A guide to creating the gallery wall of your dreams.

Creating a gallery wall doesn't mean hanging lots of pictures or frames together.
In 2026, such a wall only works if it doesn't look like it was designed all at once.

The most common problem with gallery walls isn't their layout, but their intention: too many are designed to "fill" a wall, not to tell a story or give balance to the space.

This guide explains how to create a gallery wall that will stand the test of time.

Before we begin: why do you want a gallery wall?

Before even choosing frames or pictures, ask yourself a simple question: should this wall tell a story or provide balance?

• Storytelling → different images, rhythm, memory
• Balance → few elements, measured, breath

If this point is not clear, any arrangement risks appearing haphazard.

Step 1. Choose an “anchor” point (and build around it)

Every successful gallery wall has a single element that holds it together. It's not necessarily the largest, but it's the one that provides visual stability.

It could be a strong image, a larger frame than the others, or an element that feels "solid" and around which you want to develop the wall decoration.

Starting from here avoids one of the most common mistakes: growing the composition without a direction.

Step 2. Choose the right layout (without getting too rigid)

There's no one-size-fits-all arrangement, but some work better in certain contexts. These are the options we offer in our consultations:

1. Neat layout

• works in very architectural spaces
• requires similar frames
  

2. Organic layout

• more natural
• more suitable for different images
• It requires a keen eye and patience. There's a short step between dynamism and confusion. :)

In 2026, organic layout is almost always more believable, as long as it doesn't become clutter.

Step 3. Define distances and heights that work

Concreteness is needed here.

• The ideal reading height is around the eyes
• The frames must not touch each other
• Too much distance breaks the rhythm, too little makes it slow.

Extra tip: If a gallery wall seems “noisy,” the problem is almost always the distance, not the image selection.

Step 4. Test before you puncture (simple method)

Here we are at one of the most underrated passages.

Before hanging:

• put everything on the ground
• or use paper templates on the wall

This moment is used to remove or to re-balance.
The best gallery walls almost always come about after moving at least one element.

Step 5. Use the right tools (safety before aesthetics)

Not all frames hang the same way. The weight and type of wall make a difference.

• Lightweight frames (up to 1–2 kg) : a steel nail may be sufficient.
• Medium-heavy frames or mirrors : It's best to use a screw and anchor. The 5 mm anchor is among the most versatile and widely used for solid masonry walls.
• Very heavy frames : consider two anchor points to distribute the weight and avoid tilting over time.

Don't neglect the type of wall:

• Plasterboard: you will need specific plasterboard anchors.
• Solid bricks or concrete: wall drill bit + traditional plug.
• Tiles: Use a ceramic drill bit and proceed without hammering to avoid cracks.

A small mistake at this stage can compromise stability and security. A beautiful gallery wall is a secure gallery wall.

Step 6. Now create (and take your space)

The wall is your blank canvas. But it's not just decoration: it's a story.

An effective gallery wall isn't perfect: it's coherent: it can talk about travel, family, art, design, passions.

When you hang the last painting, take a moment to look at the whole. If it represents you, you've hit the nail on the head.

What to include (and what not to)

A gallery wall doesn't have to contain just images.

Prints, illustrations, posters, and mirrors also work well.

What doesn't work? If an element doesn't add meaning, remove it. The wall will thank you.

If you want a shortcut

Not all gallery walls have to be built from scratch.
If you prefer to start with a well-thought-out balance, here you'll find curated compositions that serve as a foundation, ready to be adapted to suit your space and time.

Frequently Asked Questions about Wall Galleries

Frames: the same or different?

Generally speaking, this principle applies:

• Equal frames → silence, order
• Different frames → rhythm, character

In most homes, a controlled variation works best.
There's no need for strong contrast: just make sure the frames don't look like they were bought together.

How many frames do you need for a gallery wall?
It depends on the wall, not the number. A few good choices are better than many unrelated ones.

Is it better to start from the center or from one side?
From the anchor point (see above). The rest comes later.

Does a gallery wall work in small homes?
Yes, if it's measured. In small spaces, lightness is essential.