13 inspiring gallery wall ideas to add character, personality and style to any room

A long-established way of decorating the home, you can count on a gallery wall to showcase your tastes and style. Whether you're scattering pictures of all sizes or aiming for exactitude with a selection of matching prints, gallery walls come in many forms and can be just what an empty area needs.

No matter what wall decor idea you decide on (there's more to it than simply decorating with art), there are many ways to create an impactful gallery wall that honors your interior design style.

If you're an eclectic decorator who wants to impress with a feature wall of prized pictures, these gallery wall ideas have you covered. Fear not if your tastes edge towards the minimal, as there's plenty of inspiration that ticks the curated look, too.

These are the 13 best gallery wall ideas to inspire you to fill any blank canvas, large or tiny, with exuberant life.

1. Take a mix and match approach to art and framing

One of the most classic gallery wall methods is mixing and matching artwork. The beauty of this technique is its variation; it allows you to combine all your favorite pieces in one place.

Although there's always debate around 'should gallery wall frames match?', there's no set rule on coordinating your pieces. To create a gallery wall that avoids looking outdated, focus on mixing different styles of artwork as well as mismatched frames, rather than following a strict formula: 'I think the gallery wall should be less matchy-matchy and more of a curated collection,' says Lauren Sullivan, Founder and Principal Designer at Well x Design. 'Think modern art mixed with vintage paintings, or black and white prints of family and friends paired with special keepsakes cased in vintage frames.'

'To really make your gallery wall stand out and maximize its visual intrigue, you’ll want to incorporate a variety of contrasting design elements,' agrees Olma Fuentes, Principal and Founder at Deni + Dove Interiors. 'Consider adding varying art in distinct styles and textures – fine art prints mixed with hand-painted pieces that are hung both horizontally and vertically, as well as different colored frames and canvas sizes.'

2. Experiment with scale

If you're hoping to create a real statement with a gallery wall, then opt for a more maximalist decor approach. The key to an effortless display is a mixture of picture sizes that are balanced by their careful positioning, ensuring that smaller frames are scattered in between the larger canvases.

‘It’s important to play with scale when displaying a collection. Varying the sizes helps to emphasize each item, and the shadows created become very interesting,’ says Henriette Von Stockhausen, founder of VSP Interiors. Try mixing and matching different frames for a more eclectic display. 'You can never have too much art,' she adds.

To help you ensure your pictures are aligned, invest in a good tape measure like this metal one from Amazon.

3. Group together a collection vintage finds

The most interesting gallery walls aren't 2D. Instead of being made up of just framed prints, they are wall-mounted collections that add character to a room, something unexpected. We've seen examples that use hats, chopping boards, plates (more on this later), fans, lights, and all manner of curiosities.

'This area is in a guest bedroom where the chest of drawers doubles up as a dressing table surface. This collection of hung mirrors is an alternative for art whilst also providing functional use for guests,' explains Liv Wallers, co-founder of Yellow London. 'We love wall hangings too and often hang large Suzanis or tapestries in our projects.'

Decorate with antiques for a unique display, and look for different shapes, sizes, colors, and materials to create a gallery wall that has real depth.

4. Create symmetry

While eclectic interior trends favor a more mismatched look, sometimes symmetry is what a space needs, particularly in more minimalist interiors.

If you want to embrace a more symmetrical look when displaying artwork, use the wall as a reference for the shape of the pieces you choose to display. Luis Carmona, founder of VERDE Interior Design, explains that this will help create a balanced feel: 'For a gallery wall with more symmetry, try having the shape of all of the art and photographs mimic the shape of the wall that it is on. This creates a more balanced appearance. Having all of the frames the same distance from each other, typically about three inches, also helps the gallery wall look more strategic and less chaotic.'

Or, opt for an asymmetric look rather than having a perfectly symmetrical and regimented display. 'To update the traditional gallery wall, try experimenting with asymmetry, mixing various frame sizes and shapes,' suggests Jennifer Davis, Principal Designer at Davis Interiors. Play around with the layout of your frames before hanging; try out evenly spaced rows and columns, or experiment with asymmetrical formations for something a little different – great for accent wall ideas.

