When I moved into my new apartment after a lengthy and extremely traumatic breakup, I was determined to have every inch of my space reflect my taste and make me smile. No more compromising on colors, long conversations explaining why I need so many pillows, or how my 88 candles are not excessive at all lol.
One of my favorite additions to my home was the addition of my gallery wall. I know the idea of a gallery wall isn't new or revolutionary, but I still think people underestimate how quickly this classic décor idea can transform your home and show your personality.
People who like to embrace and cherish their individuality often seek to surround themselves with meaningful pictures and memories and I'm no exception. My gallery wall serves as a visual tapestry, weaving together my favorite boudoir picture, some DIY art, and paintings that speak to me.
Here are the steps I took to build my gallery wall that are sure to help you find an arrangement that suits your style.
Step 1: Decide Gallery Wall Style, Curate Your Collection: First things first, pick what kind of wall you want. There are so many different options when building your gallery wall take some time to do some research on Pinterest or Google for layouts that appeal to you.
Do you want to only display pictures or artwork?
Do you want to have a regimented grid pattern?
Do you prefer a scattered eclectic look?
Do you want to incorporate mirrors, wall art, shelves or tchotchkes?
Knowing what style gallery wall works for your home is the first step to gathering the items to fill the desired space.
In my case, I chose a mix of art, mirrors, and photographs along with some accents to show my style. Drawing inspiration from your travels, fashion icons, favorite quotes, and cherished memories to assemble a diverse assortment of visual treasures is a sure way to build a collection that will speak to you and feel authentic.
Step 2: Find Your Focal Point:
Every gallery wall needs a focal point—a centerpiece that anchors the arrangement and sets the tone for the entire display. Choose a standout piece—a large-scale artwork, a striking photograph, or a statement mirror—that captures your attention and serves as the focal point of your gallery composition.
On my wall, I chose a picture from an old photoshoot that makes me happy every time I see it. Position this focal piece slightly off-center or at eye level to create visual balance and draw the viewer's gaze.
Step 3: Plan Your Layout and Get Creative:
Before hammering any nails, take time to plan the layout of your gallery wall. Lay out your collection on the floor or a large table to experiment with different arrangements and compositions. Consider factors such as scale, spacing, balance, and symmetry as you play with various configurations.
Embrace creativity and experiment as you determine the placement of each piece within your gallery wall composition. Play with asymmetrical arrangements, overlapping frames, and unexpected pairings to add depth and visual interest to your display.
Consider incorporating decorative elements such as wall-mounted shelves, hanging planters, or string lights to enhance the ambiance and dimension of your gallery wall.
For my wall, I decided to add some washi tape accents to bring some depth to my wallpaper background. Using this simple tape was an easy way for me to add some more color and highlight the assortment of items I chose to include.
Step 5: Bring It to Life:
Once you've finalized your layout, it's time to bring your gallery wall to life! Grab your hammer, nails, level, and picture-hanging hardware, and start hanging your curated collection according to your planned arrangement.
Seeing your wall come together as each piece is added, is an immediate boost to both your mood and to your room.
Creating a personalized gallery wall is not just about decorating your home—it's about curating a visual narrative that celebrates your life's journey, passions, and dreams. It's a testament to the power of self-expression and the beauty of surrounding yourself with meaningful reminders of who you are and where you've been. So gather your favorite treasures, unleash your creativity, and let your gallery wall become a captivating reflection of your unique identity and style.
Until next time, happy decorating!
You have a real gift here. Please continue to share with us.