Hallway Gallery Wall
How I Created My Hallway Gallery Wall (and Had an Excuse to Go Thrifting!)
There’s just something about a well-curated gallery wall that makes a home feel extra special! I’ve been thrifting and estate sale-hopping for months, collecting frames and unique pieces, but even after all that—I still didn’t have enough to finish my hallway wall. So, naturally, I had to take another trip to my favorite antique shop, Queen of Hearts, and grab a few more fun finds. (I mean, twist my arm, right?)
Once I had everything, it was time to get to work! Here’s how I put it all together:
Step-by-Step: Hanging a Gallery Wall Like a Pro
Trace & Cut – I traced each piece onto brown paper and cut them out individually. Pro tip: Mark the orientation on each paper cutout, so you don’t accidentally hang anything upside down later.
Plan Your Layout – Using painter’s tape, I arranged and rearranged my paper cutouts on the wall until I found a layout I loved. The best part? You can move them around as many times as you want before committing!
Toothpaste Trick for Easy Nail Placement – This hack is a game changer! I dabbed a little toothpaste on the back of each piece where it hangs on the nail, then gently pressed it against the wall. When I pulled it away, it left the perfect little mark for where to hammer my nail!
Hang It Up! – I removed the paper cutouts, hammered in my nails (or used hooks where needed), and hung each piece. A handheld level helped keep things straight, but if you have a laser level, even better!
How I Hung My Pieces
None of my pieces were too heavy, so I used a mix of:
✔ A picture hanging kit
✔ Velcro Command Hooks for 1-2 pieces
✔ These awesome new plate hangers I found (a great way to mix in non-frame pieces!)
And that’s it! My gallery wall is officially up, and I LOVE how it turned out! There’s even a little room at the top to grow—which means more thrifting trips in my future. (Like I needed an excuse!)
If you’ve been thinking about starting a gallery wall, do it! It’s such a fun way to showcase your style, and with these simple steps, it’s easier than you think. Happy decorating!!
For all of my gallery wall essentials click here!!
IF YOU ENJOYED THIS POST, YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN My color drenching post!
FOLLOW ME ON MY SOCIALS!
Color Drenching
Transform Your Space with Color Drenching
If you love bold, statement-making interiors, color drenching might just be your new favorite design trick! This trend is all about embracing a single hue and using it across walls, ceilings, trim, and even furniture for a rich, immersive effect. Whether you want to create a cozy, moody vibe or a bright, energetic space, color drenching is an easy way to make a big impact. Let’s dive in!
Moody Elegance: Color Drenching in the Primary Bedroom
This stunning room is a perfect example of the power of color drenching. Painted in Field Trip by Clare, the deep olive green envelops the walls, ceiling, trim, and even doors in an ultra-cohesive and immersive atmosphere. The single-hue approach enhances the room’s architectural details, making the intricate molding and paneling stand out in a sophisticated way. The eggshell sheen adds a subtle warmth and soft texture that elevates the space.
This space proves that color drenching isn’t just about painting everything the same shade—it’s about layering textures, finishes, and complementary tones to create a truly stunning effect!
If there's something in this room that catches your eye and you'd like the link, just click here!
A Bold and Inviting Hallway with Color Drenching
Hallways are often overlooked in design, but this space shows how a rich, saturated color can elevate even the most transitional areas into something special. Painted in Reddened Earth by HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams, the warm, earthy tone envelops the walls, trim, and ceiling in a cozy yet dramatic embrace. This terracotta-inspired hue adds depth and warmth, creating a welcoming atmosphere as you move through the space.
Color drenching here brings out the architectural details, allowing the moldings and doorways to flow seamlessly into the design, avoiding any interruptions to the visual flow. The warm undertones complement the natural wood elements and soft lighting, enhancing the intimacy and stylish vibe of the space. The walls and ceiling are finished in satin sheen, while the doors have a semi-gloss finish. If I had to do it again, I would opt for satin on the doors as well—the semi-gloss feels a bit too glossy for my taste.
This hallway proves that even the smallest spaces can make a big impact with the right color and finish choices!
If there's something in this room that catches your eye and you'd like the link, just click here!
Soft & Serene: A Dreamy Bedroom with 50% Malted Milk
For a cozy yet elevated feel, this 50% Malted Milk by Sherwin-Williams color-drenched bedroom is the perfect balance of warmth and softness. By using a lighter, custom-mixed version of this creamy beige, the space feels airy and inviting while still offering a rich, enveloping effect. The walls, ceiling, and trim all blend seamlessly, creating a soothing and cohesive environment—perfect for a restful retreat.
