Gallery walls were once the crown jewel of interior design. They felt fresh, eclectic and a true expression of individuality. But let’s be honestâseeing the same symmetrical grids across Instagram feeds, Pinterest boards and showroom images has left them feeling a little… predictable. Whereâs the spontaneity? Whereâs the wow factor?
Enter the new gallery wall. This approach embraces creativity, swaps rigid uniformity for chaotic charm and intersperses art with personal treasures. If youâre ready to ditch the cookie-cutter layouts and breathe energy into your walls, this oneâs for you.
Whatâs New in Gallery Walls?
The most stylish gallery walls of today are all about mixing things up. Think of them as curated chaosâa harmonious blend of different media, frame styles and unexpected objects.
Imagine a vintage painting paired with an exotic mask, a framed photograph beside a wall sconce, or your favourite print interspersed with a quirky vintage hat. Itâs a bold, playful look that feels aliveâyour walls become more than a backdropâtheyâre a conversation starter.
What Makes the New Gallery Wall Stand Out?
A Mix of Frames
Forget matching frames; the beauty lies in juxtaposing ornate shapes with minimalist styles, aged wood with gold gilt or pops of colour against neutral tones. The key is contrast.
More Than Just Art
Why stop at pictures? The new gallery wall welcomes all kinds of treasuresâsculptural sconces, heirloom candleholders, or even woven baskets. Have a beloved souvenir youâve yet to display? Include it!
Breaking Free from Grids
Precision be gone! This trend abandons symmetry and rigid layouts in favour of organically flowing compositions. Start with a focal piece and build outward, letting the shapes and sizes guide you.
How to Style Your Own Gallery Wall
1. Create a Visual Story
Your gallery wall should be a storyâone that reflects your personality, travels and creative inclinations. Maybe itâs a collection of travel prints mixed with artisan masks from your trips or vintage family photographs paired with flea-market treasures.
Pro Tip: Begin with a theme, but donât be afraid to veer offâsometimes, the unexpected contrasts are what bring everything together.
2. Play with Layers and Depth
Move beyond the two-dimensional. Combine flat artwork with objects that protrude, like sconces or hats, to add texture and depth. A wall-mounted candleholder or striking antler piece can turn any flat surface into a dynamic work of art.
ProTip: Ensure these 3D pieces are securely mounted, especially if theyâre heavier items like ceramics or lighting fixtures.
3. Choose a Balanced Colour Palette
Though your wall thrives on spontaneity, a cohesive palette brings it all together. Work with tones and hues that complement one anotherâwhether itâs earthy browns, vibrant jewel tones or soft pastels to match your overall decor.
ProTip: Use the colours in your art or objects as inspiration to choose complementary backdrops or finishes for your wall.
4. Mix Sizes and Shapes
Combine large statement pieces with smaller gems to keep the energy flowing. Play around with orientationâlandscapes beside portraits, circles next to squares. Itâs all about movement and rhythm.
Pro Tip: Lay out your composition on the floor beforehand. Experimenting here can help you avoid unnecessary nail holes later on.
5. Add Lighting
Nothing elevates a space like good lighting. Wall sconces or subtly placed picture lights can highlight key pieces while creating a welcoming glow in your room.
ProTip: Adjustable lighting allows you to shift focus easily, updating the look without completely reworking the wall.
Why the New Gallery Wall Works
At its core, this trend champions individuality and creativity. Itâs the antidote to the overly curated, picture-perfect aesthetic that can make homes feel more like showrooms than places for living. By combining the old with the new, the polished with the imperfect, youâre creating a design thatâs as unique as you are.
A Reflection of You
Your home tells your story, and the new gallery wall is the perfect way to share it. Whether that story is bold, whimsical, classic or quirky, thereâs no wrong way to express yourself.
Get Started Today
Motivated to revamp your walls? Start exploring your home for hidden treasuresâa vintage mirror tucked away, that one-of-a-kind market find or the frames youâve been meaning to dust off. Plan your layout, experiment with textures and watch your blank wall come to life.
If you need more inspiration or advice, drop your thoughts in the comments below. Share your creations and tag us on Instagramâwe canât wait to see the stunning gallery walls you bring to life!
