If you've ever struggled with decorating a long, empty wall, you're not alone. These expanses can be tough to tackle, but with a little creativity and some inspiration, you can turn that blank canvas into a stunning focal point. Whether you love minimalist style or prefer maximalist vibes, these five ideas will give you the inspiration you need to decorate those long walls like a pro.
1. Incorporate a Gallery Wall
Gallery walls are a fantastic way to add personality and depth to a long wall. They allow you to showcase your favorite memories, artwork, and photographs in a creative and visually appealing way. If you're looking to add some interest to a boring wall, a gallery wall might be just the thing you need!
Choose a Theme for Your Gallery Wall
One of the first things to consider when creating a gallery wall is the theme. This will help guide your selection of frames and artwork, resulting in a cohesive look. If you're not sure where to start, consider a theme that resonates with you. For example, you could choose to display black and white photos, vintage landscapes, or steel prints that will bring life to your gallery wall. The key is to choose a theme that reflects your personality and style.
Once you've chosen your theme, it's time to start selecting your artwork. Don't be afraid to mix and match different types of artwork, such as photographs, prints, and paintings. This will add interest and variety to your display.
Mix and Match Frames and Artwork
When it comes to framing your artwork, don't be afraid to mix and match frames of different sizes and colors. This can add depth and interest to your gallery wall and help create a visually appealing display. Consider using frames with different textures, such as wood or metal, to add even more interest.
Another tip is to choose frames that complement the colors in your artwork. For example, if you have a painting with a lot of blue tones, consider framing it with a blue or silver frame. This will help tie everything together and create a cohesive look.
Arrange the Layout Before Hanging
Before you start hanging frames on the wall, it's important to take some time to arrange your layout on the floor. This will help you get the spacing and balance just right, and ensure that you're happy with the overall look and feel of the display.
One way to do this is to use an arrangement tool, such as the ones available online. These tools allow you to upload photos of your artwork and experiment with different layouts until you find the perfect one. Another option is to cut out paper shapes that represent your artwork and use these to experiment with different arrangements.
Once you've settled on a layout, it's time to start hanging your frames. Remember to use a level to ensure that everything is straight, and to leave enough space between frames to create a visually appealing display.
With these tips in mind, you'll be able to create a stunning gallery wall that showcases your personality and style. Whether you choose to display family photos, artwork, or a combination of both, a gallery wall is a great way to add interest and depth to any room.
2. Install a Large-Scale Art Piece
A large-scale art piece can make a dramatic statement on a long wall, drawing the eye and adding visual interest to the space. It can be a conversation starter, a reflection of your personality or a way to add a pop of color to a neutral space. When selecting your artwork, there are a few things to consider to ensure that you choose the perfect piece for your home.
Selecting the Right Artwork for Your Space
When choosing a large-scale art piece, consider the shape and proportion of the wall. For example, a vertical piece may work best on a tall, narrow wall, while a horizontal piece could be perfect for a long, low wall. Think about the colors in the room, and choose an artwork that complements or contrasts with the existing palette. If you have a neutral color scheme, consider a bold and colorful piece to add interest to the space. Conversely, if you have a bold color scheme, a black and white piece may be the perfect addition to the room. Consider the mood you want to create, whether it's bold and dramatic, or serene and calming. A colorful abstract piece can create a lively and energetic atmosphere, while a peaceful landscape can create a calming and relaxing environment.
Tips for Hanging Large Art Pieces
When hanging a large-scale art piece, it's important to get the height right. Ideally, the center of the artwork should be at eye level, around 57 inches from the floor. This ensures that the piece is in the right position for you to enjoy and that it is balanced with other elements in the room. If you're not sure, it's always best to use a level and measure twice! If you have a large space, you can also consider hanging multiple pieces in a gallery wall style. This can create a visually stunning display that adds depth and interest to the room.
Creating a Focal Point with Art
A large-scale art piece can be the perfect focal point for a room. It draws the eye and creates a sense of drama and intrigue. Consider using lighting to highlight your artwork and build other design elements around it to create a cohesive look. For example, choose accent pillows or curtains that pick up on colors in the artwork, or choose furniture with clean lines that won't detract from the piece. If you have a large piece of artwork that you love but don't have the perfect wall for it, consider creating a feature wall by painting the wall a bold color or adding wallpaper to create a stunning backdrop for your artwork.
