Trendsetting Accent Wall Ideas

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An accent wall can add character, depth, texture, or a vibrant splash of color which revitalizes any space.

Sometimes, a room can feel like it’s missing something. It could be lighting, color, or a focal point. These are all easy fixes, which is why decorating and home decor is so fun.

In this post, I want to talk about accent wall ideas. I have had my share of accent wall creations. I’m talking wallpaper, faux board and batten, shiplap, and picture gallery wall. I’m sure there is more, but you get the picture here; I really enjoy the idea of accent walls.

The thing I love about them is that they create depth and texture. It’s a lovely visual for the eyes, and it can really enhance a room vibe.

Talking Points:

• Wall accents can transform a space: With the right choice, they add depth, texture, and color.
• Choosing the right accent is crucial: It should complement the room’s existing style and atmosphere.
• Variety of options: From accent wall paint to wood panels, there are myriad possibilities to explore.

WHAT IS YOUR ACCENT WALL STYLE?

Knowing your style before going full steam ahead on a wall accent project is the first step to getting it right. This may seem an easy step, but it’s one that throws some people off. Not everyone knows or has a style. I am one of those people.

I think it’s a silly concept to think that you need to pick one style and that’s it. The beauty of home decor is that you can do whatever the (you know what) you want. The key is blending it all together and making it cohesive.

My advice is to look on Pinterest, Houzz, home decor magazines, or any social media platform really, and bookmark what appeals to you. By doing this, you will become inspired to create an accent wall suitable for your taste.

Color Contrast Walls

A room with contrasting wall colors is the easiest way to incorporate an accent in your space. There are a few different ways to go about this, and using color theory is extremely helpful.

For instance, you can go with monochromatic colors all in the same shade range, or you can work with contrasting colors. Color theory is a great tool to help you combine colors confidently.

A great example of this at work is a cool rustic blue paired with a warm, sandy tone. This mix doesn’t just set the scene; it tells a story of modern meets vintage wall accents. I’ve learned how important it is to find balance – a pop of color against a more toned-down palette. Seeing these ideas come to life in your own living room or DIY projects is truly magical.

Textured Walls: A Bold Statement

I’m always amazed at how textured walls, whether brick, stone, or 3D panels, can utterly transform a room. These materials bring texture and visual depth that flat paints or traditional wallpapers struggle to match. Adding texture to a wall may seem daunting and out of your skill range at first. However, with the right tools and a bit of patience and willingness to learn, I promise you it is worth it in the end.

Brick gives off a cool, rustic vibe that’s hard to beat, adding character to living rooms or kitchens. On the other hand, stone brings a bit of the outdoors inside, creating a chill, natural vibe. And those 3D panels? They’re like a modern art lover’s dream. They mess around with light and shadow, turning plain walls into cool art pieces. Spaces with these textures have a level of class and personality that I find super inspiring.

Wood Accent Walls

I’m a sucker for the cozy vibe that wood accent walls bring to a space. Whether it’s the cool look of reclaimed wood, the clean lines of shiplap, or the classic feel of wood paneling, these materials add depth, texture, and character. A wood accent wall will change a room, creating a rustic, relaxed atmosphere that makes you want to kick back and de-stress.

If you’re thinking of attacking a wood accent wall as a DIY project, it can be a really satisfying experience. First off, choose your material – reclaimed wood is eco-friendly and has a story, while shiplap and paneling tend to offer a more polished look.

I created a couple of faux shiplap walls in my old house, providing my rooms with the focal point they needed. I also added faux board and batten to the guest room in my old house. This was a fun and easy way to add both color and visual depth to the wall.

These DIYs may seem simple, but it does require precision and patience (two of my favorite things). However, the feeling of pride you get with each plank installed is irreplaceable. And to boot, the room gains more personality.

Wallpaper Accent Wall Ideas

Wallpaper is one of my absolute favorite ways to create an accent wall in a room. I have used wallpaper more than a handful of times; it was none of the previous houses I owned. I used everything from bold colors and punchy visuals to subtle colors and designs.

The key to wallpaper is that when picking a pattern, think about how it will work with the size of the room and the natural light. A bold, big print can turn a small room into a cozy spot, while lighter, more subtle patterns can add depth and interest without taking over the space.

Hanging wallpaper is not for the faint of heart. When you’re installing it, it’s important to take your time and be really careful. If you’re into doing things yourself, make sure to measure everything precisely and get everything lined up just right. And please measure twice. I have made this mistake before.

And if you are uncomfortable tackling it yourself, it’s best to call in the pros, especially if you’re dealing with tricky patterns or weird room layouts. The main thing is to make sure the result looks amazing and lasts a long time, making your space look awesome every time you see it.

Create a gallery wall

This is probably the easiest accent wall idea you can create. Adding a gallery wall to a room can totally change the vibes. I have created gallery walls on the staircase, the hallway, and the living room. But you can do it anywhere it will work in your home.

If I could give any advice, it would be to go with a plan. Initially, I grabbed a bunch of random frames I had in my possession and just started hanging them up. I quickly realized I should have planned this project better; it looked crazy. So, I had to start from scratch, and I’m glad I did because the results were gorgeous.