Have you heard the term âgrounding coloursâ thrown about in design conversations? If it sounds like fancy designer jargon, donât worryâitâs more straightforward than you think. Grounding colours are simply shades that make a room feel calm, balanced and firmly rooted. Theyâre the unsung heroes of interior design, weaving harmony and warmth into your living spaces.
If youâve been craving a home that feels like a sanctuary rather than a showroom, grounding colours might just be the secret ingredient youâre looking for. Grab your swatches and let’s explore the power of grounding hues.
What Are Grounding Colours?
Grounding colours, in essence, are tones that provide stability and peace to a room. Think of deep browns, earthy greens, slate blues and moody greysâcolours that carry a sense of visual weight and depth. Unlike brighter pastels or creams, these hues are rooted in nature and they have the ability to anchor a space, emotionally and visually.
Picture entering a room painted in earthy green. You immediately feel comforted, almost as if the walls are giving you a gentle hug. Or imagine sitting in a grey-blue living room while itâs raining outsideâserene, right? Thatâs the magic of grounding colours.
Why Grounding Colours Are on the Rise
Weâre seeing grounding colours crop up more and more in interior design, and itâs no coincidence. After years of all-over neutrals like stark whites, beiges and greiges dominating our homes, many spaces have started to feel a bit… washed out. Donât get us wrongâneutrals have their place, but overusing them can make a room feel lifeless.
Grounding colours are a shift towards something richer and more dynamic. Theyâre a response to our yearning for spaces that feel lived-in, cosy, and reflective of the natural world. Itâs a trend that doesnât just look beautifulâit feels good too.
How to Use Grounding Colours in Your Home
Feeling inspired yet? Incorporating grounding colours is easier than you might think, whether youâre revamping your entire space or making smaller styling tweaks. Here are some ideas to get you started:
1. Anchor the Room with a Feature Wall
Thinking about a bold change? A feature wall in a grounding shade like forest green or charcoal can command just the right amount of attention. Whether itâs your living room or bedroom, this focal point provides depth and cosiness without overwhelming the space.
2. Update Your Furniture
If youâre not ready for paint, why not bring in grounding hues through your furniture? A deep-brown leather sofa, navy velvet armchair or walnut coffee table introduces richness and pairs beautifully with existing neutrals.
3. Layer Through Textiles
One of the quickest ways to bring in grounding colours is through textiles like cushions, throws, curtains and rugs. A grey-blue wool throw over a cream couch or terracotta cushions added to your bed creates a sense of comfort and visual interest instantly.
4. Accessorise with Greenery
When in doubt, go greenâliterally! Houseplants are the perfect way to introduce grounding tones while connecting your home to nature. Think mossy greens and olive hues through plants like ferns, rubber plants, or trailing ivy.
5. Create a Balanced Palette
Grounding colours are about harmony, so balance is key. Pair darker grounding hues with lighter neutrals to keep your space from feeling heavy. For instance, pair a slate blue wall with white trim and taupe furnishings for a refined, layered look.
Can Grounding Colours Work with DIY Projects?
Absolutely! If youâre taking on DIY home decor projects, grounding colours bring sophistication to even the simplest updates. Try painting a vintage dresser in a muted green or transforming basic wooden shelves into stylish statement pieces with a deep walnut stain.
Better yet, grounding colours work incredibly well with upcycled projects too! An old mirror frame could be painted navy or mismatched picture frames could be unified with an earthy brown for a curated gallery wall effect.
Not a DIY expert? No problem. The beauty of grounding colours is that even small changes (like swapping a few accessories) can make a world of difference.
The Emotional Power of Grounding Tones
Itâs not just about aestheticsâcolour psychology shows that grounding shades bring composure and clarity to spaces, which can impact your overall mood. Rooms with grounding colours often feel more intimate and secure, making them ideal for spaces where you want to relax, like bedrooms and lounges.
But theyâre not limited to âcalmingâ areas either. Paired with the right accents, grounding colours can also add elegance to dining rooms or create a professional feel in home offices. Their versatility knows no bounds.
Tips for Choosing the Perfect Grounding Colours
If youâre not sure where to start, hereâs a quick cheat sheet:
For Warmth: Opt for terracotta, deep mustard or olive green.
For Cool Vibes: Choose slate blue, charcoal or mossy green.