3. Use Shelves for Display and Function
Shelves are a functional and stylish way to decorate a long wall. Not only do they provide storage space, but they can also add dimension and depth to the wall. With various styles, including floating shelves, bookcases, and built-ins, you can find the perfect fit for your space.
Floating shelves can be a great choice if you're short on floor space. They provide a minimalist look that works well in modern spaces. On the other hand, built-in shelves can be customized to suit your needs and add a touch of elegance to the room. Bookcases are a classic choice that can work in any room, and are great for displaying favorite books, photos, and decorative items.
Types of Shelves for Long Walls
When choosing shelves for a long wall, consider the style and functionality you need. Floating shelves provide a minimalist look that works well in modern spaces, while built-in shelves can be customized to suit your needs. Bookcases are a classic choice that can work in any room, and are great for displaying favorite books, photos, and decorative items.
Styling Your Shelves with Decorative Items
Consider the items you'll be displaying to ensure that your shelves look stylish and pulled-together. Use a mix of decorative objects and everyday items, such as books and vases. Choose items that vary in height and texture, and group them in odd numbers for a more organic look. For a clean and minimalist feel, stick to a color scheme that complements the room's existing palette.
For example, if your room has a neutral color scheme, add pops of color to your shelves with bright books or decorative objects. Alternatively, if your room is already colorful, stick to neutral items to avoid overwhelming the space.
Incorporating Storage Solutions
Shelves aren't just for display – they can also provide valuable storage space. Consider incorporating baskets or bins to hold toys, magazines, or other items that you want to keep organized. Use decorative boxes to hide clutter, or choose a combination of open and closed storage for a balanced look.
For a cohesive look, choose storage solutions that match the style of your shelves. For example, choose woven baskets or wooden crates for storage if you have rustic wooden shelves. Opt for metallic or glass storage containers if your shelves are sleek and modern.
You can turn a long wall into a functional and stylish display with the right shelves and styling. Whether you're showcasing your favorite knick-knacks or adding storage space to a small room, shelves are a versatile and practical solution.
4. Create a Unique Wall Mural
A wall mural can be an eye-catching and personalized way to decorate a long wall. Whether you hire a professional muralist or try a DIY technique, a mural can add texture, color, and visual interest to your space. When choosing a design, consider your personal style and the mood you want to create.
Designing Your Own Wall Mural
If you're feeling creative, designing your own wall mural can be a fun and rewarding experience. Choose a design that appeals to you, whether it's a geometric pattern, floral motif, or abstract art. Sketch out your design on paper, and use a grid system to transfer it to the wall. Then, use paint or markers to bring your vision to life!
Hiring a Professional Muralist
Hiring a muralist can be a great choice if you want a more polished and professional mural. Look for an artist whose style aligns with yours, and ask to see samples of their work. Be sure to discuss color, scale, and design before they start work, and ask for a timeline and estimate upfront.
DIY Wall Mural Techniques
If you want to create a wall mural on a budget, plenty of DIY techniques exist. Stenciling, for example, can create a bold and graphic look, while vinyl decals can add personalized details without the mess of paint. You could also add texture with wallpaper or fabric, or create a gallery wall with your own photos and artwork.
5. Hang a Tapestry or Textile Art Piece
A tapestry or textile art piece can add warmth, texture, and visual interest to a long wall. Consider choosing a piece that complements the existing colors and style in the room, or use it as a starting point to build a new color palette around. Textile art can be a great choice if you're looking for a bohemian or eclectic vibe.
Selecting the Right Textile Art Piece
When selecting a textile art piece, consider both the scale of the wall and the piece itself. A large, bold print can work well on a long wall, while a smaller piece might look lost. Look for colors that complement or contrast with existing pieces in the room, and consider the mood you want to create. Soft and muted colors can create a calming, relaxing atmosphere, while bright and bold hues can be energizing and dynamic.
Creating Depth and Texture with Textile Art
Textile art can add both depth and texture to a long wall. Consider layering it with other pieces, such as mirrors or framed artwork, to create a dynamic and interesting display. You could also use it as a backdrop to a seating area, or hang it above a bed for a cozy and inviting look.
These five ideas should inspire you to decorate a long wall with style and creativity. Whether you opt for a gallery wall, a large-scale art piece, or a personalized mural/sign like the Tree of Life Sign by American Steel Designs, a well-decorated long wall can add character and personality to any room.
