The New Framing Ideas To Consider

One of the coolest looks right now is the juxtaposition of contemporary artwork in antique gilt or vintage wooden frames. It creates tension, character and a collected-over-time feel.

Large, generously proportioned mounts are having a moment, particularly around smaller artworks. The extra negative space gives a piece room to breathe, and instantly makes it feel more gallery-like and valuable.

Popular for canvases, floating frames create a small gap between the artwork and frame, giving the piece a lighter, more architectural appearance. They work particularly well with abstract and contemporary art.

Instead of defaulting to black or white, framers are seeing growing demand for coloured timber frames that pick up subtle tones within the artwork – olive greens, oxbloods, tobacco browns and soft blues.

Collectors are increasingly embracing raw, unframed canvases, particularly for contemporary paintings. The relaxed approach feels artistic and slightly European, especially when layered on shelves or leaning against walls.

Perfectly symmetrical gallery walls are giving way to more eclectic arrangements. Think mixed frame styles, different scales and artworks layered alongside photographs, ceramics and objects.

Collectors are increasingly framing textiles, sketches, exhibition posters, vintage maps, handwritten notes and even pages from books. The focus is less on investment pieces and more on creating a personal, meaningful collection.

Striped, coloured and fabric-covered mounts are becoming increasingly popular among designers looking to give artworks a more bespoke feel. Whether paired with vintage paintings, contemporary prints or works on paper, a statement mount can instantly add personality, colour and a sense of playfulness.

A technique borrowed from galleries, double framing combines a slim inner frame with a larger outer frame, creating depth and making smaller works feel more substantial.

Rather than using the same frame throughout a home, designers are mixing black lacquer, oak, walnut, silver and gilt finishes within a single scheme. The result feels more organic and less curated.

Minimal metal frames and slim timber profiles continue to dominate. Black, natural oak and dark walnut remain favourites, allowing the artwork to take centrestage rather than competing with it.