DIY Wall Decoration: Creative Ideas for Big, Empty Walls
A large, empty wall screams possibility—but if you find decorating stressful, that scream might be coming from you. Regardless of how you feel about home decor, there’s no denying that a blank wall can bring a lot of pressure.
Don’t worry! We’ve gathered seven stunning ideas to help you tackle that intimidating blank canvas. These DIY wall decoration strategies will help you transform your space and add a unique flair to your home.
1. Eclectic Gallery Wall
Creating a gallery wall is one of the easiest ways to fill a large space. The idea is simple: decorate your wall with a collection of small- to medium-sized pieces arranged artfully. For extra impact, include one or two larger pieces like oversized wall decals to anchor the arrangement.
There are many ways to build a gallery wall, and once you find a method that works for you, it becomes a fun and creative process. A good gallery wall balances consistency with contrast—try sticking to a loose color palette or theme, but don’t be afraid to mix in unexpected elements.
2. Print Set / Grid Gallery
The more structured sibling of the eclectic gallery is the grid gallery wall, which uses matching prints arranged in perfect symmetry. If you prefer a curated, cohesive look, framed print sets are a perfect solution. Platforms like Etsy are full of independent artists offering beautiful, coordinated prints.
Before you start hammering nails, carefully consider the layout. Check the sizes of your prints to make sure they fit well with appropriate spacing. Grid galleries usually look best centered on the wall—but don’t be afraid to experiment.
3. Oversized Art
Sometimes, bigger really is better. An oversized art piece can make a bold statement. Framed prints and paintings are classic choices, but custom framing can get pricey. In that case, consider alternatives like tapestries or vinyl wall murals.
Let your large piece speak for itself. Avoid overcrowding the wall with too many other elements—a minimal surrounding gives the art space to “breathe” and makes a more powerful impact.
4. Shelving
Shelves are incredibly versatile for wall decoration. They can hold everything from books and candles to cherished mementos, making them both decorative and practical. A set of wall shelves will quickly fill empty space and give you lots of styling options.
Freestanding shelves can add a traditional feel, while wall-mounted or even sliding rails are great space-saving solutions. Mix in small artwork or framed photos for contrast and texture.
5. Lighting Fixtures
There’s a lot you can do with lighting to bring life to a plain wall. Wall sconces are an elegant way to fill empty space, and they come in countless designs to suit any aesthetic.
Lighting can also enhance whatever else you choose to display. If you have a beautiful piece of art, consider accent lighting like recessed or track lighting to highlight it. On very large walls, combining different types of lighting can help divide the space visually.
6. Mounting a TV
If you haven’t settled on a spot for your TV yet, a large empty wall could be the perfect location—especially if it’s central and easy to view from the seating area. Wall-mounting a TV is a popular and doable DIY project, but if you’re unsure, hiring a professional is always a safe bet.
Once your TV is mounted, decorate the surrounding area. A floating console or entertainment unit provides stylish storage, while matching decor on either side of the TV creates balance. Don’t forget to plan for your sound system!
7. Houseplants
You don’t have to be a gardening expert to go green. Plants bring energy, life, and even mental health benefits to your home. Add a touch of greenery to your large wall and watch it come alive.
Choose plants that suit your skill level, and when in doubt, start small. Some decorators mix plants with art, shelves, or tapestries. Others build a plant-focused wall—a great option if only part of the wall receives sunlight. Either way, you won’t regret inviting a little piece of nature into your space.