5. Showcase your tastes and personality

Although it may seem obvious, it's important to choose art that feels meaningful. A gallery wall's purpose is not only to fill an empty space, but to inspire its viewer.

Curate your own gallery wall by hanging artwork together as a cluster. Decide which paintings, prints or fabric will anchor the scheme, then take your decorating cues from them. In Elizabeth Hay's home (pictured above), the designer uses a mix of inherited heirlooms, art gathered from her travels, and her own pieces to create a unique look.

Don't be too particular with what you choose to display on your gallery wall, but create an eclectic look with items that make your home feel like you. 'Have fun with your gallery wall,' says Olma. 'Designing your wall in a way that showcases your personality and interests will come across as most authentic and undoubtedly spark conversation with your guests.'

The best part about a gallery wall is that it should constantly evolve. Rather than setting out to complete a gallery wall from the start, let it take shape over time by incorporating different pieces you collect over the years. This is the easiest and most authentic way to master the eclectic, maximalist decor trend.

6. Create a gallery wall in the kitchen

A room that can sometimes edge towards the stark and cold, a gallery wall might be the answer to making the kitchen feel more characterful. Now, this may not seem like the most sensible space for displaying an expensive art collection, but done right, it could be your most admired. Many would argue that kitchen art ideas are just as important as art in any other room.

While you can hang your art wherever you see fit, a gallery wall above the backsplash or perched on a shelf away from the sink or stove will provide impact but also feel practical. However, you should speak to a specialist framer before doing so. ‘Objects you might not notice, such as kettles and radiators, can cause damage,’ says Daniel Syrett, Runway Gallery owner. ‘If the artwork is going to go in a kitchen or bathroom, it needs to be sealed in a particular way.’ Or alternatively choose more afforable pieces that you won't mind facing the wear and tear of a kitchen.

7. Pick a theme

If you want your gallery wall to feel not only cohesive but also represent a specific idea or concept, consider a theme for the display.

Mariana Silveira, The_decor_studio on Instagram, says, 'This gallery (pictured above) was originally a women’s theme. Female nudes and portraits. But it has evolved as I have and as I’ve come across great quality work. It also includes sentimental items. Like the clay peace sign that my daughter made when she was ten, at the start of the pandemic.'

Mariana shares her top tips for picture styling. 'I always start in the center of the wall, with my bigger piece, and expand from there. I find that that is the only way for it not to look awkward while in the process. You can always change that one central piece once your gallery has some form. Top to bottom is my personal favorite and the one that makes more impact in my opinion.'

8. Use vintage frames and prints

If you thought gallery walls only work in contemporary homes, think again. Decorating with vintage art is a classically traditional way to create a gallery wall and can give a room a sense of elegance and grandeur.

‘I like to source unique pieces from shops and markets on my travels and collect tableware, objects, and books to display – it’s these accessories that add personality to a space,’ says Interior Designer Natalia Miyar.

Thrifting expert Rachel Leonard Kennedy says she collects vintage portraits. 'Because I get so many comments on my “people portraits,” when I have guests over, I have decided to start another series to create a gallery wall with. For example, I choose paintings and sketches that speak to me in some way. The expression on the person’s face, or the color palette the artist used, catches my eye and makes me feel connected to the person in some way. You can always tell which portraits were lovingly painted by someone who knew the subject well, as they always depict the subject with a soft smile and their eyes looking directly at you, which is an expression I find to be very charming and genuine.'

Vintage art can transform a plain wall, not to mention it's an affordable thrift store buy that will make your home look more expensive. Vintage prints and paintings can give a room an eclectic charm and patina, something that newer built properties would welcome.

9. Find one common thread

A successful gallery wall is always united by one common thread. It might be an accent color that runs throughout, a frame style that is dominant, the style of photo or picture featured, or a regularity in size or shape. However, that doesn't mean that contrasting styles can't be introduced – just use the contrast as an accent rather than having equal amounts of different styles.

Suppose you do want to maintain some level of cohesion. In that case, you can use color trends to unite the mismatched gallery wall, as Jennifer Davis suggests: 'Thematic cohesion or color schemes can be used to maintain a harmonious visual flow within the diverse elements. This strategic curation ties together the various pieces, ensuring that amidst the diversity, there's an overarching unity to the display.'

