Interior designers are increasingly advising homeowners to move away from expansive gallery walls, citing a shift towards more curated and intentional displays of personal photographs. Whereas family photos remain cherished, a chaotic arrangement of mismatched frames can detract from a home’s aesthetic, according to Teresa Mack Noval of A Design Company.
“While family photos are cherished, filling your home with countless picture frames in various finishes and colors can overwhelm the aesthetic of your space,” Mack Noval explained. “When photos are scattered across multiple surfaces in different styles—like mismatched frames from vacations—they can lose their impact and feel visually chaotic.”
The trend reflects a broader move towards creating spaces that feel “layered, personal, and lived-in,” according to Marie Flanigan, a Houston-based designer. This approach prioritizes texture, history, and craftsmanship, balancing the clean lines often found in modern interiors. Flanigan suggests sourcing tapestries, a growing trend for 2026, as an alternative wall covering that offers similar qualities.
Instead of scattering photos throughout a home, Mack Noval recommends grouping them in a single, cohesive display. This could take the form of a traditional gallery wall, a floating shelf, or a dedicated console table. The key, she says, is uniformity in frame finishes. “Frames can vary in size and subtle design details, but keeping the finishes uniform shifts the focus to the images themselves.” Acceptable finishes include matte black, brushed metal, or natural wood.
The advice from A Design Company aligns with a wider industry trend away from maximalism and towards more considered design choices. In 2025, designers predicted a rise in the use of curved sofas and bold lighting fixtures, signaling a desire for spaces that are both comfortable and visually striking. The emphasis on intentionality extends beyond photography, with designers urging homeowners to carefully curate their belongings and avoid impulsive purchases.
Finding the right pieces for these displays often requires patience. Flanigan recommends exploring vintage stores and online retailers like 1st Dibs and Chairish for unique and high-quality items. For those seeking a more accessible option, collaborations like the one between Drew Michael Scott of Lone Fox and Joon Loi offer reproductions of vintage tapestries at a lower price point.