Picking the Perfect Accent Wall: Essential Dos and Don’ts

September 6, 2024

a homeowner painting an accent wall

Accent walls are a fantastic way to add a splash of personality and style to any room. Whether you’re aiming to make a bold statement or simply highlight a specific area, an accent wall can completely transform a space without you having to make the big commitment of painting all four walls. However, choosing the right wall to accent is key to achieving the desired effect. Here are a few factors that you’ll want to keep in mind.

Consider the Room’s Purpose

The function of the room plays a major role in deciding where your accent wall should go and what color you should use. For example, in living rooms, accent walls often serve as backdrops to the main focal point, such as a fireplace or large television, whereas in bedrooms, the wall behind the bed’s headboard is often the best candidate for an accent wall. Home offices, though, usually benefit from an accent wall behind the desk or another part of the room that inspires creativity. In any case, understanding how you can use the room will help guide your choice.

Be Mindful of Existing Architectural Features

Look for architectural details in the room that can be enhanced with an accent wall; features like alcoves, built-ins, fireplaces, or even large windows can serve as a natural canvas for an accent. Fireplaces are natural focal points in any room, and emphasizing one with the right color or texture can make it stand out even more. Likewise, nooks, alcoves, and similar spaces are perfect for accenting since it’ll feel like you’re adding depth and dimension to these spaces.  

Note the Amount of Natural Light & the Room’s Size

The amount of natural light a room receives is another key factor when choosing an accent wall. Rooms with ample natural light have more flexibility, and you can usually safely pick bolder or darker colors for the wall since they won’t feel too overwhelming in a bright space. For rooms with limited natural light, opt for lighter shades or neutral tones to avoid making things feel cramped. It also helps to consider the overall size of the room here; in smaller rooms, accent walls add the illusion of depth, whereas in larger spaces, a bold accent can make it feel anchored and more intimate.

You’ll also want to make sure things remain balanced; your accent walls should complement your other walls, as well as the overall design of the room, not the other way around. In any case, choosing an accent wall is a fun and creative way to personalize your home. Just be mindful that it does require a little thoughtful planning – but the payoff is huge!

About Platinum Painting

Our team here at Platinum Painting has proudly served homeowners in Richardson and across the surrounding DFW metroplex for over 15 years, offering assistance with a wide variety of interior and exterior painting projects. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with our team to set up a FREE estimate, simply give our team a call or visit us online to get started! Telephone: (469) 965-1863.