Interiors

Tips & Tricks: 4 Ways to Fill an Oversized Wall (That Don't Include a Gallery Wall)

by

5 years ago

If you have a large, blank wall in your home, you’ve probably heard that a gallery wall is an easy way to fill the space. But what if you want to think a little outside the box and try something new? If gallery walls aren’t really your style, stick with us, because we’re breaking down our top four ideas on how decorate an oversized wall using everything from woven baskets to creative shelving solutions. The most important thing to keep in mind is that less is often more. We love the idea of choosing just a few high-impact pieces to make a big statement. This will not only keep your space from looking cluttered (important in narrow areas like hallways and bathrooms) but will also ensure that the pieces you do choose get a chance to shine. Here are our best tips to make your oversized wall pop…

1. Use Diptychs and Triptychs

While we always love an oversized print for a wide stretch of wall, a diptych or triptych is a better way to break up the space. You’ll get the impact of having a large-scale print, but the separate framing will help visually divide the wall and make it feel a little less intimidating. To keep the space feeling calm, rather than chaotic, look for prints in soothing hues, like these blue and green beach prints. Find even more great prints for large wall spaces here.

2. Add Texture

If your plain wall seems a little… less than inspiring, try adding some three-dimensional texture. Whether you gravitate towards a papier mâché art piece or a flock of brass birds, give your statement piece a chance to shine by choosing just one. A textured piece can be a fun way to inject a sense of playfulness into the room, especially if space is limited, so pair your art and your wall wisely. For instance, this elegant clock may work best in a living room, while the vivid hues of this art print are a great way to add a splash of color to a neutral bedroom.

  1. Framed Blue Otomi Print | 2. Hapao Black and White Basket | 3.Gold Kyota Clock | 4. Papier-Mache Sculptural Wall Art | 5. Brass Seagulls

3. Stack It Up With Eye-Catching Shelving

Interested in the idea of adding texture, but want to take it a step further? Consider adding one of these unique shelves to your wall. For a single floating shelf, keep things simple with a framed photo, dried flowers, or a small collection of meaningful treasures. For larger set-ups, arrange books and keepsakes by color, keep things minimalistic, or add fresh greenery for a pop of color. However you decide to style them, look for shelves with interesting architectural touches, like gold hardware or vintage wall mounts. This will add a unique touch to your blank wall and keep them looking artistic, rather than purely functional.

  1. 1950s French Factory Shelving | 2. Honeycomb Shelves | 3. Antiqued Brass Floating Shelves | 4.Marble Wall-Mounted Shelf | 5. Smith Wall Shelves

4. Go Big (Or Go Home)

While these pieces tend to be more of an investment, you’re taking up the whole wall with just one print, which saves a ton of time and money. It also means that you should really love the piece before you take the plunge. A good way to test it out? Try taping out the dimensions on your wall with painters tape, and get the feel for it for a day or two. If the size and orientation of the piece feels right, you know it’s time to add in the real thing.

  1. Color Balloons I | 2. Whitehaven Beach | 3. Byron Bay Sunabathers | 4. The Couple, Thailand | 5. Fog and Waves, San Francisco

How would you style an oversized wall?

Be sure to find more great prints for large spaces here and head to the site for moretips and tricks.

Xx Team GM

Photos: Gray Malin, Karla Souza