Gone are the days when a hammer and some nails were the only way to put pictures on walls.
For today’s interiors, the trend is toward leaning your art against the wall, so whether it is photographs, mirrors or framed artworks, the ‘un-hung’ look is becoming increasingly popular.
Un-hung art can look incredibly sophisticated but like most interior design touches, there is a bit of an ‘art’ behind it.
Thankfully, leading design house Neptune has some tips on how to adopt the new trend so it doesn’t look as if you simply haven’t gotten around to hanging your pictures up yet.
Firstly, it is important to get the balance right. If you only lean one or two pieces of art across your home, it could look more like an accident than a conscious choice. So, commit to the look and think about how you might repeat it in several rooms.
Don’t go overboard though, as it might look a bit obvious and do mix it up with some pieces that are mounted on the wall.
One of the best things about leaning your artworks is that you can put one frame in front of another, to create a layered effect. This is just not possible when things are wall hung, but don’t go overboard and overlap everything.
An arrangement in which one or two pieces are overlapped feels more relaxed, creative and indeed more ‘arty.’
Also think about using picture rails. Neptune’s Buckland picture ledge is ideal, with a grooved-out channel that makes it easy for picture frames to sit-in, tip back and rest against the wall behind them.
As there are no nails involved, you can move frames about, swap positions and curate your collection as often as you please.
The lean-back, un-hung look is not just about displaying art - wall clocks, photographs and mirrors can all join in.
Console tables make another good display option, you can add a few ornaments or accessories too.
This look works best when there is a touch of eclecticism to it, so mix things up,and think of it as a whole new way to approach your mantel piece.
