Photo Frames – A Guide to Choosing Beautiful, Meaningful Designs
Photos are powerful parts of a home. They hold memories, capture moments, and bring a personal warmth to any space. As Frank Zappa once said, “The most important thing in art is the frame.” A frame should complement the photograph while adding elegance to the room around it.
Photo Frame Sizes
Traditional photo frame sizes still follow the old imperial measurements from film photography. Common dimensions include 10"x8", 7"x5", 6"x4" and 4"x4". Although we refer to frames by these inner sizes, the outer dimensions vary depending on the frame’s style and decoration.
Choose your frame size based on where it will sit. Spacious rooms with wide console tables can accommodate 10"x8" frames; smaller rooms benefit from more compact sizes. When space allows, mixing multiple sizes creates an attractive, layered display.
Materials
Most frames start with a base of wood or metal. At Forwood Design, we believe high-quality materials make all the difference. Our wooden frames use premium European, North American and Japanese hardwoods such as Walnut, Sycamore and Japanese Tamo Ash. We often use wood on the back as well, as it cleans easily and adds durability.
Photo Frame Finishes
This is where Forwood Design truly stands apart. Henry Forwood has long been inspired by natural materials, using his experience with wood to explore sustainable, realistic finishes. Over the years, he has developed exceptional faux materials including Shagreen, Linen, Silk, Tortoiseshell, Lapis Lazuli, Malachite and a unique crushed eggshell finish. By combining these with fine woods and elegant metals, he has created a distinctive collection of refined photo frames.
These bespoke frames bring style to mantelpieces, shelving and console tables, elevating both modern and traditional interiors.
Marquetry Cube Photo Frames
The Marquetry Cube Photo Frames offer timeless sophistication through intricate handcrafted inlay. Available in 10"x8" and 7"x5", they are ideal for family portraits, travel memories or special artwork. Their geometric pattern suits both contemporary and classic décor, making them popular with designers and homeowners alike.
Each frame is meticulously handcrafted using traditional marquetry techniques, blending rich wood tones for depth and texture. They form part of a coordinated desk set that includes a matching desk tray and letter rack, perfect for a cohesive workspace. Made from responsibly sourced materials, these frames are beautiful pieces of functional art.
Choosing the Right Frame
A frame should enhance the photograph without overpowering it. Black and white images shine in simple monochrome frames, while colourful photos benefit from frames that echo their dominant tones. Consider the décor of the room as well—matching finishes with furniture or accent colours creates harmony.
Photo frames also contribute significantly to the atmosphere of a space. A thoughtful arrangement on a console, bedside table or gallery wall adds depth, warmth and character. By mixing materials, sizes and shapes, you can create visually engaging displays that feel both personal and stylish.
Why Quality Frames Matter
Photo frames do more than hold pictures—they help transform a house into a home. They tell stories, celebrate milestones and create focal points that spark conversation. Offering a thoughtfully curated selection of well-crafted designs ensures customers can find frames that complement their taste, whether classic, modern or eclectic.
Understanding the craftsmanship and intention behind each frame allows homeowners to appreciate them as meaningful elements of interior design. With the right selection, a space becomes not just beautiful, but rich with personal significance and enduring style.
