The other week I reached a breaking point with our half-finished hallway — I simply couldn’t stand looking at it one more minute. You know that feeling: you walk by a space a thousand times and finally decide it needs attention now. This hallway is still a work in progress, but since we pass it constantly, it seemed worth tackling a small improvement that would make a big difference.
We still plan to add a ceiling treatment after removing the attic fan and to paint the box-molding wainscoting in a contrasting trim color once I finally pick a shade. In the meantime, I wanted to hang an antique mirror I’d found to help the narrow hallway read larger, so we moved our Nest thermostat to the adjoining wall. Once the thermostat was in a new spot, I had a simple idea to make it visually disappear without interfering with how it works.
This spot is still evolving, but I wanted a solution that looks intentional and keeps the thermostat functioning properly. I experimented with a decorative frame and a few small prints to create a mini gallery, and the result is a simple, affordable way to disguise the thermostat without covering it.
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Why you shouldn’t completely cover a thermostat
It might seem obvious, but one of the most important rules is not to fully cover a thermostat. If you block the unit with art or a box, it can’t read room temperature correctly, which can cause the heating or cooling system to run longer than necessary. That leads to wasted energy and higher utility bills. For that reason I wanted a decorative solution that keeps the face of the thermostat exposed and free to sense the air in the room.
Best picture frame for a Nest thermostat
I found an ornate round picture frame that fit perfectly around the Nest, which made the thermostat feel like a deliberate decorative element instead of an eyesore. The trick is to choose a frame slightly larger than the thermostat, remove any glass or backing that would block airflow, and hang the frame so the thermostat face remains fully exposed and functional.
If you have a different model, simply measure the thermostat and choose a frame that complements those dimensions. Remove the glass and mount the frame directly over the thermostat so the controls and display remain accessible.
It isn’t technically hidden, but it looks far better and still performs as intended. I’d rather maintain accurate temperature control than fully conceal the unit and risk inefficient heating or cooling.
Simple way to hide a thermostat in plain sight
To make the thermostat blend in, I created a mini gallery wall around it. I printed additional vintage floral still-life images to place in four small frames above and below the thermostat. The composition turns the thermostat into the centerpiece of a curated vignette rather than a standalone device on a blank wall.
Arrange frames symmetrically or casually, depending on the look you want. Small 4×6 prints work well for compact frames, but you can scale up the prints if you use larger frames or want a more dramatic grouping.
Free printable vintage floral art set
I created a set of six vintage floral still-life portraits that work perfectly for small frames. I printed them at 4×6, traced the round frames, and cut the prints to fit. If you prefer larger art, you can print oversized copies to fill more wall space.
The printable set is available in my subscriber printable library. If you’re already subscribed, check the printable library link and password provided at the bottom of emails for access. These prints are an easy, cost-effective way to give a cohesive look to a gallery wall around a thermostat or add charm to other small spaces.
This hallway is still a work in progress — I’ll be staring at paint samples for a few more weeks before deciding on the trim color — but even these small changes have made the space feel brighter and more intentional. Simple decorative edits like a framed thermostat and a compact gallery wall can make a noticeable difference, especially in high-traffic areas.
More simple wall decor ideas
DIY Bobbin Frame for a Samsung Frame TV Bezel
How to Hang a Gallery Wall Perfectly Every Time
Where to Buy Vintage Art Online and How to Print Digital Art