10. Use plate racks to display your best crockery

Plates as wall decor are often considered to be a bit fussy. But the look is making a big comeback in interior design trends and can be a lovely alternative to a more traditional gallery wall that uses artwork. Why hide all your nicest crockery away in the kitchen when you can get it out and turn it into gorgeous decor?

'Gallery walls can be used with any type of collection,' explains Sara Johson of Sara Johnson Interiors 'In this room, we used our client's collection of blue and white plates and leaned them on an antique plate rack. It's a useful and beautiful way to fill wall space and a unique alternative to art or family photos.'

And don't just reserve them for the dining room wall or kitchen wall, treat them like any other artwork and use them to add something unexpected to a bathroom too. We have seen some lovely examples of plates mounted above headboards too.

The Summerville Reversible Rail Ledge from Pottery Barn is a sophisticated choice that would look beautiful with a row of vintage plates or dishes.

11. Or just mount plates directly on to the walls

And for a look that's even closer to a traditional gallery wall, mount a collection of plates directly onto the wall as in this dining room designed by Samantha Todhunter.

'The plates were part of our client's vintage collection and we added to it from antique fairs, we put them to good use above the dresser, giving a fresher and 'site appropriate' look,' explains Samantha.

'Gallery and accent walls will always have a place, but it depends on the feel of the space, we often lean more towards over-scaling and drama with art, but here, it was all about a fun, versatil,e and relaxed feel, something that fitted in with the tone of the original building. If you collect something, it's worth putting it on show so you can get the most enjoyment out of it, and it helps to create a room that is interesting and layered.'

12. Design bespoke built ins for a minimalist approach

Built-in cubby shelving can be a perfect gallery wall alternative if you like a more minimalist vibe, and if you want to add in some extra storage too. For the best look, we'd say take the shelving floor-to-ceiling and paint to match the wall colors so it blends in visually with the rest of the room.

'This space is adjacent to the main living room, and it was originally a bar area that didn't make much sense where it was located. Our client requested shelving that was beautifully styled and we jumped at the opportunity to maximize the ceiling height and take the shelves all the way up.' explains Lauren Lerner, principal designer and CEO of Living with Lolo.

You have more flexibility with living room shelving too, you can switch it out easily and totally change the look as your tastes and home decor trends change.

13. Reflect light with a gallery wall of mirrors

A favorite is to decorate with mirrors. They add shape, texture, and light to a room and look wonderful when brought together on a gallery wall. Plus, they have a function too, so they make sense in a bathroom or a bedroom.

Jennifer suggests, 'Incorporate unconventional elements like mirrors or shadow boxes amidst the art. These elements can infuse a sense of depth, inviting the viewer to explore the collection in a more immersive way.'

Sometimes the frames make more of a statement than the artwork or, in this case, the mirrors within. Here, their striking shapes create a strong impact, while the warm patina blends well with the soothing tones of this bedroom by Rebecca Hughes Interiors.

Are gallery walls still in style?

'Gallery walls are still on trend,' says Irene Gunter. 'Making your home feel like your own often involves adding your own personal touches, and what better way to do this than with a gallery wall? While the classic three-by-three arrangement is often visually pleasing due to its symmetry, there's always the option to switch things up and hang pictures in a more random manner. Don't be afraid to try something new and experiment with different configurations until you find one that feels just right.'

'Gallery walls have been around for centuries, and they’re not going away anytime soon,' agrees Olma Fuentes. 'They’re such an eye-catching way to display artwork and create a unique focal point since no two walls are ever the same. As your collection grows and your art preferences evolve, your wall gallery can easily be updated to reflect those changes.'

'Gallery walls are timeless,' agrees Jennifer. 'They might evolve in style, but they remain a fantastic way to showcase art and meaningful photos, and mementos.'

'Gallery walls are not necessarily going out of style, but the way that they are now displayed in your home has evolved,' agrees Luis. 'The days of matching photo frames are gone, and the era of a more eclectic aesthetic has arrived.'

Before you begin creating your wall display, be aware of these gallery wall mistakes designers warn you to avoid. Or, if you are considering other ways to refresh your home decor, experts say these are the most outdated wall decor trends that you may want to steer clear of in 2025.