These tried-and-true configurations are the starting point for all sorts of creative wall groupings. Pull together a polished gallery wall by beginning with one of these five configurations.

1. STACK IT

Stacked artworks well on walls that are begging for something special but don’t have much room for frames. Walls between windows, doorways or in an awkward corner are a great place to showcase a vertical assemblage of art.

Designer Tip: Leave enough space on either side of the frames so they aren’t too cramped up against adjoining walls or mouldings. The frames can be different widths, just make sure you keep a centre vertical line that everything hangs off of.

2. PERFECTLY BALANCED FRAMES

If you have a collection of matching frames or a grouping of similar-sized artwork, this setup is your best bet. Create a symmetrical grid using all the same frames and mats. The size of your wall will dictate how many frames across and down you can do. Measure carefully and leave equal spacing between each frame.

Designer Tip: Add a dose of colour by choosing one bright hue for all your mats. Black and white photographs or neutral prints look brand new when a mat adds a powerful punch of colour.

3. CURATE A SMALL COLLECTION

Begin with a confined space to mix and match your collection. Smaller spaces like a powder room wall or a wall at the end of a hallway are perfect for creating an organized configuration because you have to stick within the confines of the space.

Designer Tip: Choose one element that ties everything together like a mat colour, frame or similar tones. Consider mirrors, textiles or anything else you might want to hang on the wall to give your collection more dimension.

4. HORIZONTAL BANDS

If hanging isn’t your thing or you can’t commit to putting a nail in your wall, choose a long surface like a console, dresser or the top of a bookshelf to display your art. Rest frames across the top (overlapping a tad can tie the group together), and move art around until you’ve created a beautiful assemblage that works along the surface.

Designer Tip: If you don’t have a piece of furniture that works, install a picture ledge or wall shelves to lean your artwork on. Got lots of art and need more space? Do one picture ledge a few feet off the ground and then several more horizontal bands of ledges above to house an entire art collection.

5. SPONTANEOUS GROUPINGS

Some of the best gallery walls look like they’ve evolved over time. Although it is counterintuitive, you can achieve this haphazard look by planning out your arrangement. Simply trace your frame sizes on large pieces of newspaper or wrapping paper, cut them out and play around with different arrangements on the wall until you find the one you like.

Designer Tip: Use painter’s tape to move paper around easily without damaging your wall. Once you are ready to hang, install the hangers right over the cut-out paper to ensure you’ve got the frames in the right spot.