Curating with Purpose: Tips for Designing a Gallery Wall That Breathes

Miami’s skyline is growing denser by the day, with Brickell’s glass towers reaching ever higher. But inside our homes, there’s an opportunity to pause, reflect, and bring intention to our surroundings—especially through art. At Brickell Interiors, we believe that a thoughtfully curated gallery wall isn't just decorative—it’s soulful. It tells your story, anchors your space, and brings balance amid the buzz of urban life. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just beginning to explore Miami’s vibrant art scene, these curated tips will help you design a gallery wall that breathes, flows, and lives with you.

1. Start With Emotion, Not Just Aesthetic

Before sourcing pieces, ask yourself: What do I want to feel when I look at this wall? Energized? Calm? Nostalgic? This emotional compass guides your curation. In Miami, where art is as dynamic as our culture, you’ll find a rich mix of styles—from the bold Afro-Caribbean palettes at Pan American Art Projects to the poetic minimalism at Dot Fiftyone Gallery in the Wynwood Arts District.

2. Mix Mediums for a Sensory Experience

A gallery wall doesn’t have to be a grid of framed prints. Combine photography, sculpture, textiles, and even neon or mirrored pieces for a tactile and layered feel. Consider adding works from local artists like Typoe or Emmett Moore, whose mixed-media approaches add depth and reflect Miami’s experimental energy. We also love incorporating handcrafted elements sourced from Locust Projects—a nonprofit space supporting contemporary Miami-based artists.

3. Balance Breathing Room with Visual Impact

The "wall that breathes" concept means leaving intentional negative space between pieces. This pause lets each artwork speak. In Miami’s modern condos—often with limited wall real estate—this strategy creates visual lightness. A good rule of thumb: spacing between works should be 2 to 6 inches, depending on scale.

4. Anchor with One Statement Piece

Every gallery wall benefits from a focal point. Choose one large-scale or emotionally powerful piece to ground the collection. A moody abstract from David Castillo Gallery or a large black-and-white photograph of old Miami architecture from The Margulies Collection can create a dramatic and personal anchor.

5. Incorporate Biophilic Elements

Given Miami’s overdevelopment and increasingly vertical lifestyle, biophilic design has never been more essential. Blend art with organic forms—add a framed pressed palm leaf, a sculptural wooden wall piece, or even trailing greenery using mounted planters. At Brickell Interiors, we often source natural textures and artful botanicals to soften high-rise interiors and reconnect with nature.

6. Tell Your Story

Your gallery wall should reflect your journey. Mix contemporary art with family heirlooms, travel photography, or even concert posters from a night out at the Arsht Center. The goal isn’t perfection, its authenticity. For those new to collecting, Art Miami (held during Miami Art Week) is a perfect starting point to discover emerging and mid-career artists while supporting the local creative community.

7. Use the Right Tools (and Help)

Proper hanging hardware is a must—especially with concrete walls. Don’t shy away from professional help for layout planning and installation. At Brickell Interiors, we offer bespoke gallery wall design as part of our full-service interior design packages across Miami, from Pinecrest to Surfside.

A gallery wall is more than decoration—it’s a living expression of your identity and values. In a city as layered as Miami, let your walls mirror that richness. Curate with purpose. Make room for breath. And if you’re feeling overwhelmed, we’re here to help bring your vision to life with elegance, warmth, and personality.

Looking for help designing your gallery wall in Miami?   Book a consultation with Brickell Interiors and let us create a space that tells your story—beautifully.

 Serving Brickell, Coral Gables, Miami Beach, and beyond.