As the demand for staying at home increases, homeowners have interpreted this moment as a chance to do some home renovations and crafty home projects. Tossing aside the expectation of what a house should look like, employees working from home are updating their spaces in ways that channel their creative expression. While some homeowners are investing in huge kitchen and bathroom renovations to maintain a neat and home free from molds, some are doing do-it-yourself projects. Their homes have become not just a space for dwelling, but one they can mold with their artistic talents.
Whether you are living in a small apartment or a country estate – everyone is eventually confronted with the difficult decision of what to do with a blank wall. Sometimes, a bare wall can appear fresh to the eyes but more often than not, boring. But those empty walls are filled with possibilities, add a few statement pieces, you now have a stylish gallery wall.
Nothing is more visually intriguing in a home quite like a gallery wall. It is a group of artworks, photographs, and personal pieces arranged cohesively to ramp up your walls. Discover these easy DIY gallery wall ideas to refresh your space.
1. Source some art
No matter what your style is – minimalist or whimsical, nature enthusiast or a book lover, art collector, or photographer, your walls can be customized as to your liking. The first step to designing a good gallery is to get pieces of art from your collection and pick the ones that look nice together. You’ll want some variety and consistency when curating. Variety can be accomplished by choosing art in different styles: sketch, painting, photograph, framed ephemera, and so forth. As with consistency, you can follow a certain theme and color palette: black and white, Scandinavian, industrial, and modern to mention a few. Let colors flow in your wall and if you can’t decide, you can start with neutral colors.
You can source pieces of art from your local artists, some wall decors such as world maps, picture frames, large prints, and panels can also be purchased in retail shops. Before pinning it on the wall, lay your artwork out on the floor and arrange them until you like the arrangement you are looking at.
2. Create your artwork
If you’re up to some DIY projects and have the resources and time, you can create your artwork for your wall gallery. For starters, a collection of framed photographs can do the trick but if you are looking for an eye-catching setup you can opt for an oversized piece of art. Have a large canvass and make an abstract painting using your color of choice. It doesn’t have to be perfect; the goal is to have an artwork that speaks your voice. Start with a focal piece and then add in the things you cherish like postcards from your vacations, unique antique plates, and portraits. Personalize your wall by showcasing sentimental family heirlooms and treasured photos over the years. Putting the pieces you love on display would also be great conversation starters should you have visitors come over.
3. Hang mirrors
Perhaps the easiest way to dress up a blank wall is by hanging a mirror. Mirrors have the power to open up space and make it appear bigger and brighter. Try hanging large-scale mirrors to add depth while reflecting off the light to the room, or display several smaller pieces together as part of a gallery. It is important to remember that one of the keys to a good design is balance. Round mirrors are a versatile option if you are to incorporate the mirror with other decorative pieces. Round shapes bring harmony and elegance wherever you put them. This addition will surely add to the wall’s aesthetic appeal.
4. Install Shelves
Floating shelves would be a great addition to your wall gallery. Not only it is simple and practical, but it will also allow you to display stuff you cannot hang such as books, mug collections, candles, and souvenir items. You can also take it a step further by pairing these exposed shelves with framed art. It is an easy way to simultaneously display your favorite pieces and cover a plain boring wall. The good thing with shelves, you do not have to worry about having to put so many nails on your wall.
5. Bring in plants
If you are hunting for additional pieces to put on your gallery wall, consider adding plants. Plants don’t always have to sit on pots near a window. Try hanging or using a wall-mounted plant holder to add a bit of nature and life to your space. If you are lucky enough to have ample light in the room, you could also build a living wall to feature an array of greenery. It’s a beautiful backdrop to a neutral space.
Fresh greenery can bring warmth and comfort to your space. Not only it brightens up and make an area more attractive, but it can also purify the air, encourage productivity, and help reduce stress. Further, adding plants help you manage your carbon emission. When deciding to install a living wall choose eco-friendly materials and consider plants that are easy to care for.
6. Add functional pieces
Decorating a large blank wall can be a challenge especially if the room doubles as a workspace. A supersized everyday work essential like a whiteboard, a calendar, or a corkboard is a perfect functional addition to your wall gallery.
Instead of hiding your work-related stuff, put them on display. Layering home décor and work essentials help put the home in the home office. Whiteboards make it easy for you to take notes, while a corkboard could serve as a mood board where you can pin all sorts of photos, notes, and other interesting things. A large calendar on the other hand will help you keep track of your events while also adding an exceptional element to jazz up a wall.
7. Incorporate unconventional textures
A tapestry, good rug, or macrame wall hangings is a fun way to add texture and pops of color to any wall. Hanging your favorite textile will make any space feel well designed. Whether it is placed right behind a sofa or along with other wall decors, this wall-filler will add style and quirk to any home. There are so many ways to add character and depth to a gallery wall therefore do not limit yourself with paintings and frames. These unique stylings will make your home feel one-of-a-kind.
