Choosing how to display your art prints is nearly as important as selecting the art itself. The right presentation doesn’t just protect your artwork — it can transform how it’s perceived and how it interacts with your space. Whether you’re drawn to the structure of traditional framing or the contemporary openness of floating displays, each method brings its own benefits and visual impact.
In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between framed and floating displays, explore which styles suit different spaces, and share tips for mixing both approaches to create a cohesive, gallery-worthy home.
Understanding the Basics: Framing vs. Floating Displays
When displaying art prints, two of the most popular options are framing and floating. Here’s what makes each unique.
What Is Framing?
Framing is the traditional method of art display. A frame can:
- Provide a formal structure around the art
- Include a mat (border) to create breathing room
- Use glass or acrylic to protect from dust, moisture, and UV rays
Framed art is ideal for preserving valuable or delicate prints and often enhances intricate, detailed works by drawing attention inward. The downside? Frames can feel heavier and more formal, which may not suit all spaces.
What Is Floating?
Floating displays allow prints to appear as if they’re suspended — either within a clear frame or directly on the wall using standoff hardware or adhesive mounts. This style:
- Emphasizes a minimalist, modern aesthetic
- Makes prints feel light, integrated, and contemporary
- Works well in open-concept or casual spaces
While visually striking, floating displays offer less protection than framed pieces, making them better for prints with less preservation concern and for use in lower-traffic areas.
When Framing Is the Best Choice
Framing offers durability and elegance — perfect for certain rooms, styles, and types of prints. Here’s when to frame:
1. For Formal or Traditional Rooms
Framed art elevates spaces like dining rooms, home offices, or libraries. It complements classic furniture and architectural details, adding structure and timelessness to the décor.
2. When Preserving Valuable or Delicate Prints
Framing protects artwork from UV light, dust, and handling damage. Use high-quality materials and UV-filtering glass if you’re displaying original prints or sentimental pieces.
3. To Highlight Detailed or Fine Art
Framing can help focus the eye, especially for artwork with intricate lines or subtle textures. Matting adds visual space and prevents visual clutter around the edges.
4. To Match Interior Design Elements
With endless options — from sleek black metal to warm walnut wood — frames can be chosen to match furniture, lighting, or architectural features, helping art integrate into your room’s style.
When Floating Prints Work Best
Floating displays provide a modern, breathable feel — great for informal, open spaces or when you want the art to feel organic and unconfined.
1. In Minimalist or Contemporary Interiors
Floating prints reduce visual weight, which keeps your walls looking light and uncluttered. This is ideal for clean, modern aesthetics.
2. To Showcase Unusual or Textured Art
If a print has rough edges, a torn deckle border, or interesting texture, floating lets those elements stand out instead of hiding them behind matting or borders.
3. To Create a Casual, Airy Vibe
Floating prints often feel more relaxed and informal, perfect for family rooms, bedrooms, or creative studios where you want openness and creativity.
4. In Low-Traffic or Low-Light Areas
Since floating displays lack protective glass, they’re best suited for rooms where there’s less exposure to physical contact or sunlight — think personal nooks, reading corners, or office walls.
Mixing Framed and Floating Styles for a Dynamic Look
You don’t have to choose just one display style — combining both framed and floating prints adds variety and texture to your walls.
Balance Formality and Relaxation
Use framed prints to bring structure to areas like entryways or above fireplaces, and float smaller or more abstract pieces around them to keep the look relaxed and layered.
Build a Gallery Wall with Contrast
Mixing framed and floating pieces on a gallery wall creates visual interest and hierarchy. Anchor the arrangement with a large framed piece, and orbit smaller floating prints around it for dimension.
Create a Visual Flow Across Rooms
Carry both styles throughout your home to create rhythm. Float prints in informal areas like bedrooms, then transition to frames in shared spaces for a natural visual journey through your interiors.
Practical Tips for Choosing and Installing Display Styles
Whether you opt for framing, floating, or both, a few best practices will help your art look stunning and stay in great shape.
Choose Frame Styles That Match Your Space
- Wooden frames offer warmth and richness — great for rustic, boho, or traditional interiors.
- Metal frames add polish to modern and industrial styles.
- Neutral frames (white, black, natural wood) offer flexibility for future styling changes.
Mount Floating Prints Securely
Floating can be achieved with:
- Shadow box frames (for a “hovering within the frame” effect)
- Standoff mounts (for prints directly mounted on the wall)
- Adhesive systems (for a no-frame, seamless look — best for lightweight art)
Ensure all floating prints are level and properly supported to prevent sagging or damage.
Protect and Maintain Your Displays
- Keep framed prints out of direct sunlight to prevent fading.
- Use microfiber cloths to gently clean glass or acrylic fronts.
- For floating prints, handle with care during installation and dust lightly when needed.
Conclusion: Let the Art — and the Display — Tell the Story
Choosing between framed and floating displays comes down to your space, your style, and the story you want your artwork to tell. Framing offers elegance, structure, and protection — perfect for formal settings and valuable prints. Floating displays offer openness, modern flair, and visual lightness — ideal for minimalist designs and relaxed environments.
Don’t be afraid to mix both in a single room or across your home. By using each display style strategically, you can create a gallery that feels cohesive, intentional, and uniquely yours.
Looking for inspiration?
Explore our curated collection of framed and floating-ready art prints — each one designed to bring personality and style to your space.
