An Interior Designer’s Guide
When it comes to decorating your living room, the decision between opting for one large frame or creating a gallery wall can significantly impact the overall look and feel of the space. Both options offer unique aesthetics, but knowing which is right for your home depends on your personal style and room characteristics. As an interior designer, I’m here to help you weigh up the pros and cons of each choice.
One Big Frame: Bold and Striking
Choosing a single, large statement frame can instantly transform your living room. This approach works particularly well if you have a standout piece of art or a photograph that you want to highlight. Here’s why it might be the right choice for your living space:
1. Creates a Focal Point
A single large frame naturally draws attention and can serve as the focal point of your living room. Whether it’s a vibrant piece of abstract art, a calming landscape, or a family portrait, the artwork becomes the star of the room.
2. Minimalist Appeal
If you favour a minimalist or modern interior design, one large frame can offer a clean, uncluttered look. It provides maximum visual impact with minimal elements.
3. Fewer Decisions to Make
With one big frame, you have fewer decisions to make. Simply choose a single piece of artwork and a frame that complements your space. This can be a relief if you prefer a straightforward décor solution.
When to Choose One Big Frame:
- You have a large wall or open space that needs a bold anchor.
- You want to showcase a single, meaningful piece of art.
- Your living room follows a minimalist or contemporary design style.
- You’re seeking an easy yet impactful décor option.
Gallery Wall: Dynamic and Personal
A gallery wall allows you to mix and match art, photos, and frames, creating a personalised display. Here’s why a gallery wall might be the ideal choice for your living room:
1. Expresses Your Personality
A gallery wall is a perfect way to showcase your personal story. You can blend family photos, artwork, and sentimental pieces to create a narrative that’s uniquely yours.
2. Versatility
With a gallery wall, you have the freedom to combine different sizes, shapes, and styles of frames, adding depth and variety to your room. This eclectic approach brings warmth and character to your space.
3. Easily Customisable
Gallery walls are highly customisable. You can swap out pieces as your tastes change or as new family memories are made. This flexibility allows your wall to evolve over time.
When to Choose a Gallery Wall:
- You want to showcase multiple pieces of art, photos, and memorabilia.
- Your interior design style is eclectic or creative.
- You have a smaller wall that could benefit from added dimension.
- You enjoy the process of curating and rearranging art.
Factors to Consider Before Making a Decision
1. Size of the Wall
Larger walls can accommodate one big frame to anchor the room, while gallery walls often work better on medium or smaller walls, where they add depth and variety.
2. Your Room’s Style
For minimalist or modern living rooms, one large frame might provide the simplicity you desire. In eclectic or traditional spaces, a gallery wall offers a curated, cosy feel that’s rich in personality.
3. Frame Selection
At Frames Now, we offer a wide range of frames, from sleek, modern designs to more ornate, traditional styles. For gallery walls, you can mix and match frame finishes or keep a consistent theme. For one big frame, select a frame that enhances both the artwork and your living room’s décor.
4. Emotional Impact
One large frame makes a bold, immediate statement, whereas a gallery wall invites viewers to explore each piece in detail. Consider the atmosphere you want to create: do you want your living room to feel bold and impactful, or intimate and personal?
Whether you choose one big frame or a gallery wall, both options have the potential to elevate your living room. A single large frame provides a bold, clean aesthetic, while a gallery wall allows for creativity and personalisation. At Frames Now, we offer a wide variety of framing options to suit any style.
Visit us in-store or shop online to explore our collection and find the perfect solution for your home. Whether you're after simplicity or an eclectic display, we’ve got the right frame for you.
Happy framing!
Jodie Myers