Use A Gallery Wall To Make Your Windows Pop

In most interiors, a few well-placed windows can make a major design difference, completely framing the space with a stunning focal point. But if your windows aren't the architectural showstopper that you wish they were, you might feel a bit stuck, since transforming them often requires a massive renovation project. What if there was a simple yet clever trick to make your windows pop without breaking the bank? One of the easiest ways to renovate your windows is by surrounding them with a curated gallery wall. Rather than filling a blank wall with assorted artwork, this design move frames your window with visual interest, drawing attention to the light source and elevating the space in the process.

The key is in how the eye responds to clusters of visual detail. When artwork is thoughtfully placed around or beside a window, it acts almost like a spotlight, directing attention toward the natural sunlight and anchoring the wall as a design feature. It can give a small, off-center, or minimally trimmed window a more balanced, intentional look that integrates it into the rest of your decor. This makes it especially handy if you can't (or don't want to) replace a window – just decorate around it instead.

This trick also introduces structure and depth to your space, especially in spaces that lack detail. Whether you stick with a simple black-and-white photo series or play with elements like color and texture, your windows become part of the design narrative, not something to be covered up. Plus, it's a clever way to enhance an existing feature without overpowering it or spending much more than the cost of a couple of picture frames.

To get started, gather a collection of artwork or photography that resonates with your preferred design style. You can honor family recipes with rustic decor frames surrounding your kitchen window. Or, showcase your favorite pictures around a cozy reading nook. This doesn't mean that everything needs to be monotonous or match perfectly — varying frame sizes and styles can actually make an arrangement feel more dynamic. But there should be a thread of cohesion, whether it's a uniform pop of color or a consistent theme throughout the artwork. 

When designing a gallery wall around a window, consider placing pieces on either side of the window or just above it, depending on how much space you have. You don't need to completely surround your window either, as this can create too much visual information and overwhelm the space. Even a partial display of artwork can make it feel centered and deliberate. Just be sure to leave a few inches of breathing room between the window trim and the nearest frame so that the area doesn't feel crowded.

Before you start hammering nails into your walls, map out your arrangement. A great method to create the perfect gallery wall is to cut out paper templates of each frame size and then tape them to the wall. This allows you to step back and reflect on your design without an extra set of hands before you hang anything up on the walls. Painter's tape is also a low-commitment way to visualize spacing, make adjustments, and avoid any unnecessary holes. Mix in mirrors or minimalist prints to keep things feeling light and airy, and to open up the space even further.