Looking Ahead: Framing Trends for 2026

From family photographs and certificates to original artworks and memorabilia, framing turns moments into displays that last. As Australia’s trusted custom framing specialists, we’ve seen how picture frames shape interiors, protect what matters, and express personality.

In this article, we’ll review what defined 2025 and then forecast the framing trends for 2026, drawing on reputable framing and gallery resources and aligning with what we’re seeing in‑store every day.

A Look Back: Framing in 2025

Sustainability became non‑negotiable. Customers increasingly asked for Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified timbers, recycled materials, and durable, repairable frames. Vintage and upcycled mouldings, plus the option to leave certain artworks unframed for a raw look, moved from niche to mainstream - choices echoed across galleries and specialist framers internationally.

Minimalism matured into “quiet luxury.” Slim natural wood (walnut, maple, light oak) and matte wooden frames provided a calm backdrop for contemporary art, photography, and certificates. The emphasis was on clean lines, premium materials, and precise craftsmanship rather than showy ornamentation.

Personalisation surged. Bespoke mat boards, tailored glazing (from premium clear to UV‑blocking and museum grade), and custom colour accents helped connect artworks to their rooms. Online inspiration, especially around gallery walls, drove requests for curated, story‑rich arrangements that evolve over time.

Technology complemented the craft. In‑store workshops, like ours, continued to outclass off‑site models with speed, control, and quality, supporting same day framing for suitable jobs and accelerating turnaround for tailored ready‑made frames. Customers appreciated transparent timelines and expert advice delivered face‑to‑face.

Lessons from 2025

Here are three key takeaways from our customers 2025 framing choices:

Consumers value speed + quality: When feasible, same day picture framing wins, especially for standard sizes, certificates, and photography, provided craftsmanship and protective materials aren’t compromised.

Texture and depth matter: Requests grew for floating frames and shadow box frames that add dimension without overwhelming the artwork - ideal for canvas, mixed media, jerseys, medals, and 3D mementos.
Balanced boldness. While neutral frames remained popular, more clients experimented with bold contrasts (e.g. matte black against romantic or abstract pieces) and metallic accents for a refined focal point.

Framing Trends to Watch in 2026

1) Brushed Gold & Warm Metallics (Champagne, Brass)

Expect a confident return of gold picture frames, but updated: brushed, muted, or champagne finishes that add warmth without baroque heaviness. These frames pair beautifully with curved furniture, biophilic interiors (connecting people with nature in built-up environments), and layered colour palettes, delivering a luxe yet modern feel across contemporary and transitional spaces.

Tip: For a certificate, photo, or canvas you want to enhance, a brushed gold frame with a neutral mat and premium glass is a timeless, professional choice.

2) Large Statement Frames as Architectural Features

Thin profiles dominated the early 2020s, but oversized frames, 5–9 cm wide frames, sculpted details, deep shadow boxes are back as architectural anchors. They excel for single hero pieces or as punctuation on gallery walls. Hospitality and workplaces are adopting this look for lobby and corridor impact, and homeowners are following suit for living and dining spaces.

Tip: When scale increases, so does the need for structural integrity and correct hanging systems. We recommend professional design and installation to keep big frames safe and perfectly aligned.

3) Floating Frames & Depth‑Enhancing Techniques

Floating frames (also called floater frames for canvas) and clean shadow box framing remain top choices to create breathing space around the artwork. For 3D objects or textured pieces, these formats add depth while keeping lines refined. Expert spacing, neutral backing, and museum‑grade glazing complete the premium look.

Tip: For mixed media or memorabilia, we’ll advise UV protection, acid‑free mounts, and reversible fixings to preserve value for irreplaceable items.

4) Eco‑Conscious, “Sustainable Luxury” Framing

2026 accelerates environmentally sustainable picture frames: FSC woods, recycled materials, low‑VOC finishes, and vintage re‑use. Many customers also choose to display some works unframed (raw edge canvases, mounted prints) to minimise materials. The outcome is ethical elegance, high style with a lower footprint.

Environmentally sustainable framing trends

Tip: Ask for sustainably sourced timber, durable joinery, and glazing that extends lifespan. Longevity is sustainability.

5) Beyond Gold: Matte Black, Brass & Silver Accents

Alongside gold, matte black, brushed brass, and soft silver frames are trending for their versatility and light‑enhancing qualities. These finishes work across modern minimalism and vintage revival, adding sophistication without visual noise. They’re particularly effective in monochrome photos and curated gallery wall layouts.

Matte Black, Brass & Silver Accents picture frames 2026

Tip: For a contemporary home office, consider a matte black frame with a crisp white mat for photography; it reads sharp, professional, and timeless.

6) Colour‑Coordinated Frames & Bold Contrast

Two parallel currents define colour in 2026: refined harmony (frames echoing an artwork’s accent hue or a room colour) and bold contrast such as weathered brass or matte black around abstract or romantic pieces. Both approaches add intentionality and make art feel integrated rather than “placed”.

Tip: Bring a swatch or reference image when you visit. Our team can fine‑tune frame and mat colours to connect the artwork to your space.

7) Oversized Gallery Walls & Curated Collections

Gallery walls continue their evolution: larger scale, mixed media, and narrative‑driven arrangements. Think curated chaos with restraint - vintage centrepieces beside modern prints, family photos, travel maps, and small 3D objects on shallow shelves. Spacing, hierarchy, and consistent glazing tie the story together while allowing new pieces to be added and rotated over time.

Large gallery walls and curated collections 2026

Tip: Hang with the hero piece at eye line and build out with consistent spacing (typically 50–75 mm). We can discuss your hanging plan and refer you to a professional installer to ensure perfect geometry.

8) Custom & Personalised Framing (Individuality First)

Personal stories will shape 2026; custom framing becomes the default for treasured items - tailored profiles, premium glazing, smart layout decisions, and personalised mat windows (double mats, v‑grooves, accent reveals). The goal; frames that are as unique as the pieces they hold, for homes and workplaces alike.

Tip: Get a free consult at your nearest Frame Today store; bring the artwork and a few smartphone photos of the room. We’ll design a custom frame to suit both.

How to Stay Ahead: Your Practical Guide

Prioritise protection: Choose UV‑filtering or museum‑grade glass, acid‑free mats, and correct backing. The right materials preserve colour and paper integrity for a lifetime.
Consider scale and weight: Larger frames need stronger fixings and sometimes wall studs; we can advise on safe hardware and installation options.
Plan your gallery wall: Map the layout on the floor first, keep consistent gaps (50–75 mm), and use a spirit level; professional installation ensures long‑term alignment.
Ask about sustainable choices: Investigate FSC wood, recycled metals, low‑VOC finishes, and repairable assemblies that extend life.
Leverage speed when it fits: For suitable items and sizes, our same day framing service keeps projects moving without compromising quality (availability varies by store and job complexity).

In conclusion, the framing story for 2026 blends warm metallics, confident scale, depth‑enhancing formats, and sustainable luxury, all personalised to your space and style. Whether you’re framing a single hero canvas, building a gallery wall of family memories, or protecting valuable documents, the right frame turns your piece into a focal point that lasts.

Ready to create something exceptional?

Visit your nearest Frame Today store for on‑site workshop expertise, friendly design advice, and fast, professional service - including same day framing for urgent jobs.