The eggshell sheen adds just the right amount of softness while reflecting a touch of light, keeping the space feeling warm and welcoming. Looking back, I would opt for 100% Malted Milk instead for a bit more depth and richness, but this toned-down version still creates a beautiful and serene atmosphere.
Color drenching in this subtle, warm tone proves that neutrals can be just as impactful as bold colors, bringing depth and character while maintaining a timeless, calming aesthetic.
If there's something in this room that catches your eye and you'd like the link, just click here!
Fiery & Bold: A Red Bathroom
For a bathroom with impact, Salute by Sherwin-Williams is the perfect deep red hue. Its rich, warm tone envelops the space, creating a bold yet inviting atmosphere. Paired with crisp white trim, the contrast highlights the red's intensity without feeling overwhelming.
The eggshell sheen offers a soft luster, reflecting light while maintaining the color's depth and drama. This striking shade pairs beautifully with gold hardware and dark wood, creating a dynamic yet cozy retreat. Salute proves that bold colors can add warmth and character, transforming a bathroom into a memorable space.
If there's something in this room that catches your eye and you'd like the link, just click here!
Bright & Airy: A Sunroom Drenched in Light
For a sunroom that celebrates natural light, Maison Blanche by HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams is the perfect soft, creamy white. The hue captures the sunlight streaming through the windows, enhancing the space with a fresh, open feel. Color drenching the walls, ceiling, and trim creates a seamless, airy environment that feels expansive and peaceful.
The satin sheen adds a subtle glow, reflecting light while maintaining a smooth, sophisticated finish. The warm undertones of Maison Blanche complement the abundance of natural light, making the room feel both bright and inviting. This soft white pairs effortlessly with light wood furniture and vibrant greenery, transforming the sunroom into a serene retreat that feels connected to the outdoors.
If there's something in this room that catches your eye and you'd like the link, just click here!
A Playroom Full of Color & Fun
For a lively and cheerful playroom, Pressed Flower by Sherwin-Williams brings the perfect pop of color. This soft, yet vibrant hue adds warmth and energy to the space, creating an environment where creativity can flourish. Drenching the walls in this joyful tone envelops the room in a welcoming, playful atmosphere.
The flat finish provides a smooth, understated look, but I recommend opting for eggshell for a bit more durability and a subtle sheen that’s easier to clean. Pressed Flower pairs beautifully with colorful toys, playful patterns, and cozy textures, making it a space where fun and imagination can run wild. It’s the perfect backdrop for a room that will grow with your child, offering both whimsy and warmth.
If there's something in this room that catches your eye and you'd like the link, just click here!
A Tranquil Blue Bathroom Retreat
Norwegian Blue by Behr brings a calming, cool tone to this beautifully color-drenched bathroom. The front room, with its sinks, features a floral wallpaper that adds texture and depth, while the back room—containing the toilet and shower—embraces the full power of this rich blue, creating a serene and cohesive feel throughout.
The eggshell sheen offers a soft, reflective glow that enhances the depth of Norwegian Blue, providing just the right amount of light without being too shiny. The color works harmoniously with the bathroom's fixtures and textures, making the space feel both fresh and tranquil. Whether you’re washing up or relaxing, this blue bathroom offers a peaceful retreat that feels timeless and inviting.
If there's something in this room that catches your eye and you'd like the link, just click here!
Warm & Inviting: A Guest Room with Rich Comfort
Nut Brown by Behr creates a cozy and welcoming atmosphere in the guest room, wrapping the space in a rich, earthy hue. Color drenching the walls in this deep brown gives the room a grounded, intimate feel, perfect for guests to relax and unwind.
The eggshell sheen adds a soft, subtle glow that highlights the depth of Nut Brown without overpowering the space. This warm, inviting color pairs beautifully with plush bedding, soft lighting, and natural wood accents, creating a serene environment that makes every guest feel at home. The timeless richness of Nut Brown ensures the room remains stylish and comfortable, offering a restful retreat for anyone who stays.
If there's something in this room that catches your eye and you'd like the link, just click here!
IF YOU ENJOYED THIS POST, YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN MY playroom makeover.
FOLLOW ME ON MY SOCIALS!
DIY: Big Wall Art
How to Make Your Own Large-Scale Art on a Budget
Big art can be pricey, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a statement piece in your home! I wanted a large-scale art piece without the hefty price tag, so I got creative and made one myself. Here’s how you can do it too!
