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Decorating + Accessories

33 feature wall ideas to bring a bold accent to any space

A feature wall is a perfect way to give a room a dramatic update without having to repaint the whole space, replace the decor or change out the furniture . By highlighting just one surface with a distinctive wallpaper or paint color that perfectly complements the whole room, you can make a huge impact. Ready to try it in your home? Check out some of our favorite feature wall ideas first!

1. Replace the headboard with a fun print

One of the benefits of a headboard is that it anchors the bed in a room, but some may prefer a less grounded feel. For those who like to feel a little more untethered when they sleep, replacing the headboard with a patterned bedroom accent wall will create a more open, spacious feel.

2.  Go wild with animal print

For a more playful touch, you can’t go wrong with animal print. Whether you have a favorite mammal, an appreciation of all things avian or a childhood love of insects, you can find a print to fit your space.

3.  Be intentional about your color combos

As you pick your accent wall ideas, consider how your color choices will interact with your furniture, decor or bedding . Try to create a sense of harmony rather than simply matching tones. For example, when combined, neighboring colors on the color wheel (like green and yellow) can be enhanced by a composite color (like brown).

4.  Feature a boundary wall

Updating a transition room? Try turning the short wall forming the boundary between spaces into a feature wall. This will create a more distinct contrast between the two rooms.

5.  Customize with peel-and-stick wallpaper

Wallpaper is perfect for creating fun, original feature walls, and with peel-and-stick options, it’s easy to apply and change it out. Swap these self-adhesive pieces out on a whim to keep any space fresh.

6.  Lighten up with a bold yellow accent

Yellow is almost universally associated with light, making it a great choice for a room that could use a little brightening up. Try a charming, sunny shade for a kitchen or living room accent wall.

7.  Set it off with art

If you want to create an even more dynamic look with your feature wall, adorn it with art . Pick pieces with features that reflect the print, or look for colors that complement the wall’s tone.

8.  Set the scene with an active print

A print with rich hues and a complex design is a bold choice that could make a huge impact as a feature wall. Creative feature wall ideas like these work especially well in spaces with toned-down palettes and a minimal aesthetic.

9.  Maximize a smaller wall

If you live in an apartment or have a small space you’re looking to amplify, try featuring a small wall. Use a distinctive color or striking print to bring big character to a little room.

10.  Pick an atypical wall

Decorating a room with a sloping ceiling, quirky layout or atypical construction? Pick an angled or non-square surface for your feature wall. This will turn the funky feature into a distinctive design element.

11.  Style a wall with shelves

Want to create an accent without sacrificing storage? Feature walls can also be used to enhance functional spaces. Try updating the paint or adding wallpaper to a wall with shelving in your kitchen, bedroom or bathroom.

12.  Take it outside

We dedicate a lot of thought to the way we design and decorate our indoor spaces, but what about our outdoor ones? Freshen up a boundary wall or make your porch pop with a weather-proof feature wall.

13.  Shape up the space with geometric print

Looking for wallpaper ideas for a living room feature wall? Consider going with a trendy geometric print. These sharp-lined designs add a layer of complexity to comfy spaces.

14.  Brighten up the space with a citrus print

To make it feel like summer year-round, go with a bright, citrusy feature wall. Look for uplifting botanical prints featuring lemons, grapefruit or orange blossoms.

15.  Reflect the decor

When it comes to feature walls, ideas should reflect both the space as a whole and the unique taste of the person designing them. If your design style starts with distinctive decor , pick a print or color scheme that meshes with your favorite pieces.

16.  Embrace your inner child with a cartoon design

We’re all still kids at heart—and a playful, cartoonish print is a perfect choice for an adult or child’s space. From hand-drawn animals to comic book heroes to whimsical sketches, try one out on a feature wall to add a touch of fun to any room.

17.  Dazzle with a celestial print

The best bedroom feature wall ideas promote a sense of calm, helping you unwind when you go to bed at night. Using a celestial accent wall behind your bed will make it feel like you’re falling asleep beneath the stars.

18.  Get comfy with a navy bedroom feature wall

Another relaxing bedroom accent wall idea? Deep, dark navy. This versatile color evokes nighttime hues and makes a great accent to brightly colored quilts or duvet covers .

19.  Try black and white stripes

There’s something about the stripped-down contrast of black and white stripes that adds complexity to a space. Picking this design for a single feature wall is a good way to add a unique dimension to a living room, kitchen or entryway .

20.  Feature a bathroom wall

The humble bathroom is always a good candidate for a feature wall. Whether for an adult or kid’s bathroom , adding a distinctive, colorful pattern to the vanity or bathtub wall will help open up the space.

21.  Bring the outdoors inside with a scenic print

Love the great outdoors? Remind yourself of the scenes, landscapes and vistas you adore by adding a striking scenic print as a feature wall in your bedroom or living room.

22.  Texturize the space with grasscloth wallpaper

If you’re looking for a distinctive accent wall idea, consider using a grasscloth wallpaper. Made from a cotton weave, this option gives any room a natural yet luxurious feel.

23.  Accentuate with peel-and-stick wall accents

If you don’t want to change the paint color or commit to a full wallpaper print for your feature wall, try adding peel-and-stick decals . Decals let you customize your wall and give your space a slightly subtler accent.

24.  Create an industrial feel with brick wallpaper

If you’ve ever wanted to replicate the trendy industrial feel of a hip coffee shop, add a temporary brick wallpaper. Using this as a feature wall behind your office desk is a fun way to upgrade your workstation.

25.  Go rustic with a faux wood accent wall

Give your space a touch of that classic rustic feel with faux wood wallpaper. The realistic paneling will add a unique look to any room and makes for a striking video meeting background for WFH-ers.

26.  Liven up the room with a plant print

We love living room feature wall ideas that liven up the space, and a plant print absolutely ticks that box. Look for a bold option to add a bright, natural touch to the room.

27.  Feature your fireplace

Everybody loves the warm, homey feel of a fireplace . Why not take yours up a notch with some fireplace feature wall ideas? Try matching the wall, fireplace and hearth colors to set the space off from the rest of the room.

28.  Contrast with dark prints

This approach may seem like a bold choice, but it makes for a gorgeous feature wall in a bright room. Look for an elegant print in a brighter color set against a rich, dark base.

29.  Accent a kitchen counter wall

A kitchen accent wall is a great way to enhance the style of your cooking or dining area. In place of a backsplash, try adding a gorgeous print to the wall behind your sink to perfectly accentuate the space.

30.  Go for an extra modern feature

A feature wall with a trendy modern print is sure to stand out. Make an impression on your guests by using one to spruce up spaces like a bathroom, living room or even a small entryway .

31.  Straighten up with a vertical line scheme

Vertical lines can have a lengthening effect in a room. The lines draw eyes upward, giving the space the appearance of height. When used on a feature wall, this trick can create a more dynamic look in any room.

32.  Consider an abstract art feel

For art fans, an abstract color design can make for a stylish accent wall. Whether you go for a bold wallpaper or paint the wall yourself, this is a modern option for your home.

