Interior Design Picture Frames

How to choose a “designer-approved” frame look

This category is best when your priority is coordination—frames that support a room’s palette, furniture tones, and overall aesthetic. Use the checkpoints below to keep the result cohesive.

• Profile and presence: Slim mouldings feel modern and quiet; medium-width profiles feel classic; more visible grain and texture reads rustic and organic.
• Edge shape: Sharp edges tend to feel contemporary; softer, rounded edges can feel more traditional and relaxed.
• Finish reflectivity: Matte finishes read softer and more contemporary; more reflective finishes can appear brighter and more prominent under strong lighting.

Size planning, proportion, and layout (gallery walls and focal pieces)

Choose frame size based on the art size first, then adjust the overall scale to the wall area. A tight gallery wall usually looks best with slimmer profiles and consistent spacing; a single statement piece can handle more visual weight.

• Small accents: 4x6 and 5x7 work well in corridors, shelves, and tight groupings.
• Mid-size statements: 8x10 and 11x14 help anchor a cluster or balance a console table vignette.
• Large focal pieces: 16x20, 18x24, and 24x36 create a clear center above a sofa, bed, or mantel.
• Orientation: Mix portrait and landscape intentionally; keep spacing consistent to avoid a “floating” look.

If you’re unsure how to measure or plan sizing, use the artwork measuring guide and the custom frame sizes guide.

Matting: when it helps (and when it doesn’t)

Matting is one of the easiest ways to make a wall display feel finished. It adds breathing room, can visually unify mixed art styles, and often elevates smaller pieces so they don’t feel lost on a larger wall.

• Choose matted when you want a classic gallery feel, need extra visual separation around detailed art, or want to standardize the look across varied sizes.
• Choose unmatted when you want a cleaner, modern look or when the artwork already has strong margins and you prefer a full-bleed presentation.

To explore mat options for a coordinated presentation, see custom mats and matboard.

Finish coordination tips by room style

• Modern/minimalist rooms: Slim profiles in matte black, satin black, or crisp white keep the focus on the art and maintain clean lines.
• Warm, organic interiors: Natural oak tones and walnut tones pair well with natural materials and warmer palettes.
• Classic/transitional spaces: Medium-width profiles with subtle detailing in warm white/cream, espresso/dark brown, or timeless wood tones often feel most at home.

When this category is NOT the best fit (and what to consider instead)

If your main goal is something other than coordinated wall decor—such as a deep display for dimensional objects, or a specialty presentation—this curated interior-styling selection may not be the right starting point.

• Need extra depth for memorabilia or dimensional items? Consider a shadow-box style solution instead of a standard wall frame.
• Want a very specific, exact look or unusual sizing? Start with custom picture frames to match your design plan more precisely.
• Not sure which style direction suits your artwork? Use the frame style selection guide to narrow profile, finish, and overall feel.

Practical considerations for real homes

• High-traffic areas (hallways, kids’ rooms): Prioritize durability and finishes that won’t show scuffs as easily; plan for easy artwork swaps if you refresh seasonally.
• Staging and listings: Keep finishes consistent and proportions balanced to photograph cleanly and avoid visual clutter.
• Home offices: For certificates, diplomas, and awards, choose a frame profile and finish that matches the room’s furniture tones for a cohesive, professional look.