How to choose the right frame for the room
A good frame should suit the work first, then the room. Start with the size of the piece, the colours already in the space and how close people will stand when they view it. In a compact apartment in Johannesburg, a slimmer frame often feels cleaner. In a large foyer or gallery wall, a wider profile can carry more presence without overpowering the artwork.
Think about the finish too. Natural timber works well with warm interiors, while painted or dark finishes suit more formal rooms. If you are unsure, we help compare options side by side so you can see what sits best with the image, the wall colour and the light in the room.
What artists and photographers ask about most
Many customers want to know how to protect prints, paintings and photographs without losing the look of the piece. The answer usually depends on paper type, surface texture and whether the work will hang in strong light. Coastal humidity in Durban and Cape Town can also affect materials over time, so the right mounting and glazing choice matters.
- Use mount board to give breathing room around smaller works.
- Choose glass or acrylic based on weight, glare and handling needs.
- Keep signed editions and originals off direct sun where possible.
- For delicate work, ask about acid free materials and spacers.
Photographers often prefer a clean white mount and a frame that does not compete with the image. For mixed media or textured work, a deeper frame can help protect the surface and keep the piece stable.
Framing ideas for homes, studios and gifts
Framing is not only for galleries. Family photographs, certificates, children’s artwork and travel prints can all be presented neatly with the right finish. A well chosen frame makes a gift feel considered, especially when the work has been mounted properly and trimmed square.
For home walls, simple arrangements usually work best. Try repeating one frame colour across a group, or mixing sizes within the same finish. If you are framing for a studio or office, consistency helps the space feel orderly and professional. A gallery wall can still be personal, but it should have a clear plan before holes are drilled and hangers placed.
- Choose one anchor piece and build around it.
- Leave equal spacing between frames for a balanced look.
- Measure wall height before finalising the layout.
- Consider where sunlight moves through the room during the day.
When a frame needs repair or replacement
Frames do not last forever. Corners can loosen, glass can crack and hanging points may wear out with time. If a frame has been damaged by moving, heat or moisture, it is often worth repairing before replacing the whole piece. In some cases the artwork only needs reframing with fresh backing, better mount cutting or new glazing.
We see this often with pieces that have moved between homes in Midrand, Sandton and Pretoria. Reframing can give the work a better fit and also fix old materials that have yellowed or bowed. If the item has sentimental or financial value, do not leave it stored in a cupboard too long while waiting for a decision.
Gallery hanging and larger wall displays
For galleries, offices and public walls, the hanging method is just as important as the frame itself. The work must sit level, hold securely and allow for easy maintenance. Larger pieces also need proper weight support, especially if they are being displayed in busy areas or spaces with frequent cleaning.
Before any installation, check the wall surface and the fixings required. Brick, plasterboard and concrete all need different hardware. In commercial spaces, the arrangement should also work with sightlines, lighting and municipal rules where applicable, particularly if the work is being shown in a public venue. A tidy hanging plan saves time later and keeps the display looking controlled.
Browse the journal and choose what suits your project
This journal covers a wide range of topics, from ready-made frame advice to custom framing methods, canvas stretching, mirror framing and artwork installation. Some articles are short and practical, while others help you compare materials and finishes before you bring in your piece.
Use the listings to find the subject that matches your project best. If you are framing one family photo, a set of prints or a full gallery wall, the right article can help you make a better choice before you start. If you need guidance, our Parkhurst studio works with clients across Johannesburg, Pretoria, Cape Town, Durban and Midrand.