maintain a balanced arrangement to keep it visually appealing.

13. Go minimalist

Less is more when it comes to a minimalist gallery wall. Stick to a few carefully chosen pieces with clean lines and neutral tones. Opt for thin frames and a limited color palette to maintain simplicity. This approach keeps the space airy and uncluttered while making an artistic statement.

14. Vintage

Create a nostalgic atmosphere with a vintage-inspired gallery wall. Mix antique paintings, retro advertisements, and old maps for a timeless look. Choose ornate or distressed frames to enhance the charm. 

15. Sports theme

Showcase your love for sports with a themed gallery wall featuring memorabilia, framed jerseys, and action shots. Add vintage sports posters or ticket stubs for a nostalgic touch. Keep frames consistent to tie everything together. 

16. Hang plates

Turn decorative plates into an eye-catching gallery wall. Mix sizes, colors, and patterns to create an artistic display. Arrange them symmetrically for a refined look or asymmetrically for a more dynamic feel. This idea works beautifully in kitchens and dining rooms, adding a touch of charm and personality. 

17. Travel photos

Turn your gallery wall into a personal travel diary by displaying photos from your adventures. Mix landscapes, cityscapes, and candid moments for variety. Frame postcards, tickets, or maps to add depth. 

18. Incorporate shelving

Blend framed art with floating shelves for a dynamic gallery wall. Shelving lets you layer pieces and add books, plants, or small sculptures. This flexible approach lets you switch out decor easily. It’s perfect for renters or those who frequently refresh their space without committing to a fixed arrangement.

19. Take it up the stairs

Transform your staircase into a stylish gallery wall by following the incline with framed artwork. Use a consistent frame style for cohesion, or mix it up for an eclectic look. This setup uses an often-overlooked space and adds personality to transitional areas of your home.

20. Use pressed florals

Incorporate nature into your gallery wall with pressed floral art. Frame dried flowers, leaves, or botanical prints to create a soft, organic aesthetic. Choose minimalist frames for a modern look or ornate ones for a more classic feel.

21. Combine textures and materials

Mix canvas, wood, metal, and textiles for a gallery wall with depth and dimension. The contrast between smooth and rough textures adds visual interest. Try pairing macrame hangings with framed prints or wooden accents with metallic elements. 

22. Add a mirror

Break up traditional gallery walls with an elegant mirror. This adds variety, reflects light, and makes the space feel larger. Choose a statement mirror as the centerpiece or incorporate multiple small ones for a unique arrangement.

Now that you have ideas to choose from, it's time to design your gallery wall. Below are key factors to consider to help you achieve a balanced and engaging display.

Wall size and proportions

When planning a gallery wall, consider its dimensions to avoid overwhelming the space. Large walls can handle bold, expansive displays, while smaller areas may require a more minimal, curated approach. Balance is key; ensure the art amplifies the room's overall aesthetic rather than clashing with it. 

Frame styles and finishes

Frame styles can remarkably shape your gallery wall's aesthetic. Choose from sleek modern metal frames to vintage wood tones. Gelato offers a diverse selection of framed art sizes and options, allowing you to customize your display to any taste. 

Art selection

Choosing the right pieces is essential to creating an impactful gallery wall. Consider the mood you want to convey: modern, vintage, or eclectic. Mix different styles or stick to a theme, ensuring harmony in your selection. 

Spacing and alignment

Keep spacing consistent, whether you prefer a tight or a more relaxed arrangement. Ensure all pieces align at the top or bottom for a polished look. Consider leaving space between items to make room for future pieces, allowing for an evolving and dynamic display.

Hanging method

Choosing the right hanging art method is crucial for the longevity and aesthetic of your gallery wall. Whether you’re using nails, picture hooks, or removable strips, ensure weight compatibility and ease of use. Using a level and measuring tape will help keep your pieces straight and evenly spaced. 

Lighting

Use spotlights or sconces to accentuate key pieces or add a contemporary touch. String lights can add a subtle glow for a cozy feel. The choice of lighting can also be an integral part of your wall's theme, adding both function and artistic flair to your display.

Layering elements

Get creative by combining different types of art and decor styles, such as framed prints, canvases, and even three-dimensional objects. Incorporate texture with items like woven wall hangings or small sculptures to add depth and interest. 

Flexibility

One of the greatest perks of a gallery wall is its adaptability. With easily interchangeable pieces, your display can evolve to reflect your taste or decor changes. Opt for removable hanging solutions for simple rearrangements. 