33.  Get hip with an ombré wall

Blending gradually from a light hue to a dark one, this trendy color effect creates a gorgeous accent wall. Try it in warm, comfy spaces like a parlor or bedroom.

Feature walls are the perfect way to amp up just about any space, from a guest bathroom to a modern kitchen to a minimalist living room . Ready to get started? Whether you decide to go with a trendy wallpaper print or a thoughtfully selected paint color, these feature wall ideas should get you on your way!

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20 Travel-Inspired Decorating Ideas to Evoke Your Favorite Destination

Showcase globes, maps, suitcases, and other accessories from your travels throughout your home.

Andrea Beck served as garden editor at BHG and her work has appeared on Food & Wine, Martha Stewart, MyRecipes, and more.

Most everyone has souvenirs from their travels, whether it’s shells from the beach, novelty T-shirts, or even just plenty of photos. Luckily, there are plenty of both subtle and bold ways to incorporate your love for travel into your home.

Hanging photos is simple, but you can also turn them into a statement by creating a gallery wall or even unique wallpaper. Or use photos of places you dream of going, maps, or subway routes for more graphic, abstract art. Small touches can also add elements of travel to your home. Vintage suitcases come in many colors and can be displayed to add extra storage or serve as an end table. Use these travel decor ideas as inspiration, then adapt them to fit your favorite places and trips.

Seashell Display

Cameron Sadeghpour

Large seashells from a beach vacation double as tabletop travel decor and as a way to display Polaroids. Smaller shells can also nest inside a larger shell as a way to show them off on a shelf or table. Place them next to a blue glass lamp reminiscent of sea glass to tie the coastal theme into the rest of the room.

Abstract Travel Wall Decor

Adam Albright

City maps make stunning travel wall decor and are a great way to remember some of your favorite (or dream) destinations. These pictures lean abstract, using the city streets to create a leaf-like design. The shades of green used on each map complement dark green wall paint .

Subtle Travel Decor

Ann VanderWiel Wilde

Small accents can help show your love for a destination without dominating a room. In this alcove, a simple metal sign shaped like the state of Minnesota hangs above a rustic dresser with other memorabilia. This travel wall decor fits into almost any room and can take the shape of a favorite country or city skyline.

Map Wall Art

Using maps as wall decor is an easy way to incorporate graphic art in muted pastel colors. Despite varying color palettes, this trio of maps feels cohesive thanks to neutral frames with white mats. Bold navy walls help further showcase the travel decor.

Suitcase Bar Cart

Cocktails (or zero-proof drinks ) can definitely be part of a great vacation, so it’s only natural to incorporate travel decor into your home bar cart . A vintage suitcase is the focal point of this bar cart and acts as unique storage for a variety of bottles and bar tools. Antique drawers contain glassware and match the feel of the old-fashioned suitcase.

Seashell Storage

Brie Williams

Seashells are a popular beach souvenir, but finding a place to store them can be tricky. These embellished boxes are a beautiful way to display shells. Each box features a mosaic of shells while also providing storage on a living room mantel . Complete the look with other ocean souvenirs, like driftwood or sea glass, and vases and artwork with blue accents.

Entryway Travel Decor

David A Land

Display travel decor in your home’s entryway for a reminder of your favorite destinations every time you walk in the door. This console table includes a travel bag that's ready to be grabbed for any adventure. Houseplants also help give the space a tropical feel, and the tabletop provides a surface to display travel photos.

Travel Wallpaper

In addition to small accents, you can also add travel decor to your home on a larger scale. World maps paper the walls of this bedroom . The muted colors complement natural wood furniture and blue accents on the bed. The wallpaper contributes eye-catching texture without overwhelming the space.

Showcase Souvenirs

KIM CORNELISON

This living room features several souvenirs that work together in a subtle way. A gallery wall incorporates map artwork; its bright colors and abstract shapes coordinate with a globe perched on top of a bookcase. A bright blue vintage suitcase on one shelf nods to vacationing and pairs well with the navy velvet sofa .

Historical Wall Decor

Alisal Ranch

These large-scale framed maps act almost as an accent wall in this dining space. It includes historical boundaries and territory lines from the early days of the U.S., and its rustic appearance matches the wood-plank wall and vintage chairs. A large map can also serve as a way of tracking your travels across the country.

Bookshelf Display

If you enjoy collecting art on your travels, display them together on a shelf to blend souvenirs with your personal style. This bookcase includes a variety of vases, figurines, and sculptures from a variety of destinations. Natural materials like wood and earthy colors tie everything together.

Mural Accent Wall

John Bessler

Large-scale wallpaper prints can be overwhelming, but using them on an accent wall is a stylish way to add a bold pattern to a room. This living room has a tropical feel thanks to the blue and green mural of palm trees. The colors tie in with the area rug, and the graphic print contrasts the black-and-white striped seating.

Vibrant Color Palette

Dustin Halleck

The rich jewel tones of this library create a luxurious feeling. Stacked vintage suitcases serve as an end table while matching a floral rug and dark cobalt walls. Shelves near the seating area provide an opportunity to display travel souvenirs like prints, decorative boxes, and figurines.

Surfing Inspiration

Chad R. Mellon

Add a nod to the beach without displaying shells or pictures of the coast. Instead, hang a surfboard patterned with typography for a sunny, ocean vibe that upgrades a blank wall. Pair with a wood vanity and blue bathroom floor tiles for a casual coastal aesthetic.

Photo Wall Treatment

A repeating pattern of coastal photos creates a bold but still neutral wallpaper in this bedroom. Customize walls with your own photos, or find a print that features professional photos from a dream destination. Pair with a blue painted ceiling and geometric light fixture to turn the room into a beachy paradise.

Coastal Travel Decor

Bring the beach to a small area of your home. In this room, seashells and starfish are displayed alongside ceramics featuring shades of blue. The seaside collection and cool colors help bring a coastal feel to a section of the room where dishes and serving platters are stored.

DIY Nightstand

CARSON DOWNING

Vintage suitcases take on a new function with this DIY bedroom decor. Stack three on top of each other to create just the right height for a nightstand next to the bed . Pair with a lampshade patterned with a map of the country to really highlight a travel theme.

Tropical Decor

Carson Downing

Large-scale botanical wallpaper creates a tropical aesthetic in this bedroom. The print complements green painted flooring and a leafy bedspread. Natural accents, including a woven leather headboard and rattan side table, make this room feel like a tropical destination.

Decorate with Globes

Kritsada Panichgul.

Go all-out with travel decor with a shelf full of globes. Here, the globes feature similar colors and are grouped by size for a cohesive look. Instead of buying new globes, shop secondhand or thrift stores for vintage varieties.

Dining Room Souvenir Display

Several decor items work together to create travel-inspired style in this dining room . A large print of a beach scene provides seaside inspiration, while a large shell and a piece of driftwood act as centerpieces for the table and credenza. A pendant light with natural fibers completes the look.

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The Girl Who Goes

independent, intentional travel

Last Updated on September 1, 2023

How I Created My Travel Gallery Wall

Hi, it’s me, your travel blogger friend who left her glamorous, frivolous life in Spain to settle back into the typical patterns of everyday American society for the past 10 months. (Thanks, COVID.) While our next adventures seem to be creeping closer, little by little, I’ve had some time to work on other projects that I’ve enjoyed. And one of them was decorating my very own office!