For a Timeless Look: Stick to greys, taupes and chocolate browns.
And remember, lighting matters! Test swatches on your wall and observe how the colours change throughout the day. What may look lively in the morning light could feel somber in the evening, so get a sense of how your chosen hues behave.
Final Thoughts
When done right, grounding colours have the power to elevate your home from ordinary to extraordinary. Theyâre calming yet bold, elegant yet approachable, making them a perfect choice for any interior design style. Whether youâre painting an entire room, adding a statement piece, or experimenting with accessories, these versatile shades will transform your space into the retreat youâve always dreamed of.
Now itâs your turn to channel those creative vibes. Which grounding colour will you use to transform your home? Time to grab your paintbrush (or your Pinterest board) and get inspired!
Are you ready to infuse your home with the warmth and charm of nature? Baked earth colours are the latest interior design trend sweeping through eco-conscious homesâand for good reason. These rich, grounding tones draw inspiration from the natural world, bringing a timeless elegance and sustainability to any living space.
Whether you’re an interior design enthusiast or a sustainable living advocate, this guide will inspire you to weave these soul-soothing hues into your home.
What Are Baked Earth Colours?
Imagine warm ochres, deep terracottas, dusty rose pinks and earthy clays. These tones are the embodiment of natureâevoking sun-baked landscapes, clay-rich soil and rustic tranquillity.
Baked earth colours are muted enough to feel sophisticated yet vibrant enough to add character. They seamlessly blend with natural materials like wood, stone, linen and jute, creating a harmonious balance between colour and texture.
Why Choose Baked Earth Colours for Your Home?
A Connection to Nature
Want to feel like you’re breathing in the calm of a sunset or wandering through a terracotta villa in Tuscany? Baked earth hues bring the outdoors in, creating a serene, grounded atmosphere that reconnects us to nature.
Sustainability Meets Style
Earthy palettes naturally align with sustainable living. These tones pair beautifully with eco-friendly elementsâthink recycled wood furniture or organic textilesâmaking it easier to create a home steeped in style and sustainability.
Timeless Design
Trendy interiors are fleeting, but baked earth colours are deeply timeless. Their versatility makes them suitable for everything from traditional homes to contemporary, minimalistic spaces.
Warm and Inviting
Homes are meant to be lived in, and these colours radiate warmth and comfort. Whether you’re hosting guests or winding down after a busy day, a space decorated in these hues will make you feel right at home.
How to Introduce Baked Earth Colours to Your Home
1. Start with the Walls
Give your walls a fresh coat of paint in a muted terracotta, sun-dried ochre, or soft clay tone. These create a dramatic yet comforting backdrop that instantly sets the mood.
Tip: Pair your baked earth walls with natural white or cream trims for a balanced contrast that maintains an airy feel.
2. Mix with Natural Materials
Furnish your space with materials that complement an earthy palette. A rattan chair, a weathered oak coffee table or linen curtains will help you build a cohesive, eco-friendly look.
3. Play with Textures
Texture is the key to stopping earthy tones from feeling flat. Add organic jute rugs, handwoven cotton throws or ceramic pots for depth and interest.
Imagine the joy of sitting on a plush terracotta sofa, your feet resting on a clay-coloured rug, surrounded by soft linen cushions.
4. Statement Artwork and Accents
Brighten your walls with statement artwork that incorporates baked earth tones, or use ceramics and vases in similar hues to tie the room together.
Tip: Vintage or handmade accessories have charm and authenticity, reinforcing the grounded, natural feel of your space.
5. Layer with Plants
What better way to celebrate nature than with lush greenery? Add an air-cleansing monstera or trailing pothos to complement the sandy pinks and golden ochres of your room.
6. Create an Accent Nook
Not ready to transform an entire room? Dedicate one cornerâperhaps your reading nook or workspaceâand decorate it in all-natural tones. A deep walnut desk or a rust-hued cushion can create a harmonious vibe in a small space.
The Future Is Natural
Baked earth colours arenât just a trendâtheyâre an investment in a tranquil and enduring aesthetic that celebrates the beauty of the natural world. They allow you to reconnect with nature and create a sustainable sanctuary that reflects your values and personal style.
Are you ready to transform your home into the ultimate earthy retreat? Start small or renovate bigâthe possibilities are endless when working with colours as inspiring as nature itself.
