Richard E. Grant’s Gallery Wall Confirms That This Storytelling Design Trend Still Has Staying Power
Richard adds visual intrigue to his living area with a frame-adorned wall, showing us how impactful artwork and photographs can be in the home
Love them or hate them, gallery walls seem to be sticking around. Luckily, we are in the camp that enjoys the practice of covering the walls with engaging and beautiful works; it's a fantastic way to bring life to a space, as Richard E. Grant proves.
The actor's space, as seen on Instagram, is a haven of curiosities, with his living space displaying antique and vintage framed artworks, while a hardwood sideboard houses even more framed photographs.
Shop Gallery Wall Essentials
This carved wood frame would look best with a mini drawing or print placed at its center. It's an ornate, eclectic design that would look beautiful paired beside other picture frame styles.
This elegant brass picture frame is so sophisticated and will delicately catch the light, allowing your picture to shine without dominating.
This vintage-style flower still life is a classic choice that will hang proudly amongst other styles or with a collection of similar antique-inspired pieces.
With a thin metal frame, this piece is perfect for creating a sleek, modern gallery wall. Available in multiple sizes, it fits a variety of spaces.
The Coquille Mirror adds a playful touch with its curved edges, making a bold statement on any gallery wall.
Elevate your gallery wall with this striped frame, which adds a refined contrast and visual interest to simpler, more minimal frames, creating a sophisticated display.
Design experts approve of gallery walls thanks to their endless customization options and their ability to infuse life into even the most minimalist spaces.
'Gallery walls are an effortless way to elevate a space, allowing you to introduce both pattern and color with ease,' James Mellan-Matulewicz, creative director and interior designer at Bobbi Beck, says.
'They add a personal touch that makes a room feel more layered and considered. From framed prints and paintings to photographs and textiles, each piece tells a story and brings character to your walls.'
He continues, 'Blending frames into the backdrop is a great way to give a gallery wall a modern update. Reflecting current interior trends, choose warm, earthy palettes and use frame colors that complement your wall tones, allowing the artwork to sit harmoniously within the space. This tonal approach creates a more curated and elevated feel, moving away from cooler contrasts towards a softer, more cohesive look.'
As far as location goes, James recommends pretty much any area of the home that could benefit from some visual intrigue.
'A well-curated gallery wall can tie together the colors and textures within a room, transforming a blank wall into the perfect focal point,' he says. 'They work beautifully in hallways or staircases, without overwhelming the space. In kitchens, they can bring a traditional, cottagecore-inspired charm, while in bedrooms, they’re a perfect way to express personality.'
As I mentioned, you can get started with this antique wood frame from Magnolia, and add this Anthropologie mirror for an unexpected metallic touch.
As interior design trends shift toward warmth, personality, and lived-in spaces, gallery walls feel more relevant than ever. Richard E. Grant’s carefully curated display shows how thoughtful layering, tonal framing, and personal storytelling can transform even the simplest wall into something truly special.
