A gallery wall is one of the most impactful ways to transform a blank wall into a personal, curated art display. Whether you’re working with a wide living room wall or a narrow hallway, a well-arranged collection of art prints can add style, personality, and depth to any space.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to plan, select, arrange, and hang your art prints to create a gallery wall that feels cohesive, balanced, and uniquely yours.
Plan Your Gallery Wall Before You Hang
The key to a polished, professional-looking gallery wall is thoughtful planning. Before reaching for the hammer, take a few steps to map out your vision.
Symmetrical vs. Asymmetrical Layouts
- Symmetrical layouts follow a grid or aligned format. Best for formal, clean aesthetics, especially with matching frame sizes.
- Asymmetrical layouts allow more creative freedom. They combine different sizes and shapes for a relaxed, organic look.
Choose based on your room’s vibe — structured and modern or casual and eclectic.
Establish a Focal Point
Select one print to serve as the anchor for your arrangement. This could be the largest print, one with bold color, or something that holds personal meaning. Build the rest of your gallery outward from this centerpiece for balance.
Maintain Even Spacing
Keep consistent spacing between frames — typically 2–3 inches — to avoid visual clutter. Use painter’s tape and a ruler or level to visualize and mark before hanging.
Use Paper Templates or Floor Layouts
Create paper cutouts the size of each frame and tape them to the wall to test arrangements. Alternatively, lay your frames out on the floor to experiment with placements until it feels just right.
Select Art Prints That Work Together
A successful gallery wall feels cohesive, even when it features a mix of styles and sizes. Here’s how to curate a set of prints that complement one another.
Choose a Color Palette
Pick a palette of three to four key colors that repeat throughout the prints. This could reflect the colors already in your space, or create contrast for visual impact. For neutral interiors, try prints in soft grays, beiges, or monochrome with a pop of color.
Maintain Style or Theme Harmony
You can mix styles, but anchor your wall with a unifying thread:
- Stick to modern minimalism, vintage designs, or botanical themes
- Try a consistent subject matter (landscapes, abstract, photography, etc.)
Mix Sizes and Orientations
Using a combination of portrait, landscape, and square prints creates visual interest. Mix large statement pieces with smaller, quieter prints to maintain flow without imbalance.
Choose Frames and Mats for Style and Structure
Frames are more than functional — they’re part of the design. Choosing the right ones enhances the art and unifies the arrangement.
Matching vs. Mixed Frames
- Matching frames (all identical or similar) work well for clean, modern layouts
- Mixed frames (varying colors, materials, or shapes) create a more eclectic, bohemian look
If mixing, limit yourself to two or three frame styles to avoid visual chaos.
Select the Right Materials and Finishes
- Wood frames bring warmth, especially with natural or earth-toned prints
- Metal or black frames work well in modern, industrial, or minimalist spaces
- White or neutral frames suit nearly any style and keep the focus on the art
Incorporate Mats Strategically
Matting can:
- Create visual breathing room
- Make small prints feel larger
- Add subtle texture or color around the artwork
Use white or neutral mats for simplicity, or experiment with colored mats for a bolder look.
Hanging Techniques for a Secure, Balanced Display
Once you’ve finalized your layout and selected prints and frames, it’s time to bring it all together.
Start with the Anchor Print
Begin hanging with your central piece at eye level. This usually means placing the center of the frame about 57–60 inches from the floor. Build out from there using your pre-mapped layout.
Use Proper Tools
- Nails or picture hooks for heavy frames
- Command strips for lightweight frames or rental spaces
- Level, measuring tape, and painter’s tape to align your work accurately
Check your work as you go. Stand back frequently to adjust placement and spacing as needed.
Add Personality with Creative Touches
A gallery wall is more than an art display — it’s a story. Add elements that make the space feel personal and lived-in.
Mix in Personal Photos
Incorporate a few framed family photos or travel shots alongside your art prints to blend aesthetic with sentiment.
Include 3D Elements
Add visual depth with:
- Small mirrors
- Sculptural wall objects
- Hanging plants or fabric textures
These unexpected elements bring movement and tactile interest to the display.
Change with the Seasons
Gallery walls are flexible. Switch out prints or reorder pieces to reflect seasonal moods, events, or design updates without a full room makeover.
Frame the Gallery Wall Visually
Create a boundary using wall paint, trim, or even washi tape to “frame” the entire arrangement and set it apart from the rest of the space.
Final Thoughts: Build a Gallery Wall That Tells Your Story
Creating a gallery wall is a chance to showcase who you are — your style, your memories, your artistic taste. With careful planning, curated prints, and smart styling, you can turn any wall into a focal point that elevates your entire space.
Whether your wall features framed abstracts, delicate botanicals, travel memories, or a rotating selection of new finds, the process should be fun, personal, and ever-evolving.
Take your time, trust your eye, and let the wall grow with you.
Want more inspiration?
Explore our curated collection of art prints and framing options designed for gallery walls of every size and style.
