Bring on the Dopamine Decor
As I officially move out of my parents’ house and back into my college apartment in Madison, Wisconsin, this month, I’ve found myself reimagining what I want my shoebox-style space to look and, most importantly, feel like. One way I’ve decided to incorporate dopamine décor into my apartment is by creating my very own gallery wall, filled with framed slogans, places, and portraits that bring me joy.
“Dopamine Decor” has been blowing up on social media lately, and for good reason. Instead of plain, boring, neutral home accessories, people are embracing bold, exciting, colorful pieces that make a statement, saying “this quirky trinket—whether it be a lamp, coasters, or photo—makes me happy.” Hanging mismatched art in a collage format can feel intimidating, however. I know others may feel the same.
That’s why I have scoured the internet for tips and tricks to create a picture-perfect gallery wall on a budget. Whether you’re looking to revamp your living room, spruce up your staircase, or add some personality to your dining area, a thoughtfully curated gallery wall can do wonders for your space. So, let’s dive in and make your home a dopamine-fueled haven, shall we?
Choosing the Perfect Wall
The wall can’t be too small; it can’t be too big; it needs to be just right for you and your vision. When dreaming of a gallery wall, select a wall that can hold multiple frames. Hallways, above the living room sofa, along the staircase, or above the dining room tables are suitable places to consider when starting.
As I began planning my own gallery wall, I couldn’t help but be drawn to the empty stretch of wall above my couch. It was the perfect canvas to showcase my collection of eclectic art and personal mementos. I knew that with the right arrangement, I could transform this blank space into a vibrant, eye-catching display that would instantly lift my mood every time I walked into the room.
Framing the unexpected can also be a great way to add a unique touch to your gallery. Consider incorporating vintage scarves, buttons, baby clothes, or even silverware in shadowboxes to use in a kitchen or dining room. These unexpected elements can add depth and character to your wall, making it a true reflection of your personal style.
Curating the Perfect Ensemble
Whether you make your own Pinterest board or simply look at other people’s Gallery Wall Pins, Pinterest is a wonderful place to begin brainstorming. Decide what color palette you’d like to use, usually sticking to two or three colors with a handful of neutrals. After pinning some inspiration, begin collecting pieces for your gallery wall.
All the art doesn’t need to be bought overnight. During the gathering process, there is no need for rhyme nor reason—when shopping, simply think “oh, this makes me smile.” Set aside a predetermined amount each month to spend on your gallery wall. Gradually, at antique shops, farmers markets, and on vacations, pick pieces of your favorite people, places, and things that speak to you.
New can be (but doesn’t have to be) the name of the game here. Repurposing frames laying around your space or buying frames secondhand is a terrific way to cut down on costs and add character to your gallery wall. I’ve found some real gems at local thrift stores and flea markets, giving them a fresh coat of paint or a new mat to breathe new life into them.
Mapping Out the Perfect Layout
Once you’ve decided which framed pieces to use, tape up a template by tracing the frames and cutting outlines made from poster or wrapping paper. This way, you can move around the mock images as you see fit, ultimately helping you design the ideal gallery wall. A good place to start is by placing your biggest template in the middle of the wall. Then, build outward.
As I stood in my living room, staring at the empty wall, I felt a familiar sense of excitement and trepidation. Where do I even begin? But then, I remembered the trick of using paper templates to map out the layout. I grabbed some wrapping paper and got to work, cutting out the shapes of my frames and taping them up on the wall.
There are so many ways to hang or display pictures: a salon-style gallery, in a chain or ladder style, up a wall in a stairway, down the hallway in gallery style, floor-to-ceiling displays, leaned on shelves, or even on a bookcase. The possibilities are endless! I played around with the templates, arranging and rearranging them until I felt like I had the perfect flow.
Bringing It All Together
If you like the look of your template, it’s time to begin placing the pieces. Make light pencil marks on the wall on all four corners of the paper templates’ perimeters. Next, let the fun begin. Take down the paper and hang each piece one by one.
The best way to secure your frames is with command strips or earthquake putty. This makes for easy installation that’s made to stay put, with minor damage if there ever comes a time when the gallery wall must come down. I went with the command strips, as they were quick and easy to use, and I didn’t have to worry about making any unsightly holes in my walls.
As I carefully hung each piece, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. Seeing my collection of art, photos, and personal mementos come together in such a visually stunning way was incredibly satisfying. And the best part? I didn’t have to break the bank to make it happen.
A Joyful, Personalized Oasis
Now that your fabulous gallery wall is complete, sit back, relax, and maybe snap a photo or two of your new gallery wall, full of dopamine décor. With your picture-perfect gallery wall complete, I hope your space feels a bit more joyful and true to you.
ABC Home, the building and renovation company in Aberdeen, UK, can help you transform any room in your home into a personalized oasis, just like my gallery wall. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of whimsy to your living room or create a stunning focal point in your entryway, their team of expert designers and craftsmen can bring your vision to life.
As I sit back and admire my handiwork, I can’t help but feel a sense of joy and contentment wash over me. This gallery wall is a true reflection of my personality and the things that make me happy. And I know that whenever I walk into my apartment, I’ll be greeted by a dopamine-fueled display that instantly lifts my mood.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab those frames, start curating your collection, and get ready to transform your space into a picture-perfect oasis of your own. Your home deserves to be a source of endless delight and inspiration, and a thoughtfully designed gallery wall is the perfect way to make that happen.
