What are your thoughts on gallery walls?  Personally, I’ve never been a huge fan.  They have always seemed so busy to me, almost like a “filler.”  I’ve always preferred a larger piece (like this) that means something to me rather than a ton of little prints.

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But there’s a couple of problems with the “single large piece” approach… 1. With 14 foot ceilings, it’s got to be a big ass piece of art to not look miniscule on the wall.  2. Um…art is expensive.

So the more I think about it, the more I start to lean towards the gallery idea.  I’ll admit it is a great way to fill a space without spending a lot of money.  And there are still plenty of beautiful and meaningful smaller pieces out there.  (For the record, I’m not a huge fan of family photo gallery walls…just not my style.)  Eventually, I’d like to migrate back towards the larger statement pieces, but I think a gallery wall would be a good stepping stone.  And let’s face it: we can’t afford the big art and we’re not going to just have bare walls for the next 10 years!  So on that note, here are a few posts of ideas and inspiration that I like:

Jen from Made By Girl had a great post a couple weeks ago with her tips for creating an attractive gallery wall.  I, of course, love her use of gold, black, and white in her own office.

Emily Henderson did a post a few months back about creating a focal wall, in which the gallery idea was one of the options.   Bonus: this one even includes a video!

After reading this post by Sam from The Peak of Tres Chic, I realized that all gallery walls do not have to be the same.  There are tons of options for making them look more interesting and dynamic.

I also found this useful arrangement chart for when I’m just at a total loss on where to start.  (Yes, I know it’s in a foreign language, but you get the idea.)

Jury’s still out on whether or not I’ll try to incorporate one of these into the house.  Luckily there’s still plenty of time to decide!

So what do you think?  Yay or nay?

Today marks the start of New York Fashion Week!  Sponsored by Mercedes-Benz, the 8-day event will debut the Spring 2014 collections from all the top designers.  So, in that spirit, I thought I would take a few of the expected trends and apply them to decorating the home.

1.  Military– It doesn’t look like this trend is going away any time soon.  Made up mainly of greens, tans, and browns, this style is often very structured with details like ball buttons and gold accents.

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This look can also be carried over to the home with the use of greens and other neutrals.

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2.  Safari– Animal print is and always will be in style.  These prints are expected to flood the runway this week.

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At home, animal prints can be used almost anywhere.  You can keep it simple and subdued, or go super bold.  I’m dying for an antelope print rug in the office!  And wouldn’t some safari animals like giraffes and hippos be adorable painted like my gold dollar store dinos?

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3.  Crisp whites– Nothing says Spring like bright white.  You can do white on white, or pair is with a bold color or print.  Lots of options!

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At home, there are few things I love more than an all-white kitchen.  But this trend can really work anywhere in the house.

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4.  Bold floral prints– Forget the tiny flowers…we want the big stuff!

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This trend is easy to work into bedding and artwork.  If you are brave enough, it can also work on furniture and wallpaper.  Just be sure you really love it!!

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For the latest on NYFW, visit the official website.