Start by trying out the arrangement on the floor first and stand back to see how it looks and shift them around till you find the most pleasing balance and scale. For example, two vertical columns of three frames each, with the middle one at eye level, will make a space seem higher. The key to creating a cohesive gallery effect is keeping the frames' sizes, colors, and mats uniform. You can also try out the layout first by cutting templates of the frames out of cardboard or paper and hanging the shapes on the wall with tape first to create the desired arrangement. Then replace the paper with the real frames. That way you won't have to patch all the nail holes once you've finished. Trust me been there, done that.
Today’s groupings tend to be more interesting and varied than those of a few decades ago - some are very structured while others are freeform and a lot more innovative
The grouping to the right comes from Traditional Home magazine. There are a f
ew creative things going on here. First, the display carries from one wall onto another that projects out from it. Typically, we see groupings all on one plane so this is a unique look. Second, a shelf was incorporated into the grouping. This provides a resting spot for two of the frames as well as a place for a 3-dimensional object. Both the shelf and the fact that the art is leaning adds dimension to the grouping. Third, the frame at the lower left is sitting on the floor, leaning onto the wall. This is a great look, but avoid using it in confined areas where it might be a happy-hour hazard. If the shelf was removed and the stool was pushed back to the wall, it could become an easel of sorts, with art displayed on the seat, leaning against the front of it, or both.
ew creative things going on here. First, the display carries from one wall onto another that projects out from it. Typically, we see groupings all on one plane so this is a unique look. Second, a shelf was incorporated into the grouping. This provides a resting spot for two of the frames as well as a place for a 3-dimensional object. Both the shelf and the fact that the art is leaning adds dimension to the grouping. Third, the frame at the lower left is sitting on the floor, leaning onto the wall. This is a great look, but avoid using it in confined areas where it might be a happy-hour hazard. If the shelf was removed and the stool was pushed back to the wall, it could become an easel of sorts, with art displayed on the seat, leaning against the front of it, or both.
Balance vs symmetry: There are 2 collections of art displayed on each side of the fireplace. They are NOT symmetrical, but they still feel balanced. Not everyone has the luxury of buying ALL the frames they need for a collection like this all at once. It's much more likely that you would have collected all of these pieces over time, so the chances that you will have exact frames to create the same arrangement on each side of the fireplace is slim to none. So, instead you aim for balance. Do both arrangements look similar in size, shape, color, etc.
Mirrors on the wall: Not only can mirrors make a small room appear bigger, but mounting a matching assortment of them can create a stylish alternative to a large piece of art.
Planning and coordination are the keys to successful artwork displays. Here, Houston designer Kathy Andrews selected black-and-white and sepia-tone photos that have water as a common theme. “I had them all matted identically, and hung them in similar black frames,” she says. To create a balanced composition, first position the largest works, then add smaller ones, maintaining a similar amount of space between the frames. Use existing architectural details—doors, windows, and trim—as guides. The oil painting above the settee, for instance, is situated so that it tucks into a right angle formed by the molding.
Another great resource to designing gallery walls is Pottery Barn's Design Tips. Here is a link. Check it out! http://www.potterybarn.com/stylehouse/decorate/mem_wall/index.cfm?cm_type=snav
Just have fun and let your creativity flow. Or, if you need help, call me!
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