How to Decorate With Accent Walls to Add Visual Interest

Accent walls are one of the simplest and most effective ways to add personality and visual interest to any room. Whether through bold paint, wallpaper, wood paneling, or textured finishes, accent walls create a focal point that transforms an otherwise ordinary space. The best part? They’re versatile and work well with any design style.

I still remember the first time I added an accent wall to my home. A deep navy blue wall behind my bed turned my minimalist bedroom into a dramatic retreat. It was the perfect mix of cozy and chic, and it taught me how a single wall could change the entire feel of a room. Since then, I’ve explored various techniques—from peel-and-stick wallpaper to shiplap—and the results are always stunning.

In this guide, I’ll show you how to decorate with accent walls and tailor them to your style, so your room feels intentional and elevated.

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Why Choose an Accent Wall?

An accent wall draws attention, adds depth, and helps define a space without overwhelming it. By playing with colors, patterns, and materials, you can highlight architectural features, create a cozy atmosphere, or add a pop of personality.

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1. Choose the Right Wall for Your Accent

Why It Works

The wall you choose determines how the accent wall interacts with the room’s layout and flow.

How to Do It

• Focus on natural focal points: Select a wall that draws the eye, like the one behind a bed, sofa, or dining table.
• Consider symmetry: Choose a wall free of doors, windows, or other interruptions for a balanced look.
• Highlight architecture: Use an accent wall to enhance features like fireplaces or built-in shelving.

Example:

A soft green accent wall behind a headboard creates a calming focal point in a bedroom.

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2. Experiment with Bold Paint Colors

Why It Works

Paint is the easiest and most affordable way to create an accent wall, offering endless color possibilities.

How to Do It

• Use contrasting colors to make the wall stand out—like deep blue in an otherwise neutral room.
• Choose shades that complement the room’s overall palette for cohesion.
• Use matte finishes for a soft, modern look or high-gloss for dramatic effect.

Styling Tip:

Pair a dark charcoal accent wall with light-colored furniture for a striking yet balanced aesthetic.

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Picture Gallery

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3. Add Texture with Wallpaper

Why It Works

Wallpaper introduces patterns and textures that add depth and personality to your accent wall.

How to Do It

• Choose bold, large-scale patterns for a modern statement or subtle prints for a softer effect.
• Use peel-and-stick wallpaper for an easy, removable option.
• Experiment with metallic or textured finishes, like grasscloth, for added sophistication.

Example:

A floral wallpaper accent wall behind a dining table creates an elegant and inviting space.

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4. Incorporate Natural Materials

Why It Works

Materials like wood, stone, or brick bring warmth and organic texture to your accent wall.

How to Do It

• Install shiplap or tongue-and-groove wood paneling for a rustic or coastal vibe.
• Use a faux brick or stone veneer for an industrial or farmhouse-inspired look.
• Opt for slatted wood panels for a modern, Scandinavian-inspired design.

Styling Tip:

A light oak slatted accent wall adds warmth and texture to a minimalist living room.

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5. Use Geometric or Painted Patterns

Why It Works

Geometric shapes or hand-painted designs add a creative, one-of-a-kind touch to your accent wall.

How to Do It

• Use painter’s tape to create stripes, triangles, or abstract designs.
• Combine contrasting colors for bold geometric effects or use tone-on-tone for subtle depth.
• Experiment with stencils to create intricate patterns or murals.

Example:

A navy and white chevron pattern painted on an accent wall gives a modern edge to a kids’ bedroom.

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6. Go Dark and Moody

Why It Works

Dark accent walls create a dramatic and intimate atmosphere, perfect for bedrooms, dining rooms, or reading nooks.

How to Do It

• Use rich tones like charcoal, deep green, or navy to add depth.
• Balance the darkness with lighter furniture and decor to keep the room from feeling too heavy.
• Use accent lighting, like wall sconces or picture lights, to highlight the wall’s richness.

Styling Tip:

A matte black accent wall paired with gold fixtures creates a chic, moody vibe in a dining room.

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7. Try a Gallery Wall on Your Accent Wall

Why It Works

Combining an accent wall with art makes a bold visual statement and showcases your personality.

How to Do It

• Paint the wall a bold color, then layer it with a curated mix of artwork or framed photos.
• Use uniform frames for a cohesive look or mix frame styles for a more eclectic approach.
• Include mirrors or sculptural elements to add dimension.

Example:

A teal accent wall with black-and-white photography creates a striking yet balanced gallery in a hallway.

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8. Incorporate Shelving

Why It Works

Shelving adds functionality to your accent wall while giving you a chance to showcase decor.

How to Do It

• Install floating shelves on your accent wall and style them with books, vases, or plants.
• Choose shelves in contrasting finishes, like black on a white wall, for added drama.
• Use backlighting on shelves for a modern and sophisticated touch.

Example:

A dark gray wall with light wood shelves styled with greenery and ceramics brings a modern-organic feel to a home office.

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9. Add Mirrors for Reflection

Why It Works

Mirrors amplify light and make your accent wall feel more dynamic and expansive.

How to Do It

• Use one oversized mirror for a bold statement or multiple smaller ones for a gallery effect.
• Choose mirrors with decorative frames to add texture and style.
• Place mirrors strategically to reflect natural light or other focal points in the room.

Styling Tip:

A gold-framed round mirror on a rich green accent wall adds elegance and depth to an entryway.

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10. Combine Paint and Materials

Why It Works

Mixing paint with other materials, like wood or wallpaper, creates a layered and visually complex accent wall.

How to Do It

• Paint the upper half of a wall and add wood paneling or shiplap to the lower half.
• Use a bold paint color as a backdrop for a slatted wood or brick overlay.
• Combine geometric painted designs with textured elements for a modern statement.

Example:

A navy-painted wall with vertical wood slats creates a bold yet sophisticated feature in a living room.

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How to Make Your Accent Wall Shine

1. Stick to One Accent Wall: Too many bold walls can overwhelm the room; focus on one to maintain balance.
2. Choose Complementary Colors: Ensure your accent wall complements the rest of your palette for cohesion.
3. Incorporate Lighting: Highlight your accent wall with spotlights, sconces, or string lights.
4. Use Quality Materials: Whether paint, wallpaper, or wood, high-quality materials will make a lasting impact.
5. Keep the Decor Balanced: Avoid cluttering your accent wall with too many elements—less is often more.

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Conclusion

Decorating with an accent wall is a fantastic way to elevate your space, whether you’re aiming for bold, modern drama or subtle, organic warmth. From deep paint colors to textured materials, there are countless ways to make your walls stand out and reflect your style.

When I created my first accent wall, it taught me how a simple change could completely transform a room. Now, it’s my go-to design trick for adding character and focus to any space.

So, pick your favorite idea, and start creating an accent wall that becomes the showstopper of your home!

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FAQ

What’s the best wall to make an accent wall?

Choose a wall that naturally draws the eye, such as the one behind a bed, sofa, or dining table.

Can small rooms have accent walls?

Yes! A well-chosen accent wall can add depth and make a small room feel larger. Stick to lighter tones or subtle textures if you’re worried about overwhelming the space.

What’s the easiest way to create an accent wall?

Painting is the simplest and most budget-friendly option for creating an accent wall.

How do I pair an accent wall with the rest of the room?

Choose colors or materials that complement the room’s existing palette and decor for a cohesive look.

Can I use wallpaper on an accent wall?

Absolutely! Wallpaper is a great way to add pattern, texture, or bold designs to your accent wall. Choose removable options if you want flexibility.