How to fill a huge blank wall on a tiny budget
When it comes to decorating, blank walls can feel like both an opportunity and a challenge—especially if your budget isn’t quite ready for your dream gallery wall. But don’t worry, you don’t need to wait for the perfect moment (or the perfect bank balance) to create a space that feels beautiful and personal.
Recently, I received a question from Olivia, who emailed me with this very dilemma:
“I have a tiny budget for art (right now) but a huge blank space in my dining room. I can’t afford to do my dream gallery wall, but I’m desperate for something! Any ideas?”
Let’s talk about creative, budget-friendly ways to fill that empty space without compromising on style or personality.
Photo's courtesy of: (Left) Colombe & (right) Alicia White & Sarah Corbett-Winder
Option 1: Wallpaper Paneling for Instant Impact
If you’re looking for something bold and budget-friendly, consider wallpaper paneling.
Pick Your Wallpaper: Look for discounted or end-of-roll wallpaper that fits your style. Whether it’s a bold mural or a subtle textured design, you can find plenty of options on a budget.
DIY Panels: Use timber from your local hardware store to frame out sections of the wallpaper on the wall for that high-impact, gallery vibe. Add a touch of paint to the timber in the same colour of wall (or contrast!) for an extra layer of polish.
Go Big or Stay Flexible: Depending on your wallpaper’s pattern, you can create one oversized focal panel or several smaller ones to fill the space.
Not only does this option add some super cool personality to your space, but it’s also renter-friendly (think peel & stick) and easy to update down the line.
Option 2: Start Small and Let It Grow
If your heart is set on collecting original art, there’s no rush to do it all at once. A gallery wall doesn’t have to happen overnight. As much as I know you ‘just want it done’, allow your wall to naturally evolve with your budget and taste over time.
Begin with Small Treasures: Invest in affordable, smaller pieces from emerging artists or vintage prints with unique frames.
Think Outside the Frame: Hang textured items like woven baskets, cool plates, or even a straw hat amongst your collection for a personal, eclectic vibe.
Enjoy the Process: Let your collection grow naturally over time. Keep an eye out online and let new places you visit surprise you with their local artist’s creations. Each piece you choose will tell a story and beautifully reflect where you are in your design and/or life journey.
The Bottom Line: Creativity Over Perfection
Filling a blank wall on a budget is all about finding joy in the process and embracing your unique style. Whether you go bold with wallpaper or curate your gallery over time, the most important step is just to start.
Remember, decorating is about making your space feel like you. So just make a start and trust the process!
This gallery wall brings a relaxed vibe to the multi-use entrance of a recent client’s home. We gathered random pieces from around the house—things that might have been overlooked on their own—and grouped them together to create something fun! It’s colorful, collected, and full of personality, setting such a warm and welcoming tone for this charming country home!
👉 Want a little extra help identifying your unique style? It all starts with a good intentional decluttering. Get my free checklist here to help you identify which items you love, and which you’re ready to - finally - get rid of!