9. Monochromatic Ledge Galleries
Creating a “gallery” shelf is a classic technique, but making it monochromatic brings it into the modern era. By using a long, slim picture ledge in the same color as your wall, you create a space where your art and decor seem to float. The goal here is to overlap your frames slightly, creating a layered, collected look that feels effortless. This is a very low-stakes way to decorate because you can swap out the art and photos as often as you like without needing to re-hang anything.
How to Make
Mount a deep, thin picture ledge shelf across the length of your bed or a feature wall. Use a mixture of differently sized frames—some vertical, some horizontal. The secret is to overlap the frames so that they don’t look like they are lined up in a row. Add a small decorative object, like a brass paperweight or a dried flower bud in a small vial, in the gaps. Because everything is monochromatic, the variety in frame sizes and object shapes is what provides the visual interest.
Things Needed
- Long picture ledge shelf
- Assorted frames in the same color palette
- Overlapping art prints
- Small decorative objects
- Level and drill
- Wall paint matching the shelf
