This trend has been going strong for years, and for good reason: It’s a great way to showcase your interests, display souvenirs, and give a room some color. But Potts says that there’s a trick to a successful gallery wall, and it comes down to planning. “Make sure there is enough hierarchy in color or size where a viewer’s eyes can clearly understand what should be highlighted versus what’s filler,” he says.
3. Install moldings
If you have a bright sofa, patterned rug, or intricate lighting, perhaps the best plan of action is to install molding on a wall. “Moldings, instead of things, can be just as effective at demarcating space and allow the eye to breathe,” Potts says. Plus, if you’re into Parisian style, this is an easy way to incorporate that effortlessly sophisticated look into your home, and art is optional.
4. Hang the opposite of your architecture
A home’s balance is often achieved through the details, and one way to make sure that you’ve followed through on this is by juxtaposing opposite aesthetics with your wall decor. Potts likes to do this through art, either by hanging contemporary pieces in picture frames to contrast with a more traditional home, or by installing more classic works within a newer setting. “Old masters can look amazing in modern spaces,” he says.
5. Be strategic about accent walls
Accent walls can be a great way to add visual interest to your room, but to prevent the feature from looking dated or out of place, there are a few wall decor ideas you can use to blend them in. Designer Dabito of Old Brand New says that if you want to bring attention to one wall in a room, here’s how to make it happen: “If you’re going to paint an accent wall, complement it with decor like art or a screen divider to ensure that it integrates seamlessly without standing out like a sore thumb,” he says.
6. Mix it up with mirrors
Because mirrors reflect light, they make a small area feel bigger and brighter—while also acting as a statement piece. Hanging a large mirror proportional to the surrounding furniture, like above a console or bookcase, is usually the best bet. But you could make a gallery wall out of mirrors too. Just make sure they all share a component to make everything cohesive.
7. Install built-in bookshelves
