Prints and framed artwork have long been the go-to wall decor idea, but there are countless creative alternatives to hanging artwork on your walls that aren't prints.
When it comes to decorating with art, we tend to think of paintings, prints, posters, and photographs as the main options. But there's so much more to the world than two-dimensional, mass-produced options. So what should you hang on your walls instead?
Whether you're an avid plate collector, music lover, or proud mom, your walls should be a space to display the things (and people) you love. We enlisted the help of the experts to round up seven unexpected ideas for how to take your gallery wall alternative from simple to stylish. Here's their best advice.
7 non-print wall decor ideas
(Image courtesy of Studio Keeta)
The great thing about decorating your home is that you have the freedom to decide what you want to look at every day: a display of family photos, a collection of vintage vinyl records, or something simple like a mirrored wall?
“Anything can be art! Don't limit yourself to flat, two-dimensional pieces,” says Kristina Khersonsky of Studio Keeta. “There's really no limit to what you can hang on your walls. Think of your walls as your own personal canvas. If there's something that catches your eye and stirs an emotion in you, consider it art. We've hung things like large antique wooden forks, hand-painted ceramic fish plates, colorful masks, crumpled canvases, and more. Even wall-mounted vases and planters can be considered art and will elevate a space!”
From displaying a curated selection of your kids' artwork to digging through vintage finds, below are seven creative ideas for wall decor that defy tradition and are truly unique.
1. Display a collection of reflective mirrors
(Image courtesy of Matt Clayton)
Decorating with mirrors gives you more than a place to see yourself, they also amplify the light around the space, making the room feel larger and more open.
“When you're looking to spice up your wall décor, start with a great wall mirror,” suggests interior designer Cathy Kuo. “Wall mirrors add light and depth to a space, and they can subtly incorporate the room's design style through the detailing of the mirror's frame. Plus, having a mirror on hand is often very practical.”
Consider placing a mirror strategically opposite a window to bounce natural light throughout the room, not only brightening the space but also making it feel more open. Experiment with different shapes, from classic rectangles to whimsical sunbursts and asymmetrical designs, and look for vintage pieces for timeless appeal.
Bethany Adams agrees: “A mirror is an obvious choice, but a Japanese folding screen is even more interesting; some nice woven art or tile work could also be really interesting,” she suggests.
2. Look for sculptures and 3D art
(Image courtesy of A. Naber Design)
Art should inspire conversation and reflect personality. Whether it's abstract metal sculptures, vibrant ceramic installations or custom-designed pieces, 3D art is a bold, bold alternative to typical wall décor.
“Art doesn't have to be limited to flat prints and paintings,” says designer Linda Hayslett. Using three-dimensional objects, sculptures, and masks arranged like a gallery wall hanging can add personality, and fiber art on the walls can make any space feel more interesting and curated.”
Designer Abbie Naber of A. Naber Design, who designed the space above, is also a fan of fiber art. “Three-dimensional artworks can be more cost-effective, especially if the wall is huge and intimidating,” she advises. “These pieces can add a sculptural element to the space and create a sense of layering in a room where 2D art might not work.”
From sleek and contemporary to richly textured and eclectic, choose pieces that complement and elevate your overall design. Consider a collection of small sculptures or a large, stately object as the centerpiece of the space. And don't forget to think about how the light will fall on these tactile pieces. Picture lights could be the perfect accent piece.
3. Try the plate wall trend
(Image credit: Alexandra Kaehler / Photography by Aimée Mazzenga)
Displaying your finest tableware doesn't have to be hidden. For a unique take on the gallery wall idea, try displaying a collection of unique or heirloom dishes on a wall in your kitchen or dining room. Not only will it be a focal point for your dining area, it can also add a lovely surprise to a cozy breakfast nook.
But let's be clear: this is not a place to hang your everyday white dishes, but an opportunity to add color, pattern and texture to your walls by collecting unique ceramics. Try choosing a variety of dishes in different shapes, sizes and origins. Don't be afraid to mix and match: new and old, round and oval, big and small.
If you're worried about how to hang your plates on the wall, you can use a simple wire plate hanger from Amazon or command strips to keep your plates safely hanging on the wall. Start by laying your plates out on the floor and experimenting with different arrangements. Play around with the arrangement until you find a balanced design.