Connect with Us to Learn More
If youâre ready to breathe new life into your home but need guidance in bringing these tones to life, our expert design consultants are here to help. Get in touch today and start reimagining your space.
Design your home with intention. Live with inspiration.
When you think of home design, the hallway might not be the first space that comes to mind. But this often overlooked area has emerged as the ultimate design playground and for good reason! Hallways are the perfect opportunity to experiment with daring colours, bold patterns and unique features that might feel a bit too overwhelming in other rooms. Theyâre transient spacesâa place to pass throughâwhich makes them an ideal canvas for creativity.
Why the Hallway Matters
Gone are the days when hallways were dull, functional spaces simply serving as connectors between rooms. Today, theyâre becoming one of the most exciting areas to decorate. Why? Because hallways set the tone for your entire home. Theyâre the first impressionâa prelude of whatâs to come. And since theyâre not traditionally spaces where people linger, you can afford to take bolder risks.
The hallway is your opportunity to go all out. Think of it as a small-scale experiment that lets you make a big statement without committing to the larger living spaces.
Bring Life to Your Hallway with Design Ideas
đ¨ Vivid Colours, Big Impact
Hallways are where you can really indulge in vibrant, striking colours. That daring shade of deep mustard, moody teal or dramatic black youâve been eyeing? This is the place to try it out. Use bold hues on walls or even on doors, skirting boards and ceilings to create a cohesive, immersive effect.
ProTip
Pair bold walls with bright, white trim or metallic accents for contrast that pops or lean into the drama and go monochromatic for a moody vibe.
đźď¸ Gallery Walls That Wow
Take advantage of the hallwayâs linear layout by turning it into a walking art exhibition. A gallery wall featuring your favourite prints, photos and artwork can instantly elevate the space. Mix and match different frame styles and sizes or keep it sleek with a cohesive theme.
ProTip
Add picture lights above your gallery wall for a sophisticated touch. It will not only highlight your artwork but will also create a warm, inviting glow.
𧜠Patterned Runners
A patterned rug or runner is the perfect way to breathe life into your hallway. Opt for vibrant geometric patterns, florals or a timeless Persian design to add texture and depth underfoot. These runners anchor the space while also hiding any high-traffic wear and tear.
ProTip
Measure carefully so the runner leaves a little border of flooring visible on each side. It creates a perfectly balanced look.
đĄ Epic Feature Lights
Who says chandeliers belong in the dining room? A statement pendant or dramatic chandelier transforms your hallway into a showstopping feature. Lighting is more than functional; itâs a design element and investing in a bold fixture will draw eyes upward and elevate the entire space.
ProTip
Layer your lights. Combine a striking centrepiece with recessed lighting along the edges or even wall sconces for a multidimensional look.
đď¸ Textures and Accessories
Donât forget about the tactile side of design. A well-placed console table, a quirky bench or even a vintage coat rack can make your hallway feel functional yet stylish. Pair these with curated accessories like oversized vases, abstract sculptures or an inviting mirror that doubles as a space-expander.
đď¸ Elaborately Tiled Floors
Who doesnât love a beautifully tiled floor? Hallways offer the chance to go boldâthink encaustic tiles featuring intricate patterns or glossy herringbone layouts in striking colours. Not only do they add a visual feature, but tiled floors are also practical and easy to clean.
ProTip
Choose slightly darker grout for tiled floors to disguise dirt in high traffic areas.
Turn Your Hallway into a Statement Space Today
At its core, a statement hallway is all about taking risks, having fun and letting your personal style shine. Whether you’re drawn to vivid colours, daring patterns or eclectic accessories, this is your chance to showcase bold design choices.
Donât be afraid to step outside your comfort zoneâafter all, itâs just a hallway! Start small with one or two impactful changes, like a patterned runner or a fresh lick of paint. Or, if you’re feeling ambitious, go all out with statement lighting and textured walls.
Need a bit of help to bring your vision to life? Share your hallway makeover ideas in the comments or connect with us for more tips and tricks. A stunning hallway isnât just a design highlightâitâs the gateway to a home that reflects who you are.
Make your hallway YOUR hallway.
