What is a Gallery Wall?

A gallery wall is more than just a collection of pictures — it’s a curated display of art, photography, and personal pieces that together form a striking visual story. Popular in both modern and traditional interiors, gallery walls are one of the most versatile design trends.

They allow homeowners to show personality by combining different types of artwork while filling large, empty walls in a way that feels intentional. Whether arranged symmetrically for a clean, polished look or organically for a more relaxed, eclectic vibe, gallery walls are an art form in themselves.

The trend has stood the test of time because it’s adaptable. It works just as well in a sleek city apartment as it does in a cozy family home. And best of all — there are no strict rules. With the right approach, anyone can achieve a gallery wall that feels stylish and unique.

Planning Your Layout

Before you start hammering nails into the wall, it’s essential to plan your gallery wall layout. There are two main approaches:

• Symmetrical layouts work best for modern and minimalist spaces. They rely on clean lines and equal spacing, giving a sense of order. Think grids of identical frames or balanced rows.
  
• Organic layouts lean toward eclectic interiors. They mix frame sizes and orientations, spreading outward in an asymmetrical yet cohesive flow. These are great for showcasing different art types and styles.
  

Pro Tip: Use Mockups

• Floor layout: Place your frames on the floor first to experiment with spacing and composition.
  
• Paper cutouts: Tape paper templates to the wall to visualize size and placement.
  
• Digital tools: Apps and design programs can help create mockups before you commit.
  

Taking the time to plan avoids unnecessary holes in the wall and ensures the arrangement feels balanced.

Choosing Art Types

The strength of a gallery wall lies in the variety of pieces you include. Mixing different forms creates interest and tells a richer story.

• Photography: Black-and-white portraits or travel photos add personal touches.
  
• Canvas Art: Bold abstract prints or calming nature-inspired pieces create focal points.
  
• Quotes & Typography: Short, inspiring quotes in modern fonts can bring energy and personality.
  
• Personal Items: Postcards, children’s drawings, or small textiles add uniqueness.
  

For cohesion, try to maintain at least one unifying element — whether that’s color, subject matter, or art style.

Matching Frames and Colors

Even in an eclectic gallery wall, visual unity is key. Frames and colors are the glue that holds everything together.

• Frame Style: Choose consistent frame types for a polished look (all black, all wood) or mix intentionally (a balance of gold, wood, and white frames).
  
• Matting: White mats can create breathing room around smaller prints, especially when paired with bold or colorful artwork.
  
• Color Scheme: Stick to a palette of 2–3 dominant colors. This prevents the wall from feeling chaotic while allowing variety.
  

For example, a gallery wall with earthy-toned abstract prints in oak frames and muted photography will feel harmonious, even if the art styles differ.

Hanging Tips

Once your layout is set and your pieces are chosen, it’s time to hang them like a professional.

• Height: Aim to center the gallery wall at eye level, typically 57–60 inches from the floor to the middle of the arrangement.
  
• Spacing: Leave 2–3 inches between frames. Consistency here makes even organic layouts feel intentional.
  
• Tools: Use a tape measure, level, and painter’s tape to mark spots before drilling. For renters, consider removable wall hooks.
  
• Anchor the Wall: Start with the largest piece in the center or at the bottom and build around it. This creates a focal point and keeps the design grounded.
  

Taking a step back regularly as you hang each piece ensures the overall composition looks balanced.

Shop Curated Gallery Wall Sets

At TemperaArt, we make styling your gallery wall effortless with thoughtfully assembled gallery wall sets. These collections combine multiple coordinated prints—varying in size and design—to help you achieve a professionally curated look with minimal effort.

Here are a couple of standout options:

• Thomas Cole “The Course of Empire” Canvas Print Set – A compelling arrangement featuring Cole’s powerful historical landscapes. Ideal for creating a dramatic focal wall with timeless storytelling appeal.
  
• Edmund Blair Leighton “God Speed & The Accolade” Canvas Prints Set – Romantic and evocative, this pair brings elegant narrative scenes to life—perfect for spaces that benefit from a touch of soft sophistication.
  

Each set is printed with eco-friendly inks on premium canvas and arrives ready-to-hang (framing options available), so you can create a stylish and cohesive gallery wall effortlessly.

Final Thought

Designing a gallery wall doesn’t have to be intimidating. With careful planning, thoughtful selection of art, and attention to detail in framing and spacing, you can transform a blank wall into a meaningful focal point.

Whether you prefer symmetry or an eclectic mix, a gallery wall tells a story — your story. And with ready-made sets from TemperaArt, achieving that polished, professional look has never been easier.