Picture Rails: How to Create an Art Gallery at Home

Picture rails, the tracks fixed to the wall that let you suspend artwork, are the ideal way to create a proper art gallery in your own home. Flexible and elegant, they transform the whole business of hanging pictures.

The Benefits of Picture Rails

• No holes in your walls: a single track is all it takes
• Complete flexibility: move your frames around whenever you like
• A professional look: just like in a museum
• Heavy loads: they carry several kilos
• Elegant design: it blends into your decor

Types of Picture Rail

Ceiling-Mounted Rail

Fixed to the ceiling, it gives you great freedom of placement. Ideal for a continuous gallery wall.

Wall-Mounted Rail

Fixed at the top of the wall, just below where it meets the ceiling. The most common and the most discreet option.

Decorative Rail

Built into a cornice or a moulding. The best-looking option for classic interiors.

The Hanging System

The Components

• The rail: fixed to the wall or ceiling
• The droppers: cables or rigid metal rods
• The hooks: adjustable for height
• The fixings: matched to your frames

Fitting the Rail

Step 1: Mark Out the Line

Use a spirit level to mark out a perfectly horizontal line.

Step 2: Drill and Plug

Drill every 30-40 cm. Use wall plugs suited to the substrate.

Step 3: Fix the Rail

Screw the rail firmly in place, checking as you go that it stays level.

Step 4: Fit the Droppers

Clip the droppers into the rail and adjust the hooks.

Composition Tips

Alignment

Line up the centre of each picture along an imaginary horizontal line at eye level (around 1.50 m).

Spacing

Leave 5-10 cm between frames for an airy composition.

Balance

Mix large and small formats. Start with the largest piece in the centre.

Display Ideas

• Build a family photo wall that grows over time
• Show an art collection that changes with the seasons
• Mix frames, mirrors and decorative objects
• Play with different frame sizes and styles