Strategies for Enhancing a Spacious Bare Wall: Five Expert Recommendations
Whether you've just moved into a new place, signed a new lease, or just fancy a change, one of the best ways to give your space a personal touch and create a cozy atmosphere is what you choose to hang on your walls, especially when dealing with a large, blank wall that dominates a room.
So, should you go for vintage art from a flea market, or perhaps display your family's treasured heirlooms? Or maybe you're a fan of wallpaper, accent walls, or gallery walls? Whichever option you prefer, there are countless ways to fill a big wall in your home. To help you decide, interior designer Johnice Katz from New Orleans shares five things to keep in mind when tackling a large blank space.
Consider Your Budget
According to Katz, when facing a large blank wall, the first thing to discuss with a client is the budget. The cost of professionally framed artwork can add up pretty quickly, and investing in a large piece might put a strain on your financial plan. In such cases, Katz suggests using smaller, sentimental pieces to mimic the size of a larger piece. It's perfectly fine to keep it simple and understated as long as you stay within your budgetary limits.
Break it Up with Existing Furniture
One common mistake, Katz points out, is the assumption that the entire wall needs to be treated as a single, continuous space for decoration. Instead of treating a large blank wall as a single design element, combine it with furniture you already have to create a coherent aesthetic. For example, you could create a media area on one side and a desk vignette on another, or use rugs to delineate different spaces and create a more intimate atmosphere.
Build a Gallery Wall
Gallery walls have been popular for a while now, and for good reason. They offer an excellent opportunity to showcase the unique personality of the inhabitant. Whether it's a blend of eclectic art, traditional pieces, or family memories, a gallery wall is a great way to inject some style into your home and liven up a blank space.
To style a big wall, Katz recommends starting in the middle and working your way out. If you're working on a staircase or hallway, start from one end and work your way to the other. Don't limit yourself to just art; mix in sculptural pieces, sconces, wall hangings, or any other decorative item that isn't the typical framed piece.
Avoid the Easy Buy
When it comes to designing a visually striking feature, it's essential to be thoughtful about what you choose to display. While it's tempting to use whatever's available to check off a project, your home will benefit from a little patience. As Katz says, " collecting takes time," and watching your space evolve is part of the fun. One thing she strongly advises against is digitally printed art on stretched canvas – so steer clear of impulse buys and opt for something that might require waiting or saving, but will bring you joy in the end.
Go for Bold
A large wall is your opportunity to make a statement. Don't be afraid to go all out – use a cluster of small frames, a large, bold piece (properly lit with an art light, of course), or a vignette of smaller pieces. As Katz puts it, "let go of the fear of being 'too much' – it's nearly impossible."
Incorporating home decor ideas from sources like SouthernLiving, you might consider creating a bold gallery wall on your large, blank wall to showcase your unique personality. To ensure your decor is within your budget, think about utilizing smaller, sentimental pieces to mimic the size of a larger piece.
