The Plate Wall Is Back & Here’s How to Make It Totally Modern

Move over gallery walls 2025’s most unexpected (and surprisingly chic) decor comeback is the plate wall. Yup, the one your grandma had… but with a modern twist. Think abstract ceramics, bold colors, and artful layouts that tell a story.

Not sure what your style story looks like? Take our 60 seconds Design Style Quiz to discover your decor vibe before you start hanging plates and check out our curated wall art and decor collections to bring your plate wall vision to life.

Why Plate Walls Are Trending Again

Plate walls are having a renaissance not the overly matchy ones of the past, but eclectic, personality-packed displays that feel equal parts homey and high design. From hand-thrown pottery to vintage flea market finds, people are using plates like art, turning walls into expressive, layered moments.

They’re perfect for:

• Adding charm to blank dining room walls

• Creating a warm welcome in entryways

• Elevating a boring corner of the living room

The best part? They’re super flexible. You can go minimalist with three plates in neutral tones, or full maximalist with a mosaic of bold, colorful designs.

 

How to Style a Modern Plate Wall (Without Looking Dated)

Let’s break down how to make this look feel totally 2025:

1. Mix Modern + Handmade:
Choose a few handmade ceramic plates and mix them with sleek white or matte black options for contrast. Spacejoy’s sculptural wall plates are a great place to start if you want a curated modern-meets-eclectic vibe.

2. Play With Layouts:
Try asymmetrical designs or spiral formations for visual movement. There’s no rulebook—treat it like a 3D gallery wall.

3. Go Tonal or Bold:
For a calming effect, stick to one color palette (think earthy neutrals or soft coastal tones). Or go playful with mismatched color and pattern for a more boho or eclectic look. Pro tip: Use your plate wall to echo your overall room style.

4. Add Unexpected Elements:
Layer in small mirrors, wall planters, or art prints between plates for an extra-dimensional look. Explore our wall art collection to find accent pieces that mix beautifully.

5. Don’t Skip the Kitchen or Bedroom:
While dining rooms are classic for plate walls, try one above your kitchen bar, your breakfast nook, or even behind the headboard in your bedroom for a whimsical surprise.

 

Where to Find the Perfect Plates (and What Else to Pair Them With)

Yes, you can totally score great plates at vintage shops or your favorite pottery studio—but don’t stop there. Complement your plate wall with:

• A cozy textured rug to ground the room

• Sculptural lighting to highlight your wall art

• Layered furniture like a curved bench or artisan console

• Statement chairs that echo the color or shape of your plates

FAQ: Plate Wall Edition

Q: How do I hang plates on the wall safely?
A: Use plate hangers, disc adhesives, or even picture ledges if you want a flexible setup. Command strips can work too but always check weight capacity.

Q: Do all the plates need to match?
A: Absolutely not! Mixing shapes, sizes, and designs is what makes the look modern and layered. Stick to a loose theme or color palette for cohesion.

Q: Is this look only for traditional or vintage styles?
A: Not at all. A plate wall can fit into any style. Scandinavian minimalists can use matte white ceramics, while boho lovers might go for globally inspired patterns.

Q: What if I rent and can’t make holes in the wall?
A: Try removable adhesive hooks, narrow ledges, or even leaning your plates on a picture rail. You can still get the look without commitment.