Declutter your gallery wall—here's the simple way to do it
What's the story
A well-curated gallery wall turns a blank room into a beautiful reflection of your personality. But, if it is too cluttered, it loses its charm. "The secret to a great gallery wall is to create variety without overcomplicating it." This article provides useful tips on how to declutter your gallery wall, so that it adds beauty to your space without overpowering it.
Focal point
Choose a focal point
Every gallery wall needs a statement piece, a show-stopping artwork or photograph that immediately draws the eye and serves as the anchor for the rest of the display. Start by choosing one standout piece that you absolutely love and then build around it. This method keeps things from getting too cluttered by limiting the number of competing elements on your wall.
Color scheme
Limit your color palette
A simple trick to create harmony and minimize visual chaos is to stick to a limited color palette. Pick two to three dominant colors from your focal artwork and choose other pieces that echo these shades. This approach not only streamlines your gallery wall but also establishes a more cohesive aesthetic.
Media mix
Mix media with moderation
Adding a mix of media types to your gallery wall can greatly increase its visual appeal, introducing layers of interest and texture. However, too much variety can create visual clutter. To strike a balance and avoid a chaotic look, stick to artworks in two or three different mediums, like paintings, prints, and photographs. This way, your display will still be exciting and dynamic, without being overwhelming or too busy.
Frame style
Consider frame consistency
Frames play a crucial role in achieving a cohesive look for your gallery wall. Opting for frames with the same color or material unifies disparate pieces and reduces visual clutter. If you want some diversity, pick two frame styles or colors and alternate between them. This way, you can maintain a harmonious and visually pleasing arrangement without it becoming overwhelming due to too much variety.
Spacing
Leave breathing room
One big no-no is cramming a bunch of stuff onto your gallery wall. It'll feel cluttered no matter how carefully you've chosen your pieces. Make sure there's plenty of space around each piece so they don't all run into each other—aim for at least a couple of inches apart. Giving each piece some breathing room lets them shine on their own while still being part of a group.