When our roommates moved out at the end of January, Matt and I finally got to move into our own home offices. I’ve never had an office before! I spent way too long planning out how I wanted it to look, browsing Etsy and Facebook Marketplace for things that would make it feel cozy and also remind me of my former life. And thus, I decided on a travel-themed Gallery Wall.

I thought it would be fun to share the process with everyone, in case you’re interested in trying something similar! (And if you’re looking for some inspiration for your wall, check out these travel quotes .)

Art Curation

I’ve never attempted something like this before, so I did quite a lot of research first on how to create a good gallery wall. One of the things I consistently read: You shouldn’t just go out and buy a bunch of art for the sake of the gallery. Some online sites even sell pre-made gallery art sets. But the best gallery walls have a lot of character specific to the person who designs them. Each piece tells a story.

Luckily, I already had a lot of travel-themed posters, maps, and art in other mediums that had been sitting in a box in the closet since I got home from Spain. I did search Etsy for other travel prints that felt special to me to make my gallery a little more well-rounded. Plus, it’s important to have a good variety of size, as well as vertical or horizontal orientation. That gives it more visual interest. But apart from that, the majority of my art was already mine — things I’d been collecting for years.

Here are a few of those pieces and their stories:

London/Notting Hill Poster

When I moved into my apartment in Spain, there was a single, empty poster frame hanging above my bed. As I gradually furnished my bedroom, I kept an eye out for something I could put in it — something that would help tie the room together and make it feel like home. I found this poster of Notting Hill in London (another place that’s very special to me), and it fit the poster frame almost perfectly. I knew it had to be part of my gallery wall!

German Map of Spain

I came across this old map of Spain at a market in Berlin when I visited in 2019. It’s from 1906, and it only cost €8! I had to buy it. The hardest part was trying to protect it from the rain and ensure it didn’t get all bent up in my backpack I was carrying, because it’s really fragile.

Homemade “Wanderlust” Canvas

In 2017 when my Italian sister Gaia was with us for Christmas, she made me this as a gift. We both love to travel, and that’s something that really connects us. This came to Spain with me, and I love it!

Madrid Arrow Sign

I bought a few of these signs at the Rastro market in Madrid for my family and for Matt. But I also bought myself one, because unfortunately I figured there would eventually come a day when I was away from Madrid. (Though I didn’t know it would be so soon. ☹)

A few of my art pieces are postcards from places I’ve been, and some were downloaded from Etsy. For those, it was as easy as taking the file to FedEx and having them print it for me on nicer, sturdier paper. It was cheap, too!

And three of my art pieces aren’t made of paper, but I knew I wanted them to be part of the gallery wall as well because they fit the theme. Plus, it gives the whole thing more visual interest/variety.

Most gallery walls have art in frames. As my gallery ended up with 18 pieces of art — 15 of which needed frames — that’s a lot of frames to buy!

A nice frame at Target will set you back around $13… and that’s for a relatively small one! It can really add up quickly. So I bought all of my frames (except one) at the thrift stores near me. I found most of them at Savers and Goodwill. Most of the small/medium frames were less than $3. Some of the larger ones were around $4-$8, but I didn’t need too many of those. In total, I probably spent about $50 on frames.

You can decide whether you want to have all your frames the same color or colors, or whether you want to mix it up. I decided I wanted a more eclectic mix, so I have frames of almost every color and style.

Before going to the thrift store, it helps if you have a general idea of how large you need your frames to be. I took measurements of all of my art pieces, so I knew I needed two 11×14 frames, three 5×7 frames, etc.

For some of the pieces that have more unique sizes, I measured them with the goal of finding frames that matched their proportions. The cheap 20×28″ poster frame I got from Joann was a decent fit for my 18×25″ poster of London, with a 2-3 inch border around the sides. I bought some large pieces of white cardstock/poster board to use as a background for several of my pieces. I trimmed it to the right size for the frame, taped my art to it, and then framed the whole thing — which now has a clean, even white border.

At the thrift store, a lot of the larger frames are in the “wall art” section rather than with picture frames. As these are meant to be purchased and hung as-is, it’s hard to know how big they are because they don’t list their frame size. So, I recommend bringing a tape measure with you! If I saw a somewhat-promising frame, I would whip out the tape measure and find out whether it was good fit for one of my pieces. The people at the store might have thought I was weird, but it all worked out in the end for me. 🙂

It took me about three or four trips to gather all the frames I needed, and it took varying levels of work in order to “open” the frames and replace the art. I don’t recommend doing this all in one night because it can be frustrating. Definitely be sure you have some tools on hand (needle-nose pliers were the real MVP) to help remove any metal that holds the back of the frame together.

Making a Template

It might be very tempting to skip this step. Because it’s also a lot of work, and it’s time consuming. BUT, I attribute this step to the overall success of my gallery wall’s design.

Get a roll of white paper — or you can use newspaper. Whatever kind of paper that is big enough for your largest pieces of art is fine. But, once all your art is framed, lay it over your big pieces of paper, trace it, and cut it out. Then, label it with something that will help you know what piece of art it is. “Denali Moose,” for example. After you’ve done it for all your frames, you should have a bunch of pieces of paper that are the same size as your frames.

Now, you can use painter’s tape to tape your these template pieces on the wall and play around with your layout. I started by measuring to find the midpoint of my wall. Then, I placed a piece of painter’s tape vertically to mark it. I started by taping my largest template piece on one side of it. Then, I kept building with additional template pieces around it, trying to keep it even on both sides.

Making a template on the actual wall is so much easier than using the real frames on the floor and trying to translate that to the wall. You don’t have to worry about making a mistake when it comes to hanging, either, because the templates are also useful in that regard!

Hanging the Art

While you could do this with nails, many of the frames I used didn’t have sawtooth hangers or any hangers whatsoever. Plus, I didn’t want to put nearly 20 holes in the wall. Especially because I still wasn’t sure how/if this was going to turn out. Instead, I bought a ton of large Command Strips from Target (probably about $40 total, but I didn’t use all of them on this project).

Bonus: the pack of command strips I bought came with a mini level , which was way easier than trying to use the heavy 3-foot level we have in our basement. I also used this level to help me when I was putting up my template pieces to make sure they were relatively straight.

So, now it’s time to hang your art! Instead of taking the template pieces down, leave them up and replace only one piece at a time with your real art. Again, I started with my biggest piece. When I took down that template piece, it was obvious to me where my poster needed to go. I put the command strips on the back of the frame and removed the sticky backing. And put the poster up where the template piece had been, using my mini level.

And I just did this one by one until all the frames were up and all the paper templates were on the ground. (Even though I was still missing a few pieces of art, I went ahead and put all the frames up.)

I would step back every once in a while to see how it was looking. I think I only needed to make one adjustment based on one of the pieces looking a little crooked, but the level helped and the template obviously did, too! Everything went up without a hitch.

