A frame is the piece that ties your display together, and the right frame can transform an image into the perfect aesthetic element in your home or business.
This is why there’s a whole world to explore in framing, as many various types are used to enhance pieces to achieve the ideal environment.
Two of these types are shadow box frames and box frames, each popular for their impact and structure that add complexity to a display. Both have similar shadowing and depth, while the latter offers deeper visuals and is well suited for more expensive or monumental images & pieces.
At The Picture Factory, we make available a selection of both types for our clients as the two deliver different benefits to functionality and have their own setbacks that can make them the wrong choice in some situations, which we explore below.
What is a box frame?
To clarify the differences between shadow vs box frames, we first need to explore what a box frame is.
These frames create a box shape that comes off of the wall when it’s hung up. The depth of the frame is often larger than the top, bottom and sides, and it’s this depth that controls the height of the box.
When holding a piece inside, these frames add depth and shadow to the piece, providing an attractive and captivating appearance. They’re like most other picture frames but with a larger distance between the picture and the protective glass. They’re often used for smaller but significant items, like certificates or expensive pieces of art because of the impactful visual effect they create.
What is a shadow box frame?
Shadow box frames are part of the larger box frame family. The sides slope slightly inwards to create a cave effect which is largely responsible for the captivating shadow cast onto the piece.
This type of frame is designed to add extra depth and dimension to a display, perfect for showcasing 3D objects, memorabilia, or layered artwork. This makes them ideal for preserving not only photographs but also objects, such as medals, keepsakes, or dried flowers.
The difference between a shadow box vs frame
Box and shadow box frames both enhance the appearance of picture displays through their depth and complexity, but with different magnitudes. The differences between a shadow box vs frame can help you decide which to choose for a particular piece in your home:
Dimensions
Box frames typically exist within particular frame dimensions and have an expected depth, where shadow box frames have deeper dimensions so the shadow cast on the piece is increased.
Box frames typically come in standard frame sizes with a consistent depth, designed to provide a subtle yet impactful visual enhancement. Its depth allows for a noticeable space between the artwork or photograph and the protective glass, which adds a slight shadow and creates a sense of dimension.
Meanwhile, shadow boxes are perfect when you want to emphasize the importance or uniqueness of the object within, making it a focal point in your home or office décor.
While both types of frames provide dimensionality, shadow boxes offer greater depth and a more pronounced shadow, making them suitable for larger or more significant items, while box frames are best for flatter, more traditional displays where subtlety is key.
Visual Impact
As box frames have a similar effect, but with less depth and visual impact, they’re excellent frames for displaying photographs, drawings and prints where the image details can shine. They’re usually also a bit lighter, so they work well with housing lightweight pictures.
Shadow box frames are fantastic for preserving items in an excluded case frame and making items or prints you have in your home appear more engaging. Due to their greater visual effect, many decorators use them to display more significant items, such as artwork, awards and memorabilia.
Practicality
Shadow boxes take up a large amount of space because of their depth. This can mean they hang far out from the wall and can be knocked easily, so it’s best to implement them in low foot traffic areas.
Box frames take up less space and don’t demand the same attention, so they’re more suitable in busy areas of the home.
Showcase Your Favourite Pieces Today
When you’re looking for a way to show off your favourite artwork, photos or certificates, we’ve got you covered here at The Picture Factory.
Shadow boxes offer visual impact due to their greater dimensions and are better for preserving 3D objects. Box frames, on the other hand, are lighter and more practical for flat artwork or photographs. They’re also easier to place in busy areas of the home, whereas shadow boxes, due to their size, are better suited to low-traffic areas to avoid damage.
For more information on our wider selection of frames, contact us today. We’re always here to assist you in choosing the perfect frame for your artwork and treasured photos.
