Unconventional display ideas for cherished photos - Don Johnson's eccentric gallery setup offers inspiration

Modern Twist: The Deconstructed Gallery Wall

Let's be honest, when it comes to gallery walls, I've been uninspired by the traditional style. As a fashion editor, I've seen a myriad of gallery walls this year, and while I appreciate the artwork, I haven't felt compelled to recreate the look in my personal space. That is, until I stumbled upon Don Johnson's unique spin.

Instead of adhering strictly to the typical gallery wall ideas, the Miami Vice actor has given a discreet refresh, deconstructing some frames in a way that's far from ordinary. Some hang on the wall as usual, while others balance precariously on the floor, creating a laid-back, unfinished aesthetic that caught my eye.

This unconventional yet effortless approach to gallery walls struck me on Don's wife's Instagram feed. It's a playful, imperfect style that provides an interesting platform to showcase my favorite photos and keepsakes – and it's surprisingly simple to recreate. All you need is some floor and wall space, a mix of various-sized frames, and a generous dash of creativity.

Shopping my new gallery wall Edit

Sleek Metal Profile FrameWith a slim metal frame, this is perfect for creating a modern and minimalist gallery wall. The frames come in various sizes, making it easy to cater to any space.

Coquille MirrorAdd a dash of playfulness to your gallery wall with the Coquille Mirror, complete with its curved edges. This unique mirror is sure to make a statement.

Striped Elegance FrameAchieve a sophisticated look with this stylish striped frame, ideal for complementing simpler frames within your gallery wall.

I've decided to embrace Don's look on my floor, but you can easily create a similar ambiance by placing some frames on your cabinet. Lisa Hensby, founder of Lisa Hensby Design & Build Studio, shares her expertise on the matter.

'A deconstructed gallery wall – where some frames sit casually on the floor or perch on a console or cabinet – exudes a relaxed, curated vibe that's unpretentious,' says Lisa. 'It's the polar opposite of overly coordinated and measured picture hanging, offering a sense of effortlessness, personality, and narrative.'

'Follow a collected-over-time approach rather than a hung-to-perfection one. It's all about creating a space that feels lived-in, loved, and full of stories.'

When experimenting with this alternative to the traditional gallery wall, Lisa suggests layering heights and formats for added depth and visual interest. 'Place a large piece directly on the floor, allowing it to lean against the wall for that laid-back look, and layer in smaller artworks just in front or to one side,' she explains. 'The staggered arrangement draws the eye in and around the display, creating a lively atmosphere.'

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Renting, as I am, this alternative method of showcasing my favorite prints in my living room has proven to be a unique and conversation-starting endeavor. As Lisa puts it, 'the beauty of this style lies in its low-commitment, making it practical for renters or anyone who enjoys a change of scenery.'

'It adds instant personality to a space, providing a fun, ever-evolving display that showcases your taste, travels, and the things that bring a smile to your face.'

Creating a Deconstructed Gallery Wall on a Cabinet

To achieve this deconstructed gallery wall effect on a cabinet, you'll need:

A cabinet with a flat surface or recessed backsplash area
Framed art, photos, prints, and small decorative items
Command strips, adhesive hooks, or removable putty (for objects that can't stand on their own)
Floating shelves or picture ledges (optional, for layering)
Scissors, rulers, measuring tape, and layout-planning tools

Once you gather the necessary materials, use the following step-by-step process inspired by contemporary DIY and gallery wall practices:

Plan the Layout: Experiment with different compositions on the floor before committing to any specific arrangement.
Layer and Elevate: Create depth by using floating shelves or ledges, hanging some pieces on the cabinet, and placing others on its surface.
Add Dimension with Objects: Break the flatness by including plates, vases, plants, or other collectibles amongst the framed pieces.
Stagger and Overlap: Avoid aligning everything perfectly – allow frames and objects to overlap, creating a spontaneous, collected-over-time impression.
Secure and Adjust: Ensure items remain secure by using adhesives and assessing the balance periodically.
Personalize: Add items that have personal significance to reinforce the curated look.

By following these steps, you can replicate Don Johnson's and Lisa Hensby's unique and stylish approach to gallery walls on your cabinet[1][2][3].

This deconstructed gallery wall method, as showcased by Don Johnson and Lisa Hensby, offers a relaxed and unpretentious appeal that seamlessly blends interior-design elements with lifestyle choices. It allows for the integration of fashion-and-beauty touches, such as incorporating frames alongside fashion accessories or personal photographs, creating a home-and-garden space that's both visually stunning and emotionally resonant.

For those who prefer a more personalized, yet low-commitment approach to decor, this style offers the perfect solution – a statement-making, ever-evolving display that reflects individual tastes and experiences, thereby elevating the fashion-forward lifestyle within any living space.

Unconventional display ideas for cherished photos - Don Johnson's eccentric gallery setup offers inspiration