Finding the Perfect Fabric
I stumbled upon a roll of upholstery fabric at an antique store for just $21—score! If you’re on the hunt for fabric, check out thrift stores, antique shops, or even repurpose curtains or shower curtains.
Building the Frame
I figured out the measurements for the size I wanted and luckily had some scrap 1x4s lying around, so I used those to create the frame. If I were to redo this, I’d add a center support piece for extra stability, but it worked out just fine!
To assemble the frame, I connected my 45-degree cuts using wood glue, brad nails, and a LOT of heavy-duty staples—seriously, like five staples per joint. It might look a little Frankenstein-ish, but hey, no one will see that part!
Attaching the Fabric
Once my frame was solid, I draped the fabric over the non-stapled side and flipped it over to make sure the pattern was straight. I started by stapling a row at the top to keep the fabric in place, then trimmed off the excess.
For the best results, I pulled the fabric tight, stapled a few spots, moved to the next side, and repeated—just working my way around to keep everything straight and even.
Hanging It Up
To hang the piece, I attached two D-ring hooks. I don’t remember the exact measurements, but I made sure to place them evenly (for example, 3 inches from the side and 2 inches from the top).
Then came the moment of truth—flipping it over for the big reveal!
I use a laser level to make sure it was on the wall perfectly straight, used toothpaste on the D-rings so I knew exactly where to put in my screws, and used anchors where there were no studs.
I absolutely love how this turned out, and it was such a budget-friendly way to get a large art piece! If you’re thinking of making your own, you can use all kinds of fabric—curtains, shower curtains, or whatever catches your eye. Give it a try and let me know how yours turns out!
If you enjoyed this post, you might be interested in my hallway makeover.
Follow me on my socials!
Hallway Makeover
What was once a plain, white hallway has now become a rich and dramatic space, thanks to wall trim, paint, new lighting and a lot of second hand finds.
Architectural Details & Moulding Upgrades
Before painting, I wanted to enhance the walls with architectural details. I added:
Chair rail (2 styles stacked) and box moulding (basecap) to the lower third of the walls for depth and texture.
Basecap moulding to the tops of my existing baseboards for an upgraded, built-in look.
Basecap trim to my 3-panel doors to add extra interest and cohesion.
These small additions made a huge difference in making the hallway feel elevated and custom. I would love to add crown moulding soon!
Paint
Color drenching was my go-to in this space using a bold coat of Reddened Earth by HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams in a satin sheen. This warm, dusty pinky-brown hue completely transformed the area, adding depth and character while making it feel both inviting and intentional. I love how this color brings a sense of coziness while still making a statement.
Gold Details
I swapped out standard hardware for vintage-inspired solid brass doorknobs, which instantly elevated the charm of each doorway. To keep the look cohesive, I also installed solid brass light switch covers, gold outlets, and gold door hinges. These small but impactful details add a polished, timeless feel and complement the overall moody aesthetic of the space. The richness of the brass contrasts beautifully with the deeper tones in the hallway, making everything feel thoughtfully curated.
Vintage Lighting & DIY Conversions
Lighting played a big role in this makeover. I swapped out the old can lights for three vintage-inspired pendant lights that I found on Amazon (affordable and such a great find!). To make this switch, I used a can light converter, which made it super easy to install the new fixtures without an electrician and add that charming, collected feel.
DIY Gallery Wall
The focal point of the hallway is undoubtedly the collected gallery wall. I spent months sourcing the pieces from estate sales and thrift shops, and I love how each one tells a story. The mix of art, frames, and vintage finds adds so much character and makes the space feel curated and personal. (Shop my gallery wall essentials here!)
Statement Artwork & Decorative Finds
On the adjacent wall, I created a large square artwork piece using leftover wood and beautiful fabric I found at Queen of Hearts, an antique store here in Georgia. The size and floral pattern make it such a unique, personal piece.
Another standout is the bell tapestry in the center of the wall, an estate sale treasure that brings a hint of old-world charm. The brass bow plate hanger (also from Queen of Hearts) holds vintage plates I sourced from an estate sale, adding a whimsical, elegant touch. And that big red mirror? Another $30 estate sale find that ties in perfectly with the new wall color.
Finishing Touch: The Washable Rug
The hallway still features the same washable rug I’ve had for a while, and I love that it still complements the new color scheme beautifully. It adds a layer of coziness and practicality without clashing with the bold walls.
This hallway makeover proves that small spaces can have big impact when you embrace color, texture, and thoughtful details. The mix of vintage finds, DIY elements, and rich color truly makes it feel intentional, curated, and full of personality. I’m so happy with how it turned out!