I found that planning ahead was not a waste of time. Rather, it was super helpful. I drew out my wall and thought about how each piece would fit together, considering dimensions. And by doing this the second time, it created the outcome I hoped for.

Here’s a bit of an example step-by-step plan that may help:

• Define Your Theme: Decide whether you’re going for a contemporary vibe, vintage flair, or perhaps a mix. This will guide your art and frame selection.
• Measure Your Space: Understand the wall area you have to work with. This will prevent overcrowding or underutilization of space.
• Arrange Before You Hang: Lay everything on the floor to experiment with layouts. Balance larger pieces with smaller ones to create symmetry or an intentionally asymmetrical look.
• Consider Colors: Color contrast can make your wall pop. Blend colors from existing room decor for cohesion or choose bold accents for a dramatic effect.

Follow these steps or, at the least, do a little planning. The result will be worth the extra effort you put in, I promise.

Incorporating Murals

Creating a mural in a room is such a fantastic way to bring a very personalized accent wall into your home. One place in particular that I think that a mural works beautifully is in a nursery. But you can create one in any room you choose.

Picking out a mural is all about finding the right mix of colors and themes. Basically, it is something that will work well with your style. A good mural can totally change the vibe of the room. It can be tough to choose the right one, but if you play off the existing decor in your room and think about the mood you want to set, it makes the decision a bit easier.

Now comes how to create the mural, DIY, or call in a professional. For me, I would call in a professional because I can’t draw. But this is something you feel comfortable creating yourself. I think that adds such a personal touch and will give you a sense of pride when it’s completed.

Should you tackle a DIY ACCent wall project?

I’ve done a bunch of DIY projects, from easy ones to more complicated ones. It’s pretty cool to see how you can completely change a room with just your own two hands. One thing about me is that I will always try to DIY something within my range, of course. You need to know your limits.

Some of these accent wall ideas are easier to create than others. For example, creating a gallery accent wall is more beginner-friendly than, say, installing board and batten.

So, when you are trying to decide whether or not an accent wall you want to create is DIYable, do your research. Make sure you are comfortable before moving forward.

WANT MORE DIY? CHECK THESE OUT:

• How to Paint Shiplap
• DIY Drop Cloth Curtains
• How to Decoupage on Wood
• Adorable Coffee Filter Flowers
• How to Refinish a Hope Chest

Choosing the Right Accent Wall for Small Spaces

I’ve found that small spaces can seem and feel bigger with the right decor choices. Accent walls are a great trick for this, along with picking the right colors, of course, and materials that can make a room look larger. For example, using light colors for an accent wall or using wallpaper with vertical stripes can trick the eye and make the ceiling look higher.

The thing to remember is that scale is also really important. You can make a small room look bigger by using a large piece of art or creating a cool gallery wall. Placing mirrors strategically, especially across from windows, can make the space feel brighter and seem twice as big. I’ve seen these tricks and also used them to totally transform small living rooms, making them not only look bigger but also feel welcoming, cozy, and full of character.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are a few questions that tend to be on people’s minds.

Can accent wall paint really change the vibe of my room?

Yep, choosing a bold or different color for just one wall can really change the whole vibe of the room. It gives the room a focal point. It also creates its own unique style and gives the room a bit of spunk.

Is installing wood accent walls costly?

This all depends on the materials you choose and how you opt to have it installed, Going the DIY way will save you on labor. The type of wood you choose is where you will accumulate the costs. If you are on a super budget, choose an inexpensive type of wood. Or better yet, find old pallets businesses are tossing out. I have done this before. It will save you money but will add to the workload.

Are wallpaper accent ideas viable for renters?

This one depends on where you are renting from. I am currently renting, it’s a large apartment complex, and they do allow the tenants to use removable wallpaper. This is amazing because there is such a wide variety of removable wallpaper available now. Before you buy anything, check with your landlord or apartment complex.

What maintenance is required for textured walls? 

Textured walls will most likely need a little dusting or gentle cleaning. For specific materials like brick or 3D wall art, follow the manufacturer’s care instructions closely.

Do mural designs or gallery walls suit small spaces?

Yes, murals can visually expand a room, and gallery walls personalize space efficiently. Both require strategic planning to ensure the area doesn’t feel overwhelmed.

Final Thoughts- accent wall ideas to enhance any space

Have I convinced you how awesome an accent wall in a room would be? Seriously though, it’s not the old run-of-the-mill decor that you go pick out at Target or Home Goods. Creating a focal point wall will add your personality and character to your room. It doesn’t matter what you choose to do: contrasting paint colors or a DIY wood accent. It will make your space pop.

I have to put it out there: make sure you think about your choices and do the research before moving forward. It’s super easy to get caught up in the world of trends, especially on social media. Consider your existing decor and what will work with that. You want your room to be cohesive, not all over the place.

So, I encourage you to take a step back, assess your space, and let your creativity lead the way. Whether it’s through DIY wall decor projects or integrating sustainable options, the opportunity to refresh your space is limitless. Embrace the journey of curating wall accents that not only speak to you but also transform your space into a haven of personalized beauty.