Planning a gallery wall – where do you start when arranging frames? 

A wall doesn't have to be empty, especially in a minimalist interior – you certainly won't overdo it there. How do you plan a frame layout on a wall? It depends on how much space you have, but also on where your furniture is placed. Today you'll learn the secrets of a successful composition that will give your living room or bedroom an individual character.

Gallery wall behind the bed in the bedroom

Planning a gallery wall – where do you start when arranging frames? 

Whether you're decorating a living room, bedroom or kids' room, you need to get the frame composition on the wall right. Start by marking where you'll drill holes to hang the frames. Of course, you can also choose to hang them with mounting tape, but in that case, too, planning the frame layout should start with roughly marking the area where they'll be displayed. You can do this with a tape measure and pencil or a laser level. If you're going to drill, remember to choose a spot on the wall where no electrical wiring runs. If you're wondering how to create a photo gallery wall, you can go for symmetry or asymmetry, and also check out the practical tips on our blog.          

Kids' wall decals and birth posters with your child's name and favorite storybook character
Kids' wall decals and birth posters with your child's name and favorite storybook character

How to choose the size, color and material of frames for a gallery wall? 

The size of the frames should suit the gallery wall you want to create, so think about how many prints, photos, sketches or other items you want to display in frames. You can choose frame colors that contrast with the wall color so they stand out against it. So black or brown frames look best on a white wall. On a gray wall, white frames will stand out. Of course, for both modern and traditional interiors, a great choice is wooden frames. If you're decorating a baby's room, the frame can hold a baby birth poster, and next to it, photos from both the pregnancy and the first days of life. It's also worth choosing kids' room posters in frames that add coziness to the room – that is, with wooden frames and children's artwork.    

The most interesting frame layouts – a roundup of inspiration 

If you want to know how to arrange frames on a wall, we're here to help. Check out this roundup of ideas you can use in the living room, bedroom or kids' room. How should you hang frames on a wall? Frames can be arranged in lines, with intersecting lines, or to form geometric shapes. It's worth getting to know trendy frame layouts. 

Symmetrical layout – a regular grid 

A symmetrical layout is simply arranging frames into a shape with right angles. Rectangular frames placed side by side can form a square or rectangle. This frame layout works perfectly on the wall above a living room seating area. It emphasizes geometry and harmony in the room.  

Asymmetrical layout – a relaxed yet balanced frame composition 

Another idea for arranging frames is an asymmetrical layout. Contrary to appearances, here too they can form a geometric composition, but it will be an irregular shape. Several frames can form a shape similar to a hexagon. Frames can also be scattered, forming, for example, a sunburst. This kind of photo layout definitely catches the eye and is well worth choosing, whether in the hallway or the living room. 

Linear layout – a trendy way to add proportion 

If you want to add proportion to a room, go for a linear frame layout. It's a classic arrangement you'll see in art galleries, for example. It's a great way to display frames with a passe-partout. They can show, for example, a sequence of events or landscapes that complement each other. This is also a great way to display floral wall posters, for instance in a Provençal or rustic living room. 

Central layout – the most important frame in the middle 

A central layout is another interesting idea. In this case, you choose one larger frame and arrange smaller frames around it so that the central frame is properly showcased. This is a great way to display photos from special occasions.  

Staircase layout – frames that follow the line of the stairs 

Arranging frames above stairs is often a challenge. Here are some ideas for creating a gallery wall in this spot. The frames can follow the line of the stairs, which means they'll be arranged asymmetrically, with each one a little higher than the last, following the staircase. This way, you can show off photos of everyone in the household, creating a family gallery.       

Mix and match! Unusual ways to create an original frame layout 

How do you create a successful gallery wall? The ideas we've presented can inspire you to create decorations in your own home. You can mix and match unusual frame layouts. Which pictures for the living room work best? It all depends on the design. You can choose nautical posters if you prefer Hamptons or Mediterranean style. If you're decorating in an industrial style, framed posters with vintage cars or airplanes could be a good fit. A frame layout on the wall should draw attention to the decor. You can go for frames forming the shape of a house..