8 Creative Alternatives to Picture Frames for Living Room Wall Decor

You’ve probably spent countless hours scrolling through Instagram and Pinterest, swooning over those beautifully curated gallery walls that seem to effortlessly elevate any space. But guess what? We’re about to turn the décor game upside down. There are a ton of ideas for decorating walls in a living room!

Picture frames? Sure, they’re classic, but let’s be real – they’re a tad overdone. While picture frames are a classic choice, there’s a world of alternatives out there waiting to be explored. It’s time to get bold, break some design rules, and give your walls a chic makeover that screams you. Here are some great alternatives to those predictable picture frames. Say goodbye to cookie-cutter décor and hello to a wall that’s as unique as your style.

Floating Shelves

Floating shelves are a fantastic way to display your favorite items. You can arrange books, plants, decorative pieces, or even small sculptures to add a touch of elegance to your space. Mix and match various-sized shelves to create an eye-catching wall display.

Picture frames are lovely, no doubt about it, but let’s talk about versatility. Floating shelves are the sleek, contemporary cousin that’s all about that chic, minimalist vibe. They effortlessly marry form and function by providing a stylish platform for showcasing your prized possessions – be it art, plants, or decorative pieces.

What I adore most about floating shelves is their adaptability. You can switch up your décor seasonally or whenever the mood strikes without having to mess with pesky nails and wall holes. Plus, they’re not just for displaying; they double as storage, which is music to any space-saving aficionado’s ears. So, if you’re looking to up your décor game and add a dash of trendy sophistication to your living room, ditch the frames and embrace the beauty of floating shelves. Trust me, your walls will thank you!

Wall Decals and Murals

Wall decals and murals are an excellent option for those who crave bold and artistic statements. They come in various styles, from nature-inspired scenes to abstract art. Applying them is a breeze, and they can be easily removed without damaging your walls.

Let’s be real, while picture frames have their charm, sometimes they can feel a bit, well, predictable. If you’re like me and want to shake things up a bit, wall decals and murals are the way to go. These gems not only breathe life into your space but also add a unique and personalized touch that’s sure to get your guests talking.

Wall decals come in a plethora of designs and sizes, from minimalist geometric patterns to intricate botanicals. Plus, they’re a breeze to apply and remove without leaving a mark – perfect for renters and commitment-phobes like me! If you’re feeling artsy, custom decals can even showcase your own artwork or favorite quotes. For those wanting to make a real statement, murals are where it’s at. Think dreamy landscapes, abstract art, or even a cityscape that transports you to your favorite place in the world. The best part? They’re entirely customizable, making it a cinch to find the perfect piece that speaks to your soul.

If you’re ready to ditch the frames and embrace a chic, Instagram-worthy look for your living room, give wall decals and murals a whirl. Trust me; it’s the perfect way to infuse some personality into your space without breaking the bank. Your walls will thank you!

Woven Wall Hangings

Embrace the boho-chic trend with woven wall hangings. These intricate and textured pieces come in various sizes and styles, making them a versatile choice to add warmth and personality to your walls.

Picture frames can be a bit, well, ubiquitous. But woven wall hangings? They bring texture, warmth, and a touch of boho-chic to your space. The best part? They’re incredibly versatile. Whether you’re into minimalism, bohemian vibes, or even a modern aesthetic, there’s a woven wall hanging to match your style. Plus, they’re perfect for adding a pop of color or a calming neutral tone to your living room.

Woven wall hangings also allow you to play with scale and create a focal point that’s uniquely yours. They’re not just decorative; they tell a story and can be a conversation starter for your guests. So, if you’re looking to elevate your living room décor game and step away from the ordinary, consider ditching those frames and embracing the artistry of wall woven wall hangings.

Plate Collage

Raid your grandma’s china cabinet or hit up a thrift store for some vintage plates. Create an eye-catching collage by hanging these beautiful pieces on your wall. You can arrange them symmetrically or play with different shapes and sizes for a more eclectic look.

It’s all about mixing and matching a collection of beautifully designed plates to create a visually stunning focal point in your living room. The best part? There are endless possibilities to customize your collage. You can play with different plate sizes, colors, patterns, and textures to suit your unique style. Vintage, modern, boho, or eclectic – there’s a plate collage for every aesthetic.

Not only does this trend add a touch of personality and sophistication to your space, but it also gives you the chance to showcase your own personal tastes and travels. Whether you’re scouring flea markets for one-of-a-kind plates or picking up souvenirs from your adventures, each piece tells a story. So, next time you’re considering how to breathe new life into your living room, ditch the predictable picture frames and give plate collages a try.

Shadow Boxes

Shadow boxes are perfect for showcasing three-dimensional items. Display collections of seashells, antique keys, or figurines in these boxes, and hang them as a stunning, conversation-starting wall display.

Shadow boxes are perfect for displaying cherished mementos like seashells from your last beach vacation or vintage trinkets from a thrift store haul. The beauty lies in their ability to turn everyday objects into art. Plus, you can easily swap out the contents to keep your decor dynamic. Arrange a cluster of shadow boxes in various sizes and shapes for a captivating gallery wall that tells your story in a chic, minimalist way.

Floating Plants

If you’re a plant lover, consider creating a vertical garden on your wall. Hang planters or shelves to display your green friends. This not only adds life to your space but also purifies the air in your home.

Greenery is the secret weapon of interior design, and it’s not just confined to potted plants. Floating plants are an absolute game-changer when it comes to living room wall decor. Hanging air plants, succulents, or even lush moss in geometric wall-mounted containers brings a fresh, organic feel to your space.

These living art pieces not only purify your air but also add a calming, zen-like vibe to your home. The best part? They require minimal maintenance. Simply mist them occasionally and watch them thrive. Group them together for a living tapestry or scatter them throughout your living room to create a whimsical, eco-friendly atmosphere that’s nothing short of Instagram-worthy.

Gallery Wall with Other Objects

Create a unique gallery wall by mixing in various objects alongside your artwork. Incorporate vintage mirrors, clocks, or even musical instruments for a gallery wall that tells a story.

When it comes to personalizing your living space, think beyond traditional frames. Why not curate a gallery wall using a mix of unique objects? Vintage mirrors, decorative plates, and even antique musical instruments can all be part of your art display. This eclectic approach adds character and tells your story in a way that standard frames simply can’t.

Start by collecting pieces that resonate with you and work on arranging them in a balanced composition. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different shapes, sizes, and textures. The result? A living room that reflects your personality and creates a conversation piece that will have your guests talking for hours.

Framed Fabric or Textiles

Instead of traditional art, frame beautiful textiles, vintage scarves, or even pieces of your favorite fabric. This adds color, texture, and a touch of your personal style to your walls.

Textiles are a fantastic way to infuse warmth and texture into your living room decor. Instead of traditional artwork, consider framing your favorite fabrics, tapestries, or even vintage scarves. This unconventional approach adds a touch of bohemian chic to your space.

Look for textiles with patterns or colors that resonate with your overall design scheme. Whether it’s a vibrant Turkish rug or an intricate batik fabric, framing these pieces allows you to showcase your appreciation for craftsmanship and global aesthetics. Mix and match framed textiles with other décor elements for a living room that’s as unique as you are.

Mix and match different ideas, play with colors, textures, and styles, and don’t be afraid to take risks. Your home should be a reflection of your unique taste and personality, and these alternatives to picture frames will help you achieve just that.

Let me know in the comments if you’re team picture frames or team any of the above and you’ve found that these ideas for decorating walls in a living room have given you inspiration to decorate! Happy decorating!