Clever New Uses for the Picture Frame
Frame Beach Stones, Jewelry, Wallpaper, More Frames — or Nothing at All
I'm a freelance writer and design enthusiast who believes the best design is collected, not decorated, and that homes should always be as comfortable and functional as they are chic. In addition to writing for Houzz, I work as the Head Copywriter for Layla Grayce and Zinc Door.
I'm a freelance writer and design enthusiast who believes the best design... More »
Artwork looks great framed, this we know, but it’s time to reconsider the typical use of the picture frame. These days frames can be utilized in a variety of interesting fashions, lending a unique charm to your walls and spaces. Whether it’s framing unusual objects, seeking out unusual frames or simply leaving them empty, the world of frame options is at your fingertips. If you have frames sitting around with nothing to put in them (or so you think), check out the following photos. It’s possible you’ll find an unexpected reason to dust off those frames.
by decordemon
»
Apply the adage “less is more” to frames. This grouping is an eclectic and chic solution for wall decoration done inexpensively.
Wondering where to display the rocks your family collected on vacation? Hang some thick, natural wood frames and rest the rocks inside. (Museum wax can help hold them in place.) It turns them into instant artwork and places them an unexpected spot.
by Tamar Schechner
»
Gallery walls aren’t anything new, but sneaking in piece of framed mesh adds unique flair to this arrangement. Framing mesh not only works functionally as a place to hang jewelry, but the colorful jewelry also adds charm to the display.
Have an oversized bathroom mirror that extends wall to wall? Give it some visual interest by framing sections. This will also create separate areas for the sink and vanity.
| |
| No one would expect to find this vase inside a picture frame, and it creates a visual display all your own. |
by French Larkspur
»
Simply because something is already framed doesn’t mean it can’t be re-framed. Lean an empty frame against the wall and complete the vignette with a smaller framed mirror and personal objects for a feminine and sweet look.
|
by H&H Design
»
|
| Add interest to a typically framed photograph with another frame via color-block. On the white wall, this piece would have been lost; against the orange, it pops. This is also inexpensive! |
Create a distinction around your fireplace surround by framing it. This natural wood frame brings a welcomed sense of nature to the look.
| |
| Find great antique frames, place mirrors inside and hang them behind your bedside lamps. Not only is it a unique and unusual spot to place framed mirrors, but they will create a great reflective glow at night. |
by French Larkspur
»
Get creative with both the frames and the contents. Distressed window panes can hold anything from typical artwork to pages of your favorite book, attached with ribbon.
Like the idea of wallpaper but not willing to commit to an entire wall? Framed wallpaper panels are a great solution. Paint the frames the same color as the wall to give the panels the effect of molding.
| |
| Frame your frames! Gallery walls are great ways to showcase a variety of pieces; if you really want them to pop, frame the gathering and paint the background a complementary color. |
by French Larkspur
»
Ground a wall with empty frames, and then fill the remainder with something of personal meaning.
| |
| Chalkboards are fun, functional and great for the kids. Chic-ify it with a frame; this helps it look less like it belongs in the playroom and more like a stylish wall accessory.
Next: Browse photos of picture walls |
Comments
bubbletoes I have a weakness for beautiful frames..thanks for these ideas shawn, I have some frames I plan on hanging now.
2 years ago · Like
Pascale I love these ideas! I have an addiction to beautiful frames, and I've been able to feed my habit over the years when I discovered most frame shops have an "oops" rack tucked into a corner somewhere. Often I find gorgeous custom frames, that were rejected because they were the wrong size or the customer didn't like the frame, for only $10 or $15 dollars. (And these are large frames, not just little 8"x10"s.) Simply can't resist a bargain like that!
2 years ago · Like
Melanie S. luv this blog. I think I added almost every photo to my ideabooks!!!
2 years ago · Like
lindseyakin When we pulled off some termite-damaged wallboard, we found original 1915 wallpaper on the actual outside wall boards of the house! While for insulation we had to re-board the wall, we did cut out one section to have a 'window-to-the-past', where we have used a picture frame, industrial velcroed to the new wall, to frame the original wallpaper. People go wild for it, and we love it!
2 years ago · Like
sibellah wow, what an eye-opener - and the beautiful looks can all be achieved on a budget! fantastic, thank you for putting this together.
2 years ago · Like
iheartorganizing We created a jewelry display from a frame/matting and some radiator grates! 
2 years ago · Like
lynne whiteside omg, I just remembered I have a gold-leaf frame in storage (back of the pantry) I pulling it out and having some fun...
2 years ago · Like
Shawn Gauthier So glad you guys found this post useful!! It really is crazy how many things you can pull out of storage (or the "junk" box) and watch it transform into something chic. Who ever said frames should only be for artwork, right!!!?!? :)
2 years ago · Like
Ideabook updated on May 10, 2011.
What are you working on?
News From Our Partners
Latest Ideabooks
People found the photos in this ideabook after searching for:
View over a million photos:
basements · bedrooms · dining rooms · entries · family rooms · garage and sheds · halls · home offices · landscapes · laundry rooms · powder rooms · wine cellars and more.
