In many interior design circles, the gallery wall is now considered seriously overdone (you can blame those of us who were housebound during the pandemic and glued to Tik Tok). If you’re looking for a fresh take on (still hot) maximalism, a plate wall offers an elegant, yet vibrant, option.
Personally, I have always decorated using plates, trays, and various porcelain bits and bobs. It started with my first apartment and was really a decision based on two things. First, I couldn’t afford decent art. Second, I had inherited a treasure trove of pretty floral porcelain and fine china. My solution was to simply purchase inexpensive plate hangers and – voila! – instant cottage style on a shoestring budget. (Bonus: Because I used many vintage and antique plates from various family members, my wall has a lovely, personal feel with loads of great memories.)
Many years later, I finally have some decent art in my collection. But I still adore how a plate wall creates a bold focal point, and allows me to show off many of my favorite china patterns, as well as can’t-leave-it-behind orphan pieces that I’ve picked up thrift shopping.
Best Rooms for a Plate Wall
Plates walls can enliven a living room, dining room, or kitchen. But, they are also often a great solution for a bare hallway, staircase, or hard to decorate space such as over the TV or on a narrow wall.
In addition, plates can enhance a feature that’s already there – a peaked roofline, an existing mirror, or piece of furniture. For example, in the article “40 Ways to Decorate With Plates on the Wall for a Charming, Unique Look” at The Spruce, author Pauline Lacsamana suggests, “If you’re searching for your next bedroom wall decor project, consider decorating with plates. It’s a change of pace from the classic kitchen plate wall but can look just as good. Try creating an arch with plates along your headboard to create more visual interest by your bed.”
Pay Attention to Pattern and Layout
There are two ways to hang a plate wall. First a rigid grid format can be dramatic, especially if there are an abundance of plates all in a similar size, shape, and color scheme. Second, you can opt for a more organic, eclectic look, which can absorb multiple colorways, sizes, and shapes.
For me, the organic look is preferred, not only because I love the loose feel of it, but also because I can keep adding pieces as I find them! A new platter here, a gravy boat underplate there… it all works.
Before you grab the hammer and start hanging, gather your collection and do a rough pattern on the floor. Does it feel cohesive? Is there a color theme? Too many or too few of one size?
Also, pay attention to the space between each piece. Too close together will look crowded. Too far apart will not look intentional.
Kate McGregor of House Beautiful explains in the article “How to Style a Plate Wall Like a Designer.: She says, “give them room to breathe. Similarly to how to space out a gallery wall, it’s important to leave space between the plates. “Make the layout feel eclectic,” she says. “For a mismatched set, a loose hanging pattern versus a grid can make all the difference. Highlight the differences between the pieces.”
Add a Pop of Color, or Go Monochromatic
With the incredible abundance of beautiful porcelain and china patterns available, creating a plate wall can take a bit of trial and error. Which to include? Which to edit?
For a unified look, choosing a color scheme (and sticking to it) is a good first step. For my most recent plate wall, I chose entirely blue and white pieces. To avoid an overly matchy-matchy feel, I selected over a dozen patterns. While you don’t have to stick to such a narrow color palette, keeping complementary shades (or if you’re bold, contrasting colors on the color wheel) will be visually pleasing.
Alternately, you can choose an entirely monochromatic look. Simple white is one of my personal top picks. And against a colorful painted wall, this can be stunning.
Think Beyond China
While a plate wall is usually designed using … well, plates, you can also achieve the same effect with the warm patina of silver. Silver trays, platters, and plates abound at thrift shops. Often beautifully engraved, with ornate handles and details, a small collection makes a big impact.
Or, try hand thrown pottery in muted hues for a warm, inviting feel.
Similarly, Southern Living’s Hallie Milstein encourages out-of-the-box thinking when it comes to what qualifies as a plate, “Dinner plates aren’t the only dishes that deserve a spot on your wall. Oyster plates also make for lovely decor, as do other creative dishes like deviled egg plates. These more specific platters come in intriguing shapes to suit specific foods rather than even circles, which adds even more appeal when they’re used as decor.”
When using items other than standard dinner, luncheon, or dessert plates, be careful to factor in depth. Flatter plates are much easier to hang securely than deeper ones.
Whatever you choose, a plate wall is a personal expression of your style. So grab that hammer and create something beautiful!
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Susan Said… WHAT?! is your guide to a life filled with style and was named one of the Top 50 Beauty Blogs in the World by RebateZone. You’ll find everything from fashion, jewelry, beauty and accessories, to gorgeous gardens and stunning interiors and DIY projects, plus the latest ideas events of all kinds. Susan Conforte McNeill is an author, entrepreneur, and co-founder of the literacy organization Success Won’t Wait!
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