The Statement Hallway
Move over living roomsâthe hallway has officially stolen the spotlight as the interior design playground of choice!
Think about it. Hallways are transitional spaces, rarely a spot where we settle down or linger. But thatâs precisely what makes them the prime canvas to experiment boldly, push boundaries, and create that âwowâ moment the second someone steps through the door.
Whether youâre an interior design enthusiast, a proud homeowner, or a DIY aficionado, the statement hallway is your chance to set the tone for your home. It’s where first impressions are made and personality shines throughâso why not make it extraordinary?
Why the Hallway?
Unlike living rooms or kitchens, hallways arenât spaces where functionality dictates every decision. This gives you the creative freedom to try everything from vivid hues and jaw-dropping lighting to daring patterns that would otherwise overwhelm a more frequently used room. Hallways are your blank design canvas!
And the best part? Since itâs likely a smaller area, you donât need a huge budget or timeline to make a big impact.
Ideas to Transform Your Hallway
1. Play with Bold Colours
If thereâs one place in your home to go all-out with rich, saturated shades, itâs the hallway. Think deep emerald greens, a punchy mustard yellow, or even a dramatic charcoal grey. These colours can create instant drama and set the mood for the entire home.
Feeling adventurous? Why not try dual tones? Paint the lower half of your hallway walls darker for a grounded, cosy feel, contrasted with a lighter upper half to keep the space open and airy. Or add a pop of contrast with a boldly painted skirting board or doorframe.
2. Splashy Wallpaper
Want more flair? Wallpaper is the magic ticket. Play with oversized botanical prints, geometric shapes, or vintage-inspired patterns to give your hallway bags of personality. A wallpapered hallway doesnât just add visual interest; it turns an often-forgotten area into a conversation starter.
Pro Tip: Consider peel-and-stick wallpaper if youâre a commitment-phobe or undertaking the project on your own. Itâs hassle-free and lets you easily switch things up in the future.
3. Patterned RunnersâWalk the Style Talk
Never underestimate the power of a killer runner. A boldly patterned rug can guide the eye and define the hallwayâs length, all while incorporating texture, warmth, and colour. From Moroccan-inspired designs to modern abstract styles, the options are endless.
Make sure to anchor the look with a non-slip rug pad underneath, especially on tiled or wood floors (staying stylish doesnât mean sacrificing safety!).
4. Flooring with the Wow Factor
Speaking of floors, the hallway is the ultimate stage for a statement surface. Brightly patterned tiles, herringbone woodwork, or monochromatic checkered designs can pack a visual punch. Don’t shy away from experimenting, as flooring is a fantastic way to add long-lasting character.
If youâre looking to DIY, peel-and-stick vinyl tiles are an affordable and accessible way to achieve high-end looks without professional help.
5. Epic Lighting Features
Why stop at functional lighting when you can go for show-stopping chandeliers or quirky pendant lights? Itâs time to ditch standard fixtures for something that will dazzle every visitor.
Statement lighting not only looks impressive but also creates mood and depthâperfect for setting your hallway apart. Add dimmers for flexibility, so your hallway can transition from vibrant and energising during the day to soft and welcoming at night.
6. Gallery Wall Goals
Turn your hallway into an artistic gallery! Adorn walls with framed prints, vintage artwork, or family photos for a deeply personal touch. Experiment with different frame sizes and styles to create a dynamic arrangement. A long horizontal hallway? Align your frames in a neat row. For smaller, shorter spaces, opt for a grid or asymmetrical positioning.
Pro Tip: Add a picture light above your gallery wall. Itâll draw the eye and showcase your art in the best light possible.
7. Mirrors Make Magic
Hallways can often lack natural light or feel a little cramped. Strategic mirror placement is an easy trick to counter this! A large, statement mirror at the end of the hallway creates the illusion of depth and expands the space.
For an even greater impact, try layering multiple smaller mirrors in different shapes for a playful, unique look.
8. Personal Touches
Lastly, make it yours. Add a console adorned with your favourite antique vase, a quirky umbrella stand, or even a stack of treasured books. Remember, hallways donât need to be utterly practicalâtheyâre all about creating an inviting first impression that reflects you.
