Kare Design
Guide

Picture frames that steal the show from your photo

Pia Seidel
27.10.2025
Translation: machine translated

I was recently in a concept store in Zurich - and was immediately enamoured. Hanging between stylish vases and modern furniture were picture frames that were so special that I almost overlooked the prints in them. That was the great thing: the frames themselves looked like little works of art.

Normally, the frame is always in the shadow of the picture. But why actually? Designs with ombre effects, crazy Memphis-style grid patterns or wavy edges show that the frame itself becomes an eye-catcher - and draws the picture into the limelight.

And I find that refreshing. Sure, the photo, the painting or even the passe-partout play a role. But why shouldn't the frame be just as much in the spotlight? Especially if it stands out from the crowd. For example, I saw a frame with a colour gradient in bright pink and orange. It immediately reminded me of a sunset. And next to it, a frame with lots of little balls that almost looked like a sculpture.

Memphis vibes: When the frame gets more attention than the photo.
Memphis vibes: When the frame gets more attention than the photo.
Source: Kare Design

How designs with a strong character shine

  1. Keep it simple: Give the frame space to work. An empty wall without much around it is perfect. If it's on a shelf, it should have some space around it on the right and left
  2. Colours that pop: Dare to choose not only unusual shapes, but also eye-catching colours and patterns. This turns a simple print into an eye-catcher.
  3. Mix it up: Combine different styles. Ombre next to pink pearls? Why not - that makes it exciting.
  4. Clever choice of content: Choose images that push the frame - or deliberately play against it. Black and white photo in a bright red ball frame? Mega.

From basic to bold: how to get the most out of it

Eccentric frames are the easy way to give your home a creative boost. They make your pictures even cooler and are a statement in themselves. Try it out - your empty sideboards or walls will thank you.

Umbra Flute (13 x 18 cm, 10 x 15 cm)
Picture frames
−10%
CHF25.90 was CHF28.90

Umbra Flute

13 x 18 cm, 10 x 15 cm

Polaroid Acrylic Photo Frame - Coloured - 3 Pack (10 x 15 cm)
Picture frames
CHF27.–

Polaroid Acrylic Photo Frame - Coloured - 3 Pack

10 x 15 cm

Umbra Flute (13 x 18 cm, 10 x 15 cm)
−10%
CHF25.90 was CHF28.90

Umbra Flute

13 x 18 cm, 10 x 15 cm

Polaroid Acrylic Photo Frame - Coloured - 3 Pack (10 x 15 cm)
CHF27.–

Polaroid Acrylic Photo Frame - Coloured - 3 Pack

10 x 15 cm

Do you already have a favourite frame? Describe it in the comments - I'm curious.

Header image: Kare Design

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Like a cheerleader, I love celebrating good design and bringing you closer to everything furniture- and interior design- related. I regularly curate simple yet sophisticated interior ideas, report on trends and interview creative minds about their work.


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