A gallery wall is one of the most stylish and personal ways to decorate your home. Whether you prefer a clean, modern grid or an eclectic mix of prints and photos, a well‑designed gallery wall adds character, depth, and visual interest to any room. This step‑by‑step guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from choosing the right layout to hanging each piece with confidence.
Why Gallery Walls Are So Popular
Gallery walls have become a staple in modern interior design because they offer:
- Personal expression – Showcase your favourite prints, photos, and artwork.
- Design flexibility – Mix sizes, colours, and styles to suit your décor.
- Space efficiency – Perfect for filling large walls without needing one oversized piece.
- Timeless appeal – They work in living rooms, bedrooms, hallways, staircases, and home offices.
Step 1: Choose Your Gallery Wall Style
Before you start collecting frames, decide on the overall look you want. The two most popular styles are:
1. The Grid Layout (Clean & Modern)
- Perfect for minimalist or contemporary homes
- Uses matching frames and equal spacing
- Works best with prints of the same size
- Ideal above sofas, beds, or sideboards
2. The Eclectic Layout (Creative & Relaxed)
- Mixes different sizes, orientations, and frame styles
- Creates a curated, artistic feel
- Works well in hallways, staircases, and cosy living rooms
- Allows you to add new pieces over time
Step 2: Select Your Artwork
A great gallery wall has a sense of cohesion, even when the pieces vary. To achieve this, consider:
Choose a Theme
- Botanical prints
- Abstract art
- Travel photography
- Black‑and‑white minimalism
- Family photos
- Seasonal artwork
Choose a Colour Palette
Pick 2–3 dominant colours that complement your décor. This helps the wall feel intentional rather than chaotic.
Mix Sizes for Visual Interest
A combination of small, medium, and large prints creates balance and movement.
Step 3: Plan Your Layout Before Hanging
This is the step most people skip—and regret later. Planning saves time, prevents mistakes, and ensures a polished result.
Use the Floor First
Lay all your frames on the floor and experiment with arrangements until you find one you love.
Use Paper Templates
Cut paper to the size of each frame and tape them to the wall. This lets you adjust spacing and positioning without making holes.
Spacing Guidelines
- Keep 4–6 cm between frames for a clean, cohesive look
- Maintain consistent spacing throughout
- Centre the arrangement at 145–155 cm from the floor (average eye level)
Step 4: Choose the Right Frames
Frames can make or break a gallery wall. Consider:
Matching Frames
- Creates a sleek, uniform look
- Works well for grid layouts
- Best for modern or minimalist interiors
Mixed Frames
- Adds character and warmth
- Works well for eclectic layouts
- Combine wood, metal, and coloured frames for texture
Frame Size Tips
- Use larger frames as anchors
- Fill gaps with smaller prints
- Mix portrait, landscape, and square orientations
Step 5: Start Hanging (The Easy Way)
Once your layout is finalised, it’s time to hang your artwork.
Tools You’ll Need
- Hammer
- Nails or picture hooks
- Spirit level
- Measuring tape
- Pencil
Hanging Tips
- Start with the central or largest piece
- Work outward to maintain balance
- Step back frequently to check alignment
- Use a spirit level to keep everything straight
If you’re hanging above furniture, keep the bottom of the arrangement 10–20 cm above the sofa, bed, or console.
Step 6: Add Finishing Touches
Once everything is hung, take a moment to refine the look:
- Adjust frames so they sit perfectly straight
- Add a plant, lamp, or decorative object nearby to enhance the display
- Consider adding new pieces over time to keep the gallery wall evolving
Where to Create a Gallery Wall
Gallery walls work beautifully in:
- Living rooms
- Bedrooms
- Hallways
- Staircases
- Dining rooms
- Home offices
Each space offers a unique opportunity to express your style.
Creating a gallery wall is a fun and rewarding way to bring personality into your home. By choosing a cohesive style, planning your layout, selecting the right frames, and hanging each piece with care, you can transform any blank wall into a stunning focal point. Whether you prefer a clean grid or an eclectic mix, a well‑designed gallery wall adds warmth, depth, and character to your space.