In the end, I’m really happy with how it turned out! While stumbling into my office each morning with my coffee and sitting down for work isn’t as exciting as my two years in Spain… it sure beats when I was in lockdown in my apartment bedroom during the first few months of the pandemic last spring. Turns out, sitting on your bed with a small lap desk from IKEA isn’t the most comfortable workspace… but I try to leave that in the past 😉

Have you ever tried something like a gallery wall? Or, how do you bring travel into your living spaces? Let me know in the comments!

–Cathy

Originally Published on April 24, 2021.

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19 Accent Wall Ideas That Wow

By Sarah Lyon

All products featured on Architectural Digest are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

If you’re looking to create an instant focal point in any room of the house, consider incorporating one of these accent wall ideas into your space. No matter your interior design style , an accent wall is bound to liven up your home, whether you choose to execute yours using wallpaper , framed art , paint, paneling, or another medium entirely. The best part is that you can work an accent wall—which is oftentimes referred to as a feature wall—into any room you’d like. Why not bring some bright colors into the home office or try a bedroom accent wall in lieu of a standard headboard?

Below, you will find 19 stylish accent wall ideas that are full of visual interest and will inspire you to do something about at least one of those blank white walls that have been bothering you for months and could use a little DIY love. You’ll also find budget-friendly tips on how to execute a great accent wall and learn more about why it’s so key for making a bold statement.

1. Hang an eclectic gallery wall

Don’t be afraid to vary picture-hanging techniques when installing a gallery wall. Here, some lean on a ledge toward the bottom of the wall.

Nicole Arruda, the founder of Nicole Alexandra Design in New York City, installed an accent wall on the lower level of this Summit, New Jersey, home. “This long hallway was the perfect opportunity to bring in some interest,” Arruda says. “It leads to the office, so incorporating pieces that tied in to my client’s work just felt right.” To make the gallery wall appear fresh, Arruda chose to incorporate a wide range of frame options, alternated the ways in which she hung frames on the wall, and included a mix of small and large scale works. “The finishing touch was the picture lights, which provide function for a dark hallway while highlighting this accent wall perfectly,” the designer adds. “This is a great way to really make your art pop!”

2. Get clever with molding

Molding will make a major statement in any room of the home, and continuing it up to the ceiling is even more impactful, as this bedroom illustrates.

Kevin Francis O’Gara, the founder of Atlanta-based Kevin Francis Design , added major visual interest to this primary bedroom in his home city by making use of molding while establishing a cohesive color scheme. “I carried the dark brown paint color onto the ceiling trim to accentuate the molding and create a cocoon effect around the bed,” O’Gara explains. “The room itself is fairly long; By emphasizing this architectural detail, I created a focal point, anchoring the side of the room where the bed is positioned.” Sconces from Visual Comfort hang on either side of the bed and contribute to the room’s industrial feel.

3. Make your wall both fun and functional

The wine lovers who call this space home surely appreciate the approach Lisa Gilmore took to designing their accent wall.

There’s no rule saying that accent walls can’t be equal parts pretty and practical. Why not think a bit outside the box when it comes to decor ideas? In this downtown St. Petersburg, Florida, residence, area designer Lisa Gilmore, the founder of Lisa Gilmore Design , jazzed up a wall appropriately located adjacent to the home’s wine lounge with bottles aplenty. “This home’s energy was centered around art and entertaining,” she shares. “We chose to color block throughout the space to have that high energy throughout.”

4. Spice up the home office with a mural

Given that you spend a large portion of the day working from your home office, you deserve to at least appreciate the view. Incorporate a mural like this one to brighten up your 9-to-5 hours.

By David Sokol

By Chelsea Hodson

By Sarah Archer

In a home office also located in St. Petersburg, Gilmore commissioned a hand-painted mural by local artist Chad Mize. “We originally had a cool wallpaper mural planned for this wall, but due to the scale, desk height, and window locations, it wasn't going to work out,” the designer explains. She drew upon Mize, who put his own artistic spin on the original concept, which Gilmore and her client fell in love with right away. She adds, “The home office is now full of positive energy and the happiness of waterfront living.”

5. Create a focal point in the powder bathroom

Even the powder bathroom deserves some attention. Here, a mirrored technique is extra elegant-looking.

We often see accent walls in the living room or bedroom, but they can shine in any room of the home, including the powder bath . In the same St. Petersburg home highlighted above, Gilmore designed a back wall using large format antique mirror glass. “The space is very small, so we wanted to have a big impact without being too overwhelming,” she says.

6. Make a statement with board and batten in the entryway

Board and batten is a tried and true accent wall approach that continues to remain popular in all types of homes.

In a Port Washington, New York, home’s two-story foyer, Danielle Chiprut, the founder of Rockville Centre, New York-based Danielle Rose Design Co. , formed an accent wall using board and batten molding. “Our intention was to highlight the room's impressive height and create a warm, inviting entryway,” she says.

7. Say hello to a stone wall

Stone warms up any space instantly and pays a nod to rustic style.

In a Jones, Oklahoma, living room, Kelsey Leigh McGregor of Kelsey Leigh Design Co. chose to incorporate a stone accent wall. “We really wanted to bring texture into this space and make a new home feel older,” the Edmond, Oklahoma–based designer explains. “Adding a stone wall in the living room was the obvious choice to accomplish this, plus it was the perfect way to highlight a rustic modern style.”

8. Implement a curved design

Rather than ordering wall molding, Haneen Matt took on a DIY project in her primary bathroom, designing the curved detailing you see here.

In her own Canton, Michigan, home, Haneen Matt, the founder of Haneen’s Haven , gave her primary bathroom a luxurious looking makeover, creating a 19th-century-inspired accent wall behind her tub. Inspired by molding she spotted on eBay, Matt opted to go the DIY route, working with her contractor to create the arched structure shown here. A top ledge is perfect for leaning art, displaying candlesticks, and the like.

9. Try a two-tone look

Accent walls are for kids’ and adults’ spaces alike. A two-toned effect fits into a teen’s room perfectly.

Fiona Leonard, the founder of Fiona Leonard Interiors in Darien, Connecticut, opted to create a two-toned accent wall consisting of Benjamin Moore Van Deusen Blue and Benjamin Moore Edgecomb Gray in a teenage boy’s room in Weston, Connecticut. “We wanted to add a deep rich color but the client didn’t want the room to feel too dark,” she says, explaining the goal was to create a more mature looking room design.

10. Camouflage closets creatively

Looking to hide an unsightly closet? Take a cue from Michelle Gage, who did just that with wood tambour walls in a client’s office space.

When working with a client who wished to hide the two builder grade closets in his Philadelphia home office, Michelle Gage “devised a plan to make them nearly invisible,” by installing walnut wood tambour walls. The closets are still functional, explains the founder of Michelle Gage Interior Design in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania—but they’re so much more chic.

11. Select a wall mural for behind the bed

Wall murals are oftentimes more affordable than wallpaper and take less time to install, making them a win-win.

Natalie Papier, the founder of Home EC. , created a DIY accent wall in her own Charlotte, North Carolina, primary suite using a mural from Fine & Dandy Co. “Because this bedroom had a recessed wall for the bed placement, it felt like an opportunity to make this nook a focal point in the bedroom,” she says.