Room function

When designing your gallery wall, consider the functionality of the room in which it hangs. A living room might benefit from soothing landscapes, while a home office could be invigorated by motivational quotes. Tailor your selection to match the room's atmosphere and purpose.

Before you set up your gallery wall, here are a few tips below to ensure your display is perfectly aligned and aesthetically pleasing.

1. Measure your wall space before starting

Before hanging anything, measure the width and height of your wall. This helps determine how much space you have to work with and prevents overcrowding. Consider any furniture below the gallery and leave enough breathing room. Jot down the measurements and use painter’s tape to mark key points. 

2. Create a layout template with paper cutouts on the bare wall

Cut pieces of paper to match the size of your frames and tape them to the wall to visualize the layout. This allows you to experiment with different arrangements without making unnecessary holes. Adjust placements until you find a balanced design. 

3. Maintain consistent spacing between frames

Keeping even spacing between frames creates a polished and cohesive look. A general rule of thumb is to leave two to four inches between each frame, depending on the size and style. Use a ruler or painter’s tape to measure gaps accurately. 

4. Use a level and painter's tape to keep everything straight

A crooked gallery wall can make even the best artwork look disorganized. Use a level to ensure each frame is perfectly aligned. Painter’s tape can serve as a guideline to maintain a straight row. Check each piece before securing it so the final result looks clean and professional.

5. Start with the centerpiece and build outward

Identify the most prominent piece in your collection and place it first. This could be the largest frame, a standout artwork, or a sentimental piece. Center it at eye level, then arrange the surrounding frames around it. This method helps maintain balance and creates a visually appealing focal point.

6. Consider eye-level placement for best visibility

For optimal viewing, position the center of your gallery wall at eye level—roughly 57 to 60 inches from the floor. Leave at least six to eight inches of space if placing artwork above furniture. Proper placement ensures the display is comfortable to view and harmonizes with the room’s layout.

7. Test different layouts on the floor first

Before committing to a wall arrangement, lay out your frames on the floor. This allows you to experiment with different compositions and make adjustments easily. Move pieces around until you achieve a balanced and visually pleasing setup. 

8. Account for frame sizes and shapes

A well-balanced gallery wall incorporates a mix of frame sizes and orientations. Large frames can anchor the display, while smaller ones add variety. If using different shapes, ensure they complement each other. Step back and evaluate the arrangement to avoid awkward gaps. 

9. Use removable hanging strips for flexibility

If you’re unsure about your layout or want an easy way to adjust frames later, opt for removable hanging strips. They provide strong support without damaging walls and allow for quick repositioning. This is especially useful in rental spaces where nails aren’t an option. 

10. Double-check spacing before securing frames

Before finalizing your gallery wall, step back and assess the spacing between frames. Ensure that each piece is evenly aligned and that no gaps are out of place. A quick double-check with a ruler or tape measure can prevent last-minute adjustments. 

As we've learned in this post, creating a striking gallery wall combines creativity with strategic planning. The possibilities are endless, from personal artwork to vintage pieces and several other themes and vibes.

Gelato simplifies this curation journey with our impressive print on demand services. 

Featuring several product variations, Gelato's wall art and custom posters allow you to effortlessly bring your artistic vision to life. With fast delivery across 34 countries, your gallery wall is just a few clicks away. Known for sustainability, Gelato ensures your decor dreams are stylish and eco-conscious as well. 

What are you waiting for? Transform your spaces and make a unique statement.  Sign up for Gelato today!

What is the 2/3 rule for wall art?

The 2/3 rule for wall art suggests that your artwork should occupy approximately two-thirds of the wall it's on. This creates balance and ensures the art doesn't overpower the room. By adhering to this guideline, you can achieve a pleasing visual proportion that complements your interior design.

What is the rule for gallery walls?

Balance is key for gallery walls. Start with varying art sizes and maintain a consistent distance between pieces. Use complementary frames and styles for cohesion. Create a focal point, then work outward. Maintain eye-level placement for visibility and experiment with layouts before committing to one. 

Are gallery walls still cool?

Absolutely! Gallery walls remain timelessly stylish, offering a dynamic way to express personal taste and creativity. They add character and distinctiveness to any space, whether at home or in an office. With endless design possibilities, they're a trend and a perpetual favorite for interior enthusiasts.