Accent Walls: How to Make a Bold Statement with Paint

Choose the Right Wall

When planning an accent wall, selecting the right wall is the first step. The ideal wall is often the one that naturally catches your eye upon entering the room. For example, in a living room, this might be the wall behind a fireplace or a large sofa. In bedrooms, the wall behind the bed serves as a popular choice for accent walls, providing a strong focal point.

Walls to Avoid

Avoid choosing walls with doors, windows, or heavy decor. Too many distractions on the accent wall can dilute its effect and reduce the overall impact. Instead, keep it simple and make the wall the main attraction.

Pick the Perfect Colour

Colour choice is key to an impactful accent wall. If your existing decor has a soft, neutral palette, a rich colour like deep blue, emerald green, or warm terracotta can add a vibrant focal point. For modern interiors, dark greys and even matte blacks create a sophisticated, stylish look.

Colour Ideas Based on Room Style

If your decor is already colourful, select a shade that complements existing tones rather than clashing. For a harmonious look, use accent colours from your room’s textiles or artwork. For instance, if you have cushions with hints of mustard, a mustard-toned accent wall can tie the space together beautifully.

Experiment with Texture and Finishes

Paint doesn’t have to be flat. A textured finish, like a soft matte or an eggshell gloss, can change how light reflects off the wall, adding depth and interest. Matte finishes offer a more subdued effect, while glossier finishes can enhance natural light, making the colour pop even more.

Adding Texture for Dimension

If you want to go further, consider adding textured elements like a plaster finish, brushed metallics, or even a subtle stencilled pattern. These finishes give your accent wall an extra dimension and can make it feel like a true centrepiece of the room.

Complement with Furnishings

Once your accent wall is painted, tie the look together with complementary furnishings. Use cushions, throws, or rugs in matching or contrasting colours to harmonise the room. If your accent wall is a bold, earthy green, a few touches of greenery around the room can reinforce the theme.

Keeping Balance with Accessories

For a bolder approach, consider adding artwork or shelves to the accent wall. Minimalist pieces in contrasting tones can add character without overwhelming the wall.

Keep Proportion in Mind

Bold Colours for Large Rooms

The effect of an accent wall varies with room size. In smaller rooms, a dark or intense colour on one wall can create a feeling of coziness, drawing the space inward. However, lighter tones on an accent wall can add a feeling of openness, which works well in compact spaces. Large rooms, on the other hand, are more forgiving – feel free to go bolder with darker hues.

Consider Colour Psychology

Accent walls provide a great opportunity to use colour psychology in home design. For example, blue and green are known for their calming effects, making them perfect for bedrooms or relaxation areas. Meanwhile, warm colours like red, orange, and yellow bring energy and vibrancy – ideal for social spaces like dining rooms or kitchens.

Energising Colours for Social Spaces

Using these ideas, you can not only make a design statement but also shape the atmosphere of the room. Be mindful of the mood you’d like to create, and choose colours that align with it.

Embrace Dark Colours – Even in Small Spaces

There’s a common belief that dark colours should be avoided in small rooms, but a well-placed dark accent wall can actually add depth and make a space feel larger. Dark shades like navy, charcoal, or forest green can make the wall seem to recede, creating an illusion of more space.

Balancing Dark Walls with Light Decor

Pair dark accent walls with lighter surroundings to maintain balance, such as with pale furnishings or lighter paint on the remaining walls. This contrast can create a striking visual effect that adds sophistication without overwhelming the room.

Use Patterns to Add Drama

For a unique touch, consider using patterns instead of a solid colour. Geometric shapes, bold stripes, or even subtle gradients can add drama to an accent wall. Painted patterns give you the flexibility to go as intricate or simple as you like, allowing you to personalise the space fully.

Simple Two-Tone Designs

Patterns work well in spaces like home offices, children’s bedrooms, or even entryways where they can make a memorable first impression. Just be cautious to not overdo it – sometimes a simple two-tone colour scheme in a geometric layout is all you need to add a bit of flair.

Coordinate with Lighting

Lighting plays a crucial role in making an accent wall shine. Natural light will affect how colours appear, so observe how light hits the wall throughout the day. For evening ambience, warm LED lighting or strategically placed wall sconces can create a soft glow that enhances the accent colour, making it feel cosy and inviting.

Accent Walls for Every Style

Whether you’re after a bold, statement look or a subtle touch of colour, an accent wall is a versatile and budget-friendly way to add depth and character to any room. By carefully selecting the right wall, colour, texture, and complementary decor, you can create a look that feels both impactful and harmonious.