12. Use bright colors and plants to breathe life into any space

Bright colors paired with plants ensure you’ll start the day on a positive foot.

When designing a pilates studio in Carson, California, Julia Newman, the founder of LA’s Julia Adele Design , opted to paint the area over the storage cubbies in Benjamin Moore’s Blue Spa . Due to the nature of the space, “I wanted an energizing color, something that was invigorating and brought a good energy and vibe,” she says. A variety of green friends exude additional life.

13. Display a collection of baskets

Now is the time to showcase that collection of baskets you’ve kept tucked away. Hang them on the wall and you’ll have an instant conversation starter.

Diane Rath went 3D with a mix of vintage and contemporary collected African and Moroccan woven baskets and bowls, which shine on one of the walls of her pool house in Fairfield, Connecticut. The founder of the Rath Project says, “I wanted to heighten the texture of the white-painted, unfinished walls while adding some color.” Plus, Rath adds, it was imperative to evoke a “very casual and organic vibe—very much the feeling I want everyone to experience when lounging and swimming on a summer’s day.”

14. Opt for wood paneling in a bold color

Rebecca Plumb opted for a chevron design to mimic the shape of the mountains nearby this South Lake Tahoe, California, home.

Rebecca Plumb, the founder of Studio Plumb in Sacramento, California, incorporated a brightly colored accent wall made from wood paneling into the primary bedroom of a South Lake Tahoe, California, home. “To echo the shape of the mountains and add movement, we installed tongue-and-groove boards in an oversized chevron pattern and painted it a vivid, nostalgic green,” Plumb says. The homeowner, who is an artist and illustrator, actually hand-painted the rowing oars that hang on the wall.

15. Add visual interest to a gallery wall with unexpected finds

Gallery walls aren’t just for traditional art—go ahead and display trinkets that are just begging for attention, as the team at Mackenzie Collier Interiors did in this Phoenix home.

The team at Mackenzie Collier Interiors in Phoenix hung a colorful gallery wall in a transitional area between the living room and kitchen. The wall consists of more than just standard artwork—you may spot a bright orange clock and vintage motorcycle license plate, for example. “The frames selected are different colors and sizes to add a curated and collected touch to the space,” explains senior designer Yoselin Castro.

16. Repurpose antique frames

If gold antique frames don’t suit your space, spray-paint them using bright lacquer.

This accent wall is situated at the end of a long hallway in a Raleigh, North Carolina, home and features some of designer Liz Goldberg’s clients’ many maps from their travels. She framed the wall art in various antique decorative frames, each of which had been lacquered in a hue present elsewhere throughout the home. “We loved the juxtaposition of the vintage frames in unexpected, saturated, and modern colors,” reflects Goldberg, the founder of Carolynleona . This is an approach that’s equal parts budget-friendly and full of personality.

17. Try your hand at a DIY floral mural

Florals will add charm to any space an instant, as demonstrated in this Arizona guest bedroom.

Bari Ackerman, the founder of Bari J. Designs in Charlotte, North Carolina, hand-painted this floral mural freehand in a Scottsdale, Arizona, guest bedroom. “It had previously been a big chalk board wall with florals I’d drawn on it,” she says of the DIY. “I erased my original art and loved the smeared look of the chalkboard paint, so I left it underneath the new painted scene.”

18. Go bold with black

Keep in mind that accent walls look wonderful in bold spaces as well as neutral rooms.

Dara Beitler, the founder of Dara Beitler Interiors in Potomac, Maryland, says that she worked alongside the builder to install a feature wall to add depth, height, and symmetry to the dining room of a Kensington, Maryland, home. The wall is coated in a saturated version of Sherwin-Williams Tricorn Black and serves as the focal point of the space.

19) Look to your backsplash for inspiration

Moroccan zellige tile from Zia Tile adds pizzazz to this powder bath.

In the powder room of an Olney, Maryland, home, Beitler covered one wall with a a popular backsplash material: a stunning blue-green Moroccan zellige tile by Zia Tile . “The clients expressed an interest in including handmade materials to enhance authenticity, color, and texture to the space,” she says.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to design your own accent wall? Consider these common questions.

Can you DIY an accent wall?

As these accent wall ideas prove, it is entirely possible to design a DIY accent wall, whether you chose to do so with paint, by hanging a gallery wall of art pieces, by installing a peel-and-stick geometric wallpaper mural, applying paneling, or taking another route.

Can you incorporate an accent wall into a small space?

As you can tell by the array of accent wall ideas above, you can certainly include an accent wall in a small space or room for an eye-catching surprise. Accent walls will add instant personality to a powder room, petite apartment living room, and many other spaces short on square footage. A small space is an excellent opportunity to try a bedroom accent wall that mimics the effects of a headboard, for example.

Do accent walls complement all aesthetics?

Accent walls will shine in any type of home, regardless of one’s home decor style. That said, they are more often seen in vibrant, eclectic spaces and appear less often in minimalist homes . Accent walls generally serve to provide a pop of color within a room, according to interior design experts, so don’t shy away from paint colors that make a bold statement.

What is the rule for accent walls?

Home design pros say that when incorporating an accent wall, “Do it with intention or don’t do it at all,” Lisa Gilmore says. This means really focusing on amping up a room’s visual interest. “When it comes to creating an accent wall, my rule is to make a statement,” Danielle Chiprut adds. “I recommend going big and bold. It’s your opportunity to express your personality in your home and create a stunning focal point.”

Are accent walls in style in 2023?

Accent walls are still having a moment this year, designers say. The key is to keep your personal interior design preferences top of mind. “Accent walls will always be in style as long as it feels authentic to you and your design style,” Chiprut says. “It’s about how you incorporate them into your home.”

How do you make an accent wall cheap?

Paint is an affordable option when it comes to accent wall design. “The cheapest way to add depth to a room or emphasize the focal point in the space is to choose a complementary paint color and buy a sample pot of paint,” Kevin O’Gara explains. “Usually this is enough to cover one wall!”

Are two accent walls too much?

The number of accent walls in your home is less important than whether or not the walls you design suit your space. “As long as your accent walls are complementary to your existing decor, I don’t see any reason why there should be a limit on the number of accent walls in a house,” O’Gara says. That said, he advises sticking to just one per room. “Think of it like styling an outfit,” adds Gilmore. “You’re not going to wear all your jewelry in your jewelry box, but you will have a focal piece with some supporting pieces to finish the look.”

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33 Feature Wall Ideas for a Stunning Focal Point

The Spruce / Christopher Lee Foto

The best feature wall ideas can upgrade any room in the house without a total makeover. You can create a feature wall by highlighting original architectural elements in an older home, such as stone, brick, or intricate millwork . Or you can add character to a new build or rental apartment with paint, wallpaper, textured wall finishes, or large-scale art, to name a few options.

Feature walls work in any space in your home including the bedroom, bathroom, living room, kids room, or home office.

Check out these 35 feature wall ideas for turning blank walls into feature walls that will make your home and your life more alive and exciting.

