ART LEDGE TUTORIAL
Before deciding to do the art rail installation over the toilet, the blank wall seemed rather ominous. While not a huge spans of wall, it was definitely large enough that a single piece of art may not have been quite enough. Knowing how much the couple loves art, I played with the idea of a traditional gallery wall, but in the end the art rail/ledge idea felt right. It was an unexpected choice for the bathroom and you all know that I like to take the unexpected route whenever possible.
This install could have happened a few ways… I could have built the art rails from scratch. Totally possible, but time was a factor. So I opted for ready made Mosslanda ledges from Ikea. Wanting them to run the full width of the wall, I did have to modify them a little bit. After purchasing 4 rails, I installed the first two in their full length. If you are unable to attach them into the studs, be sure to use the proper wall anchors for your space/walls. I then cut down two of the remaining rails to the exact length needed using my radial arm saw. This ensured the cut would be clean a quick as to not compromise the white finish.
The shelves were now up and filled the entire wall! There was a little bit of cosmetics to deal with, I used a tube of white latex caulk used for trim, windows and doors to deal with the seams. I added a thin bead of caulk to the ends (against the walls) as well as the seams where the two ledges meet. To cover the screws, the ledges come with a pack of little white stickers. Honestly, you can use them or not. I knew that I would be piling on as much art as possible, and the holes would never be visible.
Then came the fun part, layering on all of the art!
SHOP THE SPACE
I’m confused. Why are there half-shelves in the first photo and full length shelves in the second?
As stated in the post, I had to combine two shelves to create the look of one continuous shelf. As they are ready made shelves and not the exact lengths I needed. Hope this helps!
Love this!!
Looks really lively, Kristin. I love the transformation so much 🙂
I really love the vintage dresser. Was this something the owners had or did you find it on craigslist? I love how you’re able to mix the old with the new and make it look cohesive. Great Job!
It was actually from Restoration Hardware, so not vintage. And yes, this was something the homeowners already owned. I was thrilled to be able to incorporate it into this space.
Would you be able to share the sources for the rest of the art as well? So fun!
Thanks!! The majority of the art is either book pages, things previously owned and even a few pieces I did to help fill the wall.
You have the best ideas! I too love art and very have enough space for all the pieces I want to show. Ledges, yes! Unexpected spot, yes! Love love love it!