Final Thoughts
A statement hallway isnât just a transition zone; itâs a declaration of your style. Whether youâre splashing on vivid colours, tiling the floors like an art gallery, or hanging an over-the-top chandelier, the options are endless. Itâs the one space in the house where bold choices can shine without hesitation.
Feeling inspired to transform your hallway? Grab a paintbrush, roll out that new runner or visit your local DIY store to bring your vision to life. Bold hallways await!
Lighting. Itâs one of the most transformative elements of your home. The right lighting can turn a dull corner into a cosy nook, elevate your dining room to a brilliant entertaining space, or transform your bedroom into the ultimate relaxation zone. But selecting the right lighting? That takes a little intention and know-how. Donât worry, thoughâIâm here to guide you through the process!
Why Lighting Matters
Lighting doesnât just brighten up your rooms; it sets the mood, dictates functionality, and impacts the overall design. Imagine stepping into a warm, softly lit living room after a long dayâitâs instantly comforting, right? Now, picture harsh overhead lighting glaring down. Uninviting, isnât it? Thatâs the power of lighting. When done right, it adds layers, texture, and atmosphere, bringing your spaces to life.
5 Key Considerations for Choosing the Ideal Lighting
Before you head out to your favourite shop or browse online catalogues, keep these five essential factors in mind to ensure your lighting choices leave a lasting impact.
1. Light Levels and Purpose
Start with function. Ask yourselfâwhat will this space be used for? A soft glow might set a dreamy mood in a bedroom, but youâll need brighter lighting for functionality in a kitchen or workspace. Break it down into three layers of lighting for the perfect balance:
Ambient Lighting (the roomâs overall illumination, like ceiling lights)
Task Lighting (focused lighting for specific activities, like reading lamps or under-cabinet kitchen lights)
Accent Lighting (for highlighting features like art or architectural details)
Each layer plays a unique role. Combine them, and youâll achieve a beautifully balanced space that’s both practical and stunning.
2. Mood and Atmosphere
Lighting has the unique ability to create mood and evoke emotions. Want to create a cosy, intimate setting? Opt for warm-toned bulbs or dimmable lights that allow you to adjust the brightness to your heartâs content. On the other hand, cool-toned lights work wonders in areas like bathrooms or offices, where you need enhanced focus and energy.
Consider adding smart lighting options that allow you to toggle between tones and intensities throughout the dayâitâs a simple way to set the vibe that fits the moment.
3. Style and Aesthetics
Your lighting fixtures are about more than just functionâtheyâre a chance to showcase your personal style. A sleek, sculptural pendant light can turn heads, while vintage sconces can infuse a room with timeless charm. When choosing fixtures, consider how theyâll complement your dĂŠcor scheme. Are you going for modern, industrial, bohemian, or classic?
Pro Tip: Donât mix too many different styles of lighting fixtures within the same roomâthey should feel cohesive, like an extension of your design story.
4. Layering Light for Impact
Ever walked into a room that felt flat or lifeless? Thatâs likely the result of relying solely on overhead lighting. To truly elevate your space, layer your lighting. Combine ambient lighting with task lamps and accents for a multidimensional look that shifts throughout the day or for different occasions.
For example, in the living room, you might have a central chandelier for ambience, table lamps for reading, and string lights to create a touch of whimsy.
5. Energy Efficiency and Practicality
Lighting impacts your energy bills, so opt for fixtures and bulbs that are energy efficient. LED bulbs, for example, use up to 75% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbsâand they last significantly longer too! Win-win, right?
Also, think about practicality. Are your chosen fixtures easy to clean and maintain? Do they work well with your space and furniture layout? Are the controls easy to use, or do they support smart home integration if youâre tech-savvy?
The Transformative Power of Lighting
Still wondering if the right lighting is worth the effort? Imagine thisâa room designed perfectly to your taste, every detail considered. But without the right light, those details are hidden in shadow. Lighting transforms design into experience, drawing attention to textures, colours, and edges while creating the mood you envisioned.
Take Action
Now it’s your turn. Step into your rooms, imagine how you want to feel in each one, and start envisioning your lighting scheme. Need more guidance? Speak to an interior lighting consultant or explore inspiration from design magazines and platforms like Pinterest.
Lighting isnât just functional; itâs a creative statement. Play with it. Dare to think outside the box. After all, with the right light, your home can glow like never before. â¨
