Buying Picture Frames for Your Apartment:
6 Tips to Follow

 

Decorating your apartment is an exciting endeavor, and selecting the right picture frames can add a personal touch to your living space. The frames you choose can enhance your decor, protect your photographs and artwork, and express your style. Here are six essential tips to help you choose the perfect picture frames for your apartment.

 

8 picture frames on a wall. Image by Pexels

 

1. Consider the Decor and Style of Your Apartment

When choosing picture frames, it's crucial to consider the existing decor and style of your apartment. The frames should complement your furniture, color scheme, and overall aesthetic. For example, if your apartment has a modern look with sleek furniture and neutral colors, opt for minimalist frames with clean lines and a monochrome palette. On the other hand, if your space has a vintage or eclectic feel, you might want to choose ornate, antique frames with intricate details and bold colors. Matching your frames to the decor not only enhances the visual appeal but also creates a cohesive look throughout your apartment. Pay attention to the finish of the frames as well. Wood frames can add warmth and a natural feel, while metal frames can give a contemporary and polished look.

 

2. Choose the Right Size and Proportion

Selecting the right size and proportion of frames is essential to ensure they fit well within your space. Large frames can make a bold statement and serve as focal points on your walls, while smaller frames are perfect for creating a gallery wall or adding subtle accents. Consider the size of the artwork or photos you want to frame and choose frames that provide enough space for the pieces to be showcased effectively. It's also important to think about the proportion of the frames concerning the wall space. A small frame on a large wall can look out of place, while an oversized frame in a tiny room can be overwhelming. Measure your wall space and plan the layout of your frames accordingly.

 

3. Mix and Match Different Frame Styles

Don't be afraid to mix and match different frame styles to create a dynamic and interesting display. Combining various styles, colors, and materials can add depth and character to your apartment. For instance, you can pair a sleek black frame with a rustic wooden one, or a simple white frame with an ornate gold one. This eclectic approach allows you to showcase your personality and creativity through your decor. When mixing and matching frames, consider creating a common thread that ties them together. This could be a unifying color, material, or theme that runs through all the frames. For example, you might choose to use only black and white frames or stick to frames made from natural materials like wood and bamboo.

 

4. Pay Attention to Matting and Borders

Matting and borders play a significant role in framing your artwork and photographs. A mat is a piece of cardboard or paper placed between the frame and the artwork, adding a border that enhances the visual appeal and protects the artwork from direct contact with the glass. Matting can add depth and focus to your pieces, making them stand out more prominently. Choose a mat color that complements both the frame and the artwork. Neutral colors like white, cream, and black are versatile and can work with most frames and pieces. However, don't be afraid to experiment with colored mats to create a bold and unique look. Additionally, the width of the mat can impact the overall appearance.

 

5. Utilize Custom Framing Options

Sometimes, standard frame sizes and styles just won't cut it for your unique pieces. This is where custom framing comes into play. Custom framing allows you to choose the exact dimensions, materials, and styles that best suit your artwork and apartment decor. Services like Easy Frame offer a wide range of customizable options to ensure you get the perfect frame for your needs. Custom framing is especially beneficial for oddly shaped or oversized pieces that don't fit standard frame sizes. It also provides an opportunity to create a truly personalized look that reflects your taste and style.

 

6. Consider the Frame's Functionality and Durability

In addition to aesthetics, it's important to consider the functionality and durability of the frames you choose. Think about where the frames will be placed and the environmental conditions they will be exposed to. For instance, frames in high-humidity areas like bathrooms or kitchens should be moisture-resistant to prevent damage over time. Frames with UV-protective glass can help preserve the colors and quality of your artwork by protecting it from harmful sunlight. Additionally, consider frames with sturdy backing and hanging hardware to ensure they stay securely in place. Durable frames made from high-quality materials will stand the test of time and keep your artwork looking its best for years to come.

Lamp, vase, radio, on a table near a wall with a clock and a frame. Image by Pexels

 

Choosing the right picture frames for your apartment involves more than just picking out what looks good. It requires thoughtful consideration of your decor, the size and proportion of the frames, mixing and matching styles, paying attention to matting, utilizing custom framing options, and thinking about functionality and layout. By following these six tips, you can create a stunning and personalized display that enhances your living space and showcases your favorite artwork and photographs beautifully.