Everyday Design Dilemma : Gallery Walls Part 1 ~ How to Plan your Gallery Wall
A common problem I see many people fret over is hanging art, especially a gallery of art. Sometimes people miss the mark by creating galleries that are too small, too scattered, or that simply just don't jive. But have no fear! I'm here to help! As I have been planning and installing my own gallery wall, I thought this would be the perfect opportunity to address this common design dilemma and walk you through some options to help you plan your own fabulous art installation! I've decided to break it down into 3 parts with the reveal of my finished gallery wall in the final part.
First things first, you need to decide what kind of gallery wall you would like to have, and what kind of art you are going to frame. Would you like something that is very symmetric with the same frames repeated?
via Samantha Pynn
Would you like to have all the same color frames? All white, black, ...
via Emily A. Clark
...or gold? What kind of art are you planning on framing? Notice how the black and white photos really pop in the all white frames and mats? If this more symmetrical style is the route you choose, you are better off to frame a series of photos or prints that coordinate nicely, and choose a frame and mat that really accentuate the art being framed.
via BHG
How about an asymmetrical installation? You can really mix and match your frame color, style and art in this type of gallery. You can mix photos with prints,
via Habitually Chic
frame style and color,
via Lonny
or even incorporate unframed art into your gallery.
via Young House Love
How about mixing it up with the addition of some mirrors?!
Kate Spade via The Hunted Interior
Hey...this looks familiar!
You could go in a completely different direction and instead of hanging the art to the wall, you could layer frames along some photo ledges.
via Macho Turbo
What style is your favorite?!
Once you have decided what kind of gallery you would like, it's time to go shopping! If all co-ordinating frames are your thing, you can get some really nice affordable pieces from Pottery Barn, West Elm, or even IKEA. Just remember to keep in mind what you are framing. Take the art or photograph with you to the store if possible to get the best frame for your piece.
If a more eclectic mix is what you are after, hunt your local thrift stores and garage sales for some old frames that you can mix in with some new. If the frame is not the right color, a quick boost of spray paint will easily fix that! Since this look is more undefined, it is also a bit more flexible. You can always choose your frames first, then add prints or photos to fit later.
Any guesses which direction I chose?! Stay tuned for next week as I discuss tips on hanging and installing your gallery!
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