Style a Wallpapered Entry Wall

Design by Caroline Andreoni Interior Design / Photo by Sophie Lloyd

One way to define the entryway in a semi-open space is by adding a feature wall that gives it pride of place while adding a decorative element. In this French apartment from Paris-based Caroline Andréoni Interior Design , a shoe bench with built-in storage is anchored by a wallpaper feature wall that adds color and pattern.

Try Board and Batten

Design by Living with Lolo / Photo by Life Created

A pastel pink board and batten feature wall adds softness to this primary bedroom from Living with Lolo that is decorated in shades of pink, white, and blue.

Design a Patterned Bathroom Accent

Design by Caroline Brackett Studio of Design / Ariana Clare Photography

If the bathtub is the centerpiece of your bathroom, why not add a feature wall behind it to make sure everyone knows it. In this spacious bathroom from Caroline Brackett Studio of Design , printed wallpaper in shades of blue, green, and cream highlights the shape of the room and makes the bathtub a destination.

Preserve Original Features

Design by Forge and Bow Dwellings / Christa Tippmann Photography

If your home has original architectural features like brick or stone, giving them some love and preserving a piece of your home's history will create a natural feature wall with a sense of place. In this galley-style kitchen from Forge and Bow Dwellings , the brick lends character to the kitchen fitted with modern cabinets and shiny backsplash tiles.

Add Wallpaper in the Bedroom

Not to be outdone by the striking blue coffered ceilings, this primary bedroom from Living with Lolo includes a bold wall of blue-and-white patterned wallpaper that adds a bit of attitude to a room furnished with neutrals and perfectly symmetrical nightstands and bedside lamps.

Create a Mirrored Feature Wall

Brexton Cole Interiors

Brexton Cole Interiors added layers of decor to create a fireplace feature wall that blends in with the soft and subtle tones of this serene living room. The far wall has a traditional fireplace with a creamy painted surround and stacked art of varying heights leaning on the mantel.

Wallpaper in a leafy pattern that echoes the sage green velvet sofas flanks each side, and a pair of mirrors reflects views and light.

Use Bright Wallpaper in the Nursery

Design by Curated Nest Interiors / Photo by Erin Coren

There's nothing like some bright wallpaper to cheer up a space. In this light-flooded nursery from Curated Nest Interiors , an abstract large-scale floral wallpaper feature wall in bright pink and red adds warmth and vibrancy behind the crib.

Put Up Tropical Wallpaper in the Basement

Louis Duncan-He Designs / Eymeric Wilding Photography

Louis Duncan-He Designs hung colorful, tropical-themed wallpaper to create a long striking feature wall in this glamorous basement bar and lounge space.

Define the Sleeping Area With Board and Battan

Design by Urbanology Designs / Matti Gresham Photography

In place of a headboard, this spacious primary bedroom from Urbanology Designs includes a modern matte black painted board and batten-style feature wall that runs two-thirds of the way up and the full width of the wall behind the bed. A small framed piece of art mounted above the bed straddles both finishes to bring the look together.

Hang an Organic Mirror and Abstract Wallpaper

Alvin Wayne Interiors

The wall at the end of a hallway is an often neglected space. This hallway wall from interior designer Alvin Wayne becomes a focal point thanks to a black-and-white abstract marble patterned wallpaper feature wall layered with an organic shaped mirror that reflects light and views.

Create a 3D Effect With Wall Panels

Michelle Boudreau Design

In this Palm Springs bedroom from Michelle Boudreau Design , the feature wall behind the bed is covered in paintable wall panels with a 3D effect. You can find paintable wall panels in a multitude of patterns and many are made from sustainable materials such as bamboo fibers, a bonus.

Make It Multifunctional

Laura Brophy Interiors

This feature wall from Laura Brophy Interiors does double duty as wine storage and decor. Carved into unused wall space at the foot of the staircase, it's lit from within to highlight the owners' wine collection.

Rough It Up

In this New York City living room from interior designer Alvin Wayne , a rough and textural concrete-effect gray feature wall gives the eye something other than the TV to focus on when it's not in use and adds contrast against carved wood console.

Carve It Out

Caroline Andréoni Interior Design installed a sophisticated feature wall in this Parisian bedroom that adds texture and dimension and maximizes the tall ceiling height.

Construct Built-In Shelving

Design by Jessica Davis of Atelier Davis / Photo by Heidi Harris

Interior designer Jessica Davis of Atelier Davis anchored the design of this midcentury modern-inspired living room with a striking medium-toned wood feature wall that includes hidden storage and open shelving to display objects, art, and books.

Go Wall to Wall

Design by Leanne Ford Interiors / Photo by Reid Rolls

Leanne Ford Interiors created a custom-tiered full-wall fireplace feature covered in a concrete skim coat in this neutral-toned living room that adds a memorable flourish.

Wallpaper Underneath the Staircase

Design by Desiree Burns Interiors

A feature wall doesn't have to be the main wall behind a bed or the largest wall in the living or dining room. In this spacious living room from Desiree Burns Interiors , the blank wall beneath the staircase is brought to life with an energizing patterned wallpaper that anchors a curvy console table and striking gold lamp.

Highlight Whimsical Art

Louis Duncan-He Designs / Genevieve Renee Photography

Louis Duncan-He Designs added whimsical wall art in arched frames in a palette of blues to create an eye-catching fireplace feature wall in this modern living room.

Turn Your Books Around

Design by Urbanology Designs / Photo by Matti Gresham Photography

Adding vertical and horizontal stacks of books like this adult loft bed space from Urbanology Designs that is visible from the living and dining areas below is a perfectly legitimate way to hold onto your book collection while quieting visual chaos.

Send a Message

Curated Nest Interiors

Curated Nest Interiors created a colorful kids room feature wall by hanging fun illustrated bookshelf-themed wallpaper that looks cute and celebrates the joy of reading.

Go Grayscale

Design by Louis Duncan-He Designs / Photo by Eymeric Wilding Photography

Louis Duncan-He Designs created a tonal feature wall with grayscale watercolor landscape wallpaper and an upholstered velvet headboard that is nearly as wide as the wall itself. Simple white sheets and two shades of green velvet throw pillows add a hint of color that complements the soothing neutral scheme.

Add a Map Mural

Design by Tyler Karu Design and Interiors / Photo by Justin Levesque

In this Maine condo bedroom, Tyler Karu Design and Interiors took advantage of the extra-tall ceilings to hang a custom 14-foot mural of an 18th-century map of the Maine coast that makes a place-appropriate feature of the wall behind the bed.

Make The Feature Wall Opposite of the Bed

Design by Caroline Andréoni Interior Design / Photo by Sophie Lloyd

While many designers choose to make a feature wall behind the bed, Caroline Andréoni Interior Design took an opposite approach in this spacious Parisian en suite bedroom by plastering the wall opposite the bed in black-and-white palm print wallpaper. The wallpaper can be enjoyed from the bed, and the black tones of the wallpaper help to camouflage the flat-screen TV, always a bonus.

Frame a Window

Warm medium-toned gray paint highlights the central window in this primary bedroom from Curated Nest Interiors , grounding the pale neutral space and making the room with its high-pitched ceilings and acres of white paint feel cozier and more down to earth.