4. Curate your kids' work
(Image courtesy of The Misfit House)
Beyond traditional artwork, your walls should be an expression of the people who live there, with sentimental photos, paintings and objects that tell your family's story — and nothing says that better than a scribbled sketch by a budding little artist.
“I like to mix in children's work in a gallery to create a balance between the serious and ornate and the playful and simple. But if a gallery isn't an option, I love little child self-portraits drawn in Sharpie on cardboard,” says Monica Stewart of The Misfit House, who designed the cozy reading nook above.
Finding creative and stylish ways to display your kids' artwork without compromising your interior design style can be a challenge. Your kids' artwork is a pure expression of their creativity, and incorporating it into your home's design will not only foster pride for them, but will also create a unique piece of wall art for you. Get creative with the frames and encourage your kids to use pens in the color palette of your choice… Good luck!
5. Let your hobbies take center stage
(Images courtesy of DATE Interiors / Photography and Styling: Louisa & Fyodor)
To create a truly personal atmosphere, decorate your home with all the things that bring you joy. It could be skateboards, musical instruments, movie posters, anything. Let your hobbies and passions be your design inspiration. They're an integral part of who you are, and your home should reflect that.
“Traditional framed artwork only covers a small part of what you can decorate your walls with,” says music room designer Molly Torres Portnoff of DATE Interiors, pictured above. “We love incorporating musical instruments, like guitars, into our designs. They add a sense of playfulness and are beautiful to make.”
Raili Clasen of Raili CA Design advises incorporating pieces that aren't typically considered art but add a lot of personality. “In our Surf Ranch project, we added skateboards, sun hats, 3D maps, and macramé to the photo wall, and in our home we have hand-painted axes to go with the surf art.”
Whether you're an avid collector or simply have a passion for vintage vinyl records or antique cameras, transforming your walls into a gallery of your prized possessions can tell the story of who you are.
6. Hunt for vintage art, objects and curiosities
(Image credit: Alexandra Kaehler / Photography by Aimée Mazzenga)
Incorporating vintage and historic pieces into your designs creates a sense of nostalgia that newer pieces can't replicate. Whether it's a weathered painting, an antique clock or a rare piece, each piece has a story to tell and can add a narrative to your home décor. It can also create a sentimental feel.
Alexandra Koehler, who designed the green living room above, filled this gallery wall with art her clients had collected over the years that reflected the places they'd lived and their interests. “When creating a gallery wall like this, I think it's important to create spaces with a variety of textures, shapes, and sizes,” she advises. “Variety creates interest, so it's important to give each space at least 2-3 inches of room, but make sure each space is close to each other so it feels relevant and purposeful.”
Visiting antique shops and flea markets can help you unearth hidden gems, an idea shared by Kristina Khersonsky, founder of Studio Keeta. “The trick is to seek out local artists or hit your local flea market to find unique finds,” she advises. “And if you're creating a gallery wall, the trick is to mix and match different mediums for the most visually appealing look.”
7. Think functionally in your kitchen
(Image courtesy: LH.Designs / Lauren Taylor)
If you love the look of a wooden breadboard or have a collection of antique bowls that you would regret not displaying, use them as decoration. From small hooks to hanging poles to open shelves, your kitchen wall decor ideas should also include storage solutions. The functional decor of your kitchen should be designed as carefully as any other part, so think carefully about what you put on display.
“Even ordinary household items can become great pieces of art,” says Linda Hayslett, who created this fun display in the modern kitchen pictured above. “Having a fun cutting board in your kitchen that you can put on display when not in use is a great way to create a unique, one-of-a-kind piece of art.”
You can elevate everyday kitchen essentials into works of art and turn practicality into a design statement. Hanging pots, pans and cookware not only maximizes the space you have, but also adds an industrial or rustic aesthetic, depending on the pots. Or,
The chalkboard wall allows you to write down recipes, shopping lists, daily reminders and more, bringing added practicality to your kitchen walls.
Bobina Bobble Mirror – Spruce
Ginori 1735 Oriente Flat Dinner Plate
Remember, your home is a reflection of you, so use these ideas as a springboard to inspire your creativity. Anything goes. Embrace the extraordinary, curate your space with intention, and let each piece on your wall tell a story. Have fun with a variety of wall decor ideas, including vintage treasures, a gallery of everyday objects, and cherished works of art made by small hands.