Would you want to turn a blank wall into a stunning visual story? Here I share how to create a gallery wall.
Gallery walls are one of the easiest ways to add personality and charm to your home. Whether you’re showcasing family memories, favorite art pieces, or a mix of both. A well-curated gallery wall can completely transform a space.
You will find adding a gallery wall is such a beautiful way to express yourself visually and artistically. Follow this step-by-step guide on how to create a gallery wall that feels cohesive, stylish, and totally you.
1. Choose the Right Wall
Before you start hanging your favorite frames on the wall, you need to pick the perfect spot. Great gallery wall locations include:
- Living room or above the sofa or my personal favorite a TV gallery wall
- Hallways or staircases
- Bedroom above the headboard
- Entryway or foyer
Look for a wall that is visible and has enough space to let your art stand out without the space feeling overwhelmed.
I personally chose to include our tv as part of our gallery wall. This design idea, which is a very popular one, is great for small spaces or limited in wall space. As a result, you are able to use your gallery wall for entertainment when the TV is on and as a visual display of art when your TV is off.
2. Decide on a Theme or Style
Besides the location of your gallery wall, it is equally important when a gallery wall looks and feels intentional. Here are some ways to achieve this. Consider a unifying element like:
- Color scheme (black & white, earthy tones, pastels)
- Frame style (all black, all gold, or mix & match)
- Art type (family photos, line drawings, typography, or abstract art)
It’s totally okay to mix things up—just aim for balance and flow. The key is to express your personality and for you to enjoy what you will showcase.
3. Gather Your Art
Now comes the fun part: selecting what goes on your wall. You can include:
- Photographs (family, travel, pets)
- Art prints or illustrations
- Quotes or typography
- Mirrors or small decorative objects
- Kids’ artwork or DIY pieces
Try to have a variety of sizes and shapes for more visual interest.
4. Plan Your Gallery Wall Layout
Gallery walls can feel overwhelming if not planned and executed well. Lay everything out on the floor before you start hammering nails as this will help you visualize the final look. You can also:
- Trace your frames on craft paper and tape them to the wall
- Use painter’s tape to map out your layout
- Start with the largest piece in the center and build around it
- Keep 2–3 inches of space between frames for a clean look
Snap a photo of your layout so you can refer back to it while hanging. I used my living room floor to try out different ideas. I also used very thin tissue paper and made cut outs of all the frames I finally decided on and then actually taped them on the wall.
My final layout looks very different from the one I initially thought I was going to use. I also tried different frames until I found what I felt looked best for the area. The key is to take your time and play around with different ideas.
5. Hang It Up
Use the right tools depending on your wall type (nails, picture hangers, or adhesive strips). Here are a few tips that will help you when you are ready to put your frames up:
- Use a level to keep everything straight
- Start from the center and work your way out
- Step back often to check the overall balance
- Don’t stress over perfection—imperfections add charm!
6. Add Personal Touches to Your Gallery Wall
Once your gallery wall is up, add little accents around it to make it feel intentional:
- A console table with candles or books
- A cozy chair or plant nearby
- A picture light or wall sconces for extra lighting
This makes the whole space feel more curated and inviting.
Creating a gallery wall is a simple way to express your style and tell your story. Don’t be afraid to get creative and let your personality shine through. Start small if you’re nervous, and build over time. The best gallery walls evolve with you.
Happy decorating!
xo, Julia