Create a Wall Within a Wall

Urbanology Designs created a mini feature wall in the blank space between the windows of this primary bedroom using floor-to-ceiling wood slats that add texture and warmth and create contrast with the modern upholstered headboard and furnishings.

Hang Framed Wallpaper Panels

Design by Louis Duncan-He Designs / Eymeric Wilding Photography

Louis Duncan-He Designs hung panels of traditional blue wallpaper covered with branches, leaves, flowers, and birds that are framed with wood wall detailing that helps the wall to blend in with the rest of the room.

Keep It Light and Bright in Color

Living with Lolo hung black and white wallpaper with a hand-drawn pattern that looks like a blown up page from an artist's sketch book to create a feature wall in this light and airy primary bedroom.

Highlight Your Collection

Louis Duncan-He Designs created a double feature wall on either side of the fireplace with black and white paint and open shelving to create a showcase for the clients' vinyl collection, making the central fireplace just one part of the equation rather than the main event.

Infuse Contrast With an Accent Wall

A deep, dark forest green painted accent wall adds contrast to this pale neutral-toned bedroom from Living with Lolo .

Build a Fireplace Wall

Design by Maestri Studio / Photo by Nathan Schroder

The monumental fireplace wall in this living room from Maestri Studio is a midcentury throwback with modern appeal.

Add a Mural

An airy large-scale pink wall mural in this Parisian kid's room from Caroline Andréoni Interior Design adds a poetic touch that is framed by traditional painted moldings and millwork.

Use Pattern Wallpaper on Slanted Walls

Design by Austin Gray Design Group / Photo by Lara Kimmerer

Austin Gray Design Group made a feature of the slanted wall in this top-floor space by adding patterned wallpaper on the angled surface and saturated blue wall paint on the ceilings and window surrounds.

Try Faux Greenery

A Beautiful Mess

This DIY faux living feature wall from A Beautiful Mess brings the outdoors in, adding feel-good energy to a home office space with no maintenance required.

Yes, a feature wall is truly a timeless design element. Feature walls add extra interest and personality to any space.

As a rule of thumb, the feature wall should coincide with the area where your eye is first drawn to within a room.

There are various ways to make a feature wall on a budget. For starters, simply painting the wall in question is one awesome way to create a feature wall while being cost-effective. Other options include using wallpaper and wall tiles.

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Related blog posts: – LITTLE GIRLS BEDROOM – SOPHISTICATED LITTLE GIRLS BEDROOM REFRESH

All products featured in this post are in my Amazon Store! I’ve been casually thinking about how to spruce up my daughters room for over 6 months now. I love the impact a feature wall can bring to a space but nothing I could think of really jumped out at me until a few weeks ago!

I came across this wallpaper from A-Street Prints and fell in love with the subtle texture and neutral but playful color. I knew I wanted to use it… but then comes the question of how. The full room? Trim halfway up and wallpaper the top? One full wall? Just the ceiling? The possibilities of how to use wallpaper as a statement are endless.

Originally, I thought I would do box molding as I talked about in this post . Once I started laying out the dimensions, I ultimately ended up using 1×4 trim and cove moulding to create dimension and a little interest. I couldn’t be happier with how it turned out and am here to give you a step by step of how I did it!

Where we started…

This was my son’s nursery and I had some really cute peel and stick vinyl wallpaper complimented with a soft grey-green. Note: I chose not to paint over this before starting because this wallpaper was very thick, but I would check to see if anything would show through before deciding not to paint.

Deciding Where to Start.

My recommendation is to start in the center of the wall if you are doing a single feature wall. If you were wallpapering an entire room, you would want to start in an inconspicuous corner.

I found the middle of the wall and made plum lines where the edges of the first piece of wallpaper would hit. This will serve as a guide to make sure your first piece is completely straight. All your other pieces will line up based on this first strip, so make sure it’s straight!

This wallpaper is unpasted so you will need a wallpaper adhesive to apply to the wall. I’ll include a full list of supplies in my Amazon shop ! Some wallpaper will come pasted so make sure and check which kind of wallpaper you buy. I will also note that this wallpaper has the most beautiful texture which really added to the final result. This was by far one of the best quality wallpapers I have ever used.

I used a 3/8″ nap roller to roll it on the wall… being careful to only apply it to the area where the strip would go. The instructions called for it to only be applied to the wall, but I chose to apply it to both the wall and the back of the paper. I found the paper to slide better and allow me to get perfect seams. The edges of the paper are very important to make sure you have enough adhesive on!

You can also use a brush for tight areas or along eges.

I use a large framing square to make all of my cuts. If you have a big table, you can use a utility knife. I found that making a clean pencil mark and using scissors worked just fine.

This post is specifically showing how to wallpaper a feature wall with trim – so it was not necessary to have exact edges. I knew there would be trim covering those areas. I also skipped an inch (see below pic) strictly to save myself from having to open another roll. Trim would be covering it so it wasn’t a big deal but it does look a little funny here!

My trick for getting wallpaper to line up is to go from the seams and work down and out. The paste allows you to move it quite a bit before it dries. I can slide it around pretty easily until I get the seams lined up perfectly! I mainly use my hands to smooth it out and then will use a wallpaper brush to really get a firm adhesion.

I also take the time after each strip to take a very lightly damp rag and wipe off the seams as there is most likely glue that has escaped.

After the full wall received the wallpaper treatment, it was time for the trim! I used 1×4 select pine and started with the bottom and top. I used 12′ boards so I didn’t have to have a seam. I wanted to beef up the bottom so I used a piece of base cap to place on top of my trim before adding the 1×4. \ This trick will work regardless of the type of baseboard you have so that 3/4″ material will fit seamlessly against it!

I nailed each piece of trim in, trying to hit studs where I could. I used 2″ brad nails and a nail gun to make sure the nail went through the trim, drywall and potentially a stud.

At this point, you could paint and easily be done! I knew I wanted to add some dimension so I chose to add some cove moulding inside each box. First, I cut each piece to length, then I primed and painted each piece before installing since these pieces would fit tight against the wallpaper and I didn’t want to have to worry about painting the wallpaper!

I used DAP wood filler on all the seams and nail holes… sanding the seams smooth after it dried. I also caulked any corner as well as the space between the trim and wall with paintable latex caulk.

The cove moulding adds such a nice touch doesn’t it?

Almost done! I had a color matched to the wallpaper that was a paint and primer in one and painted all the trim, including the baseboard.

I really love this brush for trimwork!

This wall is full of character and I couldn’t be happier with how it transformed this room!

I already had most of the furnishings so I just brought everything back into the room and hung these new sconces right on the trim (Yes, this was planned!)

What do you think? Would you tackle a feature wall like this? Stay tuned for some finishing touches on the rest of her room!

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Beautiful Room, but Wow! Doing a project is one thing, and then photographing, documenting, linking info, and posting about it!… You are a whole other level of Amazing!! Love the trim work brush you linked! New tool for me to buy! Thank you for such great information!!

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How To Create The Ultimate Feature Wall

Looking to create the ultimate feature wall in your home?

