One of the most interesting and visually dynamic trends to emerge in recent years is the gallery wall designed around a TV. What began as a clever way to disguise an otherwise dominant black screen or integrate it with an entertainment center has turned into a creative expression that’s now a staple in interior design.
Thanks to platforms like Pinterest and Instagram, where interior inspiration is catchy, gallery walls around TVs have surged in popularity and remain a hot trend. The TV and artwork have become perfect co-stars.
Walk with us through the essentials of creating a stylish, interesting, and highly creative gallery wall around your TV – whatever your vibe, you’ll find an outlet for it here.
Great reasons for creating a gallery wall around your TV
You’re watching TV and suddenly you think: ‘Can I do something more with this space?’ Turns out you can do a lot, and here’s why a gallery wall might be just what you need:
- It adds personality to the space, giving you a unique combination of art and entertainment.
- It adds visual interest to TVs that are wall-mounted, or standing on a platform or furniture piece. Sometimes, TVs can look like they were put somewhere because it is convenient, but with a gallery wall to frame your TV, it will become part of a greater artwork.
- It’s a cool idea – and who doesn’t like cool ideas that you can customize and make your own?
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Step-by-step guide to designing your gallery wall
Designing a gallery wall isn’t just about hanging a few frames and calling it a day. To really nail the look, here’s a step-by-step guide to doing it right.
Step 1: Position your TV properly
Before you hang any artwork, ensure your TV is at the correct viewing height – typically eye level when seated. Once it’s mounted or placed on a TV stand, this becomes the anchor point for your layout, and you’ll position artwork around the TV.
Step 2: Choose a layout style
Before you start hammering nails into the wall, it’s important to choose a layout that aligns with your interior style and the scale of your space.
The layout is what brings cohesion to the wall; it’s the visual roadmap that ensures your artwork complements your TV rather than competes with it. Below are some of the most popular gallery wall layout options, each with its own unique charm and advantages:
1. Symmetrical grid layout
Perfect for modern, minimalist, or transitional interiors, this layout is all about clean lines and order. Imagine a grid of identical or similar-sized frames arranged evenly around your TV. It creates a structured, polished look that pairs beautifully with sleek furniture and simple color palettes. If you’re drawn to balance and harmony, this is the go-to option.
2. Organic or eclectic layout
This layout embraces asymmetry and freedom. Think of it as a carefully curated collection of different-sized frames, artworks, and maybe even mixed media pieces like woven art, hand-painted canvas, or wall sculptures.
The result is dynamic and full of personality, like a visual mood board. This style works particularly well in bohemian, artistic, or Scandinavian-inspired spaces, where individuality and creativity can shine.
Design Tip: Imagine creating a wall filled with artist, hand-painted canvases, displaying the art you love the most. Imagine how interesting, unique, and visually captivating you could make the wall if you had a wide selection of artwork to choose from. Paints Lab has a great collection of high-quality artwork to help you create your dream TV wall. See their collection now.
3. Linear or shelf-based layout
If you’re not ready to commit to multiple nail holes or want the flexibility to switch things up seasonally, shelves are your best friend.
Floating picture ledges or narrow display shelves let you lean artwork and layer pieces at varying heights. Add in small plants, books, or ceramics to create a dimensional, styled look. This option is especially effective for renters or anyone who loves to keep their decor fresh and ever-changing.
With Paints Lab, you can change your artwork as often as you change your mood. Buy high-quality abstract and graffiti art online, or seek advice before putting your artwork up by calling their team of experts. Contact Paints Lab
4. Perimeter layout
In this approach, the artwork frames the TV on all sides – top, bottom, left, and right – creating a border-like effect. It draws the eye inward and makes the screen feel like the centerpiece of a larger composition.
This layout is ideal for media rooms or living rooms where the TV is the primary focal point.
Step 3: Curate your art collection
After giving thought to your layout and the effect you want to create, it’s time to pick pieces that speak to you. You can choose one medium, art style, or even color palette. You can also mix and match – it’s up to you, but remember that design principles will help you keep everything looking like a cohesive whole.
Ideas include:
- Abstract paints
- Modern line drawings
- Black and White photography
- Botanical illustrations
- Family and travel photos
- Vintage posters
Further helpful information: Wall art size guide
Step 4: Select frames that work with the TV
Black or dark-toned frames complement modern TVs well. Alternatively, go for natural wood if you want a softer, more organic look. Keeping your frame tones consistent helps bring unity to the wall.
Frames are not a must. You can also go frameless or have boxed canvas paintings. There are a number of really good options for creating a gallery around the TV.
Step 5: Start hanging your art
Begin with the largest pieces closest to the TV and build outward. Keep 204 inches of space between the frames and maintain a 4-6 inch buffer around the TV itself. Use a level and picture-hanging tools to ensure the stability of your design.
Design Insight: Leave room for your art to ‘breathe’ around the TV. The goal is harmony and a peaceful visual, not competition.
How color can enhance your gallery wall
While art plays a leading role, don’t overlook the supporting star – the background wall color. The right paint shade can either help the TV recede or make the art pop. Here are a few tips:
- Use dark charcoal or navy to camouflage the screen.
- Choose warm neutrals like sand or taupe for a softer, cozy effect.
- Go bold with a terracotta or forest green to create drama and depth.
The color wheel can be a great help when it comes to color design and working out which background colors will best frame TV walls.
Bringing it all together
Designing a gallery wall around your TV is more than a trend – it’s a creative way to fuse style with functionality. Whether you lean minimalistic, eclectic, or traditional, there’s a layout and art combo that will feel right for your space.
Let your TV blend in or stand out – but let it do so surrounded by art that you love. With thoughtful planning, quality wall paint, and a little artistic flair, your TV wall can become the highlight of your home.
Ready to create a fantastic, stylish, or fun gallery wall? Then go all the way and buy artist created high-quality canvas art from Paints Lab. You’ll be surprised at how affordable their prices are and how easy it is to order artwork from them.