Seth SmootIn recent years, the design space has been dominated by millennial gray and ultra-modern minimalism. However, there is now a growing desire for cozy aesthetics that feature personalized touches and more maximalist tendencies. This trend includes elaborate heritage-printed textiles, mix-matching vintage furniture, and embracing saturated spaces. Hanging plates on walls perfectly fits into this aesthetic, offering a great way to showcase thrifted treasures or family heirlooms.
Continue reading to discover more about this trend, including insights from experts and interior designers on curating and hanging plate collections.
Expert Profiles:
– Gideon Mendelson, founder and creative director of Mendelson Group
– Jacqueline Mersene, interior designer of Mersene Studios
Hanging Plates on Walls: Exploring the Trend
Arranging plates on walls is a classic interior design technique that has seen a resurgence in popularity. Rooted in nostalgia, this trend allows for a creative and personalized aesthetic. The decorative plates can evoke a range of styles, from funky eclectic to understated and chic.
Gideon Mendelson notes, “Homeowners are increasingly seeking unique ways to add personal touches to their spaces. Incorporating plates, especially heirlooms or vintage finds, offers a canvas for personalization and a blend of old and new elements.” Jacqueline Mersene echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of surrounding yourself with items that bring joy and memories into your home.
How to Display Plates on a Wall Like a Pro
Follow these steps to create an eye-catching plate gallery wall or opt for freestanding or hanging shelves to exhibit your decorative plates.
Step 1: Select Your Plates
When creating a plate gallery wall, focus on choosing plates that feel special and reflect your personal style. Mix and match designs within a cohesive color scheme or balance ornate plates with simpler ones for a harmonious display.
Tip: Choose flatter, shallow plates for easier hanging and increased stability on the wall.
Step 2: Determine the Location
Identify a suitable spot in your home for the plate display. While the kitchen or dining room is a natural choice, consider other areas such as hallways, bathrooms, living rooms, or bedrooms. Ensure the location allows for the plates to be showcased without risk of being bumped.
Step 3: Arrange Your Plates
Once you have your plates and chosen wall space, lay out the plates to plan the best arrangement. Experiment with different layouts to find the most visually appealing configuration for your plate gallery.
“Experiment with various combinations to find what suits you best. I enjoy laying them all out on the floor and rearranging them until a particular arrangement resonates with both my eyes and heart,” shares Mersene. Capture a photo of your arrangement for reference in the next step.
Step 4: Transfer the Design to the Wall
Before hanging the plates, outline your arrangement on the wall. Use a measuring tape and level to ensure equal spacing, lightly marking key points with a pencil. Painter’s tape can be useful for outlining plate positions before committing to nails or adhesive.
Step 5: Hanging the Plates
Now, proceed to hang your plates on the wall. Begin with the central plate and expand outward while referring to your original layout. Verify alignment as you hang each piece to maintain balance.
Mendelson recommends using plate hangers, such as Michael’s Studio Décor Plate Hanger. These hangers secure the plate by stretching over it and include a component for hanging it with a hook or nail. Ensure to select a size compatible with your plate’s diameter.
Alternatively, consider adhesive disc hangers, plate racks, or heavy-duty Command Strips. To add a decorative element, use ribbon or wire for plates with built-in holes or discreet hooks. Regardless of the method chosen, ensure the plates are securely fastened to prevent accidents.
Step 6: Making Adjustments
Review your plate gallery for any imbalance. Make additions, removals, or substitutions until the design feels harmonious to you. Mendelson suggests experimenting with different sizes to create a focal point and visual interest.
Remember, there are no strict rules, so unleash your creativity to achieve the perfect plate gallery wall.
