A gallery wall is a fantastic project to bring together while spending more time at home! Whether you’re looking to add color, create a focal point, or showcase cherished memories, a well-designed photo gallery wall can transform any space.
Our kitchen gallery wall was an unexpected addition something I hadn’t planned ahead but it has turned out to be one of my favorite design elements. The mix of ready-made frames, acid-free mats, and personal travel photos has infused our otherwise neutral kitchen with warmth and personality.
From Beverage Center to Gallery Wall
Initially, this wall was intended to be a built-in beverage station, complete with a coffee maker, wine fridge, and space for alcohol storage. However, when we decided to scale back our project to make it more manageable while our kids are in college, we cut that idea—at least for now! Instead, this cozy seating area in the kitchen has become one of the most inviting spots in our home, perfect for casual conversations and family gatherings.
Looking at the blank wall, I brainstormed several decorating options before borrowing four framed travel photos from our family room. Seeing how these colorful prints enhanced the space, I was inspired to curate an entire gallery wall. The result? A stunning and meaningful display that brings joy and nostalgia to our kitchen.
A Journey Through Our Travels
Over the years, I have experimented with different wall art concepts, including black-framed family photos and even a large custom canvas made from a printed shower curtain! While those previous designs had their charm, I wanted something fresh and bright this time around.
The new travel gallery wall features a white-on-white frame and mat combination, lending a crisp, contemporary feel to the space. Each image captures a cherished memory from our travels, ranging from scenic getaways in Cape Cod, Nantucket, and Lake Winnipesaukee to breathtaking trips to Hawaii and Ireland. The photos, though not professional-grade, hold sentimental value and create a cohesive, visually appealing display when grouped together.
Elevating Your Gallery Wall with Ready-Made Frames & Mats
Affiliate links are included in this post for your convenience. Read more about affiliate links here.
Having owned a professional framing company, I understand the power of quality framing. A well-chosen frame can elevate anything from a simple photograph to a cherished handwritten recipe, newspaper clipping, or even a child’s drawing. While custom framing is ideal for special, one-of-a-kind pieces, you can achieve an equally polished look using ready-made frames at a fraction of the cost.
Tips for a Professional-Looking Gallery Wall
Here are some essential tips to ensure your gallery wall looks curated and high-end, even with ready-made frames:
- Inspect frame corners: Ensure the miter joints are aligned and free of gaps or damage. I’ve listed my favorite frame recommendations at the end of this post—many of which I’ve used personally or seen in person.
- Use acid-free mats: This prevents your photos from yellowing over time. Most pre-cut mats today are acid-free, but it’s always good to double-check. If you’re framing something valuable or irreplaceable, make sure all materials in the frame (including the backer board) are conservation-grade.
- Opt for oversized mats: Larger mats create a museum-style aesthetic. While standard-sized mats work well, an oversized mat draws attention to the artwork and adds a polished finish.
- Custom-cut mats for unique sizes: If your artwork or photograph doesn’t fit a standard frame size, consider ordering custom mats. I recommend this company and this one, both of which I’ve used with great results. You can also check with local frame shops.
- Try thicker ply mats: A standard mat is 4-ply, but an 8-ply mat adds depth and richness. I love using these thicker mats, especially when framing prints as gifts. My favorite combination? A 16×20 frame with an 8-ply mat featuring an 8×10 opening. These mats, often used for wedding or graduation signatures, are acid-free and far more affordable than custom-cut 8-ply mats!
Recommended Sources for Frames & Mats
- Acid-Free 8-Ply Mat: This is my favorite 8-ply mat for a 16″x20″ frame with an 8″x10″ opening. It provides an elegant, oversized matting effect at a fraction of the price of custom-cut mats.
- Ikea Ribba Frame: Ikea Ribba is the best value for a 16×20 frame, making it a great choice for grid-style gallery walls.
- Target Snap Frame: This frame is a similar profile to the ones used in my gallery wall.
- Michael’s Studio Décor Frame: A chunkier frame that adds a bit more presence to your wall display.
Where to Print Your Travel Photos
Most of the pictures on our kitchen gallery wall were taken on our phones. If you’re looking to print your own travel photos, here are some great options:
- Quick Pickup (Decent Quality): Walgreens, CVS, Target
- Online Printing (Better Quality): Snapfish, Shutterfly
- Large-Scale Prints (Best Color Quality): Staples and UPS Print Services
Where to Buy Travel Photography
If you don’t have your own travel photos but still want to create a gallery wall with scenic photography, consider purchasing from talented artists:
- EyePoetry by Irene Suchocki: Beautiful travel photography on Etsy
- Sparks House Photography by Amy Rowland: Downloadable travel prints
- Victorias Stories by Victoria Metaxas: Gorgeous European cityscapes
Ready to Start Your Own Gallery Wall?
Writing this post has inspired me to tackle another gallery wall project for our living room. I hope this guide helps you create a stunning photo gallery wall using ready-made frames, mats, and beautiful travel photography.
This project is a fun and fulfilling way to refresh your home decor while reminiscing about your favorite places. Wishing you good health and a creative weekend ahead!
Pin This Post!
