A gallery wall is a great way to display artwork, photographs and treasured pieces together. Before you begin, it helps to decide whether you prefer a symmetrical or eclectic layout.
Both styles can look impressive, but they create very different effects.
What Is a Symmetrical Gallery Wall?
A symmetrical gallery wall uses frames arranged in a neat, balanced pattern. The frames are often the same size, evenly spaced and aligned in a grid.
This style works well in modern homes, offices, hallways and dining rooms where you want a clean and coordinated look.
It is particularly suited to:
- Family photographs
- Matching prints
- Botanical artwork
- Certificates
- A series by the same artist
The main challenge is accuracy, as uneven spacing or slightly tilted frames can be noticeable.
What Is an Eclectic Gallery Wall?
An eclectic gallery wall combines different frame sizes, colours, shapes and styles.
It may include paintings, photographs, prints, mirrors or decorative objects arranged around one larger feature piece.
This style creates a more relaxed and personal display. It is ideal for collections that have grown over time or include sentimental pieces.
Although the arrangement is informal, consistent spacing and visual balance will help prevent it from looking cluttered.
An art hanging system such as Gallery Systems makes it easier to adjust the height and position of each frame whether you are on ‘team symmetrical’ or ‘team eclectic’ without making holes in the wall.
Which Style Is Right for You?
Choose a symmetrical gallery wall if you prefer:
- Clean lines
- Matching frames
- Even spacing
- A formal or modern appearance
Choose an eclectic gallery wall if you prefer:
- Mixed frame styles and sizes
- A relaxed, creative look
- Personal collections
- The freedom to add new pieces over time
You can also combine the two styles by using different frame sizes while keeping the spacing consistent.
Planning Your Gallery Wall
Before hanging anything, arrange your frames on the floor or use paper templates on the wall.
For a symmetrical layout, carefully measure the spacing between each frame.
For an eclectic layout, begin with the largest or most important piece and arrange smaller frames around it. Spread darker and larger frames evenly so the display feels balanced.
Use the Right Number of Hangers
Smaller pictures can often be supported by one hanger, while larger or wider frames may sit more securely with two.
Using two hangers can help:
- Keep the frame level
- Improve weight distribution
- Reduce movement
- Prevent twisting
Two hangers are especially useful in symmetrical displays, where a tilted frame can stand out. HINT: If you are using two hangers and hooks on your artwork, make sure you hang the art using D rings on the back corners of your frame not the frame wire that goes across the back of the frame. Two hangers on the framer wire will end up migrating towards the centre of the picture and look uneven and messy.
Keep the Display Neat
Clearline hangers offer a discreet appearance, while stainless cable hangers complement modern interiors and heavier artwork.
If a frame leans forward, HangRight Clips can be fitted to the back of a wooden frame to hold the hanging line closer to the artwork. This helps the frame sit flatter against the wall.
Create a Gallery Wall That Can Change
A symmetrical gallery wall creates a clean, organised look, while an eclectic display offers more personality and flexibility.
Whichever style you choose, a Gallery System picture hanging system allows you to move, level and rearrange your artwork without repeatedly drilling new holes in the wall. Throw away the wall repair kit as Gallery Systems products solve the problem of continually repairing walls.
Explore Gallery Systems picture hanging systems, adjustable hooks, hangers and HangRight Clips to create a gallery wall that suits your home and collection.