Well, a feature wall, also known as an accent wall , is an interior wall that stands out from the other walls in the room by design.

This wall adds personality, interest, and energy to any room, through color, texture, and contrast.

Thanks to its uniqueness, a feature wall can largely impact the look and feel of any space, thus, its significant visual impact.

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While painting all your walls in one color can be very unifying, it can get boring, especially if your walls are plain and blank.

Thus, by identifying one wall and giving it a whole different look, you can change the mood and personality of a room.

If you’re convinced about making such a statement in your interiors, it’s time to create a feature wall.

RadDadBuilds created this feature wall. Check out the step-by-step DIY video tutorial here . 

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In this article, we explore some quick dos and don’ts of creating a feature wall, as well as amazing feature wall ideas to employ around your home.

Here is what to keep in mind:

1. Choose A Wall With No Obstruction

The wall you choose needs to be large enough to take the color or the effect that you’ve chosen.

This wall should be in an ideal location, preferably, away from any obstructions. This ensures that your eye is first drawn up to this wall when you enter the room.

Also, it’s wise to pick a wall with no doors or windows if it really has to stand out.

You also want to strategically place the furniture to avoid obscuring the wall with too many items– the aim of a feature wall is to guide the eye towards a room’s best assets and design features without overwhelming.

2. Highlight Your Focal Point

Allowing your feature wall to stand out is key.

Then again, do not randomly select a wall to highlight, even if it has no obstructions.

The feature wall should be used to highlight the room’s existing focal point. This could mean an Insta-worthy dining area, a majestic headboard in the bedroom, or the wall where the TV is.

Consider using dark paint to create a strong feature wall that creates a perfect backdrop for special possessions. 

The point is that the eye should be drawn to one spot and if the feature wall is anywhere other than the focal area, the eye will not have a place to rest. Instead, you will be distracted by the much going on.

Pro tip: Before deciding what should be your accent wall, look at the architectural elements of your home. Got a fireplace? Then you already have a feature wall. Just dress it up and you’ll be good to go!

Draw attention to an existing focal point through color, paneling, artistic stonework or even, built-in shelves and bookcases.

Ideally, let the architecture of the room be your guide.

3. Think Bold Colors

When choosing a feature wall color, consider the rest of the room and the impact you want to have on the space.

Normally, most rooms are painted in a neutral color. And since a feature wall should stand out from the rest of the walls around the room, you want to be brave with your color choices. This can be a bold paint color or wallpaper too.

A strong contrasting shade would inject so much energy and depth to the room.

However, if you’re a maximalist and already have your walls painted brightly, try a complementary color that is a few shades darker or lighter on the feature wall.

It’s important to remember that a feature wall doesn’t need to be overly bright or dramatically dark to have an impact. As a general rule, choose a slightly darker shade to the other walls to create a clear focus.

4. Compliment Your Colors

Ideally, you want to create a feature wall that stands out, thus, the bright color choices.

However, make sure that whatever color or pattern you choose for your feature wall complements the rest of the room to ensure the room is well tied together.

Your feature wall should work within the grander scheme of the room.

To ensure you achieve this, draw out two or three colours from the design that you can use elsewhere.

Either choose a fairly neutral color to use on the three remaining walls or the main background color for the accessories around the room.

For instance, in plain wallpaper. For instance, a few green throw pillows on the sofa would complement a mountain green feature wall.

It’s not a good idea to just go for bold colors just for the sake of bold.

5. Explore Materials

While paint and wallpaper are the most common ways of creating a feature wall, you don’t have to be limited to these choices alone.

You can also create feature walls out of tile, stunning stone, and reclaimed wood, just to name a few materials. Other alternatives include patterned paper, timber, brick, or pressed metal.

Board and batten is becoming more and more popular for both interior and exterior walls. 

You can also go for wall murals instead of wallpaper. Murals are easier to hang compared with regular wallpaper as they can be printed to your wall size, blown up, scaled-down, and customized as you prefer.

These will all create a dynamic feature wall that adds real personality and interest to your space.

You want to create a feature wall that makes a statement. Since feature walls are so bold, the room needs to breathe to ensure it doesn’t come off as constricting.

That’s why it’s advisable to steer away from creature feature walls in small rooms as they only make the room look smaller, thus, uncomfortable.

Also, if the room is crowded and has so much going on already, it can be confusing to the eye and create a sense of chaos. 

7. Accessorize Your Wall

Where you choose to create a feature wall depends on what you’re showcasing. It could be the existing focal point of the room.

However, some rooms have no existing focal points. The good news is that you can create your own focal points in such rooms, and one way to do this is by accessorizing the feature wall you just created.

While wallpaper stands out easily without accessorizing, it would be wise to decorate a painted wall.

Create a gallery wall by hanging photos, hats, decorative plates, or rattan baskets. You can also add a wall sconce, a statement piece of artwork, or a sunburst mirror.

The goal is to add detail to your wall, but remember to do it well enough to ensure your feature wall is not too busy and destructive.

You May Also Like: 15 Ideas of Decorating your Walls- No Repainting Necessary

Feature Wall Ideas To Try

1. go bold & solid.

Bold and solid paint choices are popular and make the perfect backdrop to more elaborate designs.

While you can just slap one bold color on an accent wall, create more drama by painting in stripes or circles.

2. Display Those Photos

A photo collage wall is a perfect way to create a feature wall without spending much. You can mix frame sizes to add interest to the walls

3. Or Some Fine China

Wondering what to do with your old Fina china sitting in the box? Create a unique feature wall. Decorate platters and china dishes of all shapes, sizes and colors can really pull of an artistic feature wall.

4. Add Dramatic Wallpaper

For a truly dramatic look, go for patterned wallpaper with a large scale design in contrasting colors.

Using wallpaper on a single wall is a fabulous way to create instant impact.

There are a lot of great patterns, bold colors, and textures of wallpaper that can really make a statement in a room.

Play around with strong patterns, colors, and textures or, if a subtle effect is more your style, choose neutral tones with a textured finish or a simple yet striking pattern such as damask or floral to add interest.

You May Also Like: 15 Creative Ways of Decorating with Wallpaper

5. Create A Feature Backsplash

You might be wondering where to add a feature wall in your kitchen, but your backsplash is there!

A simple, pared-back kitchen with a feature splashback will have an instant visual impact. It even works well in small spaces.

6. Accentuate Your Headboard

The best way to create a feature wall in your bedroom is by accentuating the wall behind the head of the bed.

This area is perfect for accentuating a statement or upholstered headboard, or beautiful bedding.

You can go as big and bold as you like without disturbing your line of sight with bright colors or busy patterns whilst relaxing in bed. 

You May Also Like: 15 Makeover Ideas to Transform your Bedroom

7. Intrigue!

Position an intriguing feature wall at the farthest point, particularly in the line of sight from the entrance. This invites you to into the room, luring you to explore further.

8. Extend Your Outdoors

A feature wall is a great way to bring the outdoors in, particularly, if you’re unsure about the exact choice of wall color to go for.

A good example would be using a dark green color on your feature wall to enhance an outdoor garden connection without overdoing it.

A blue feature wall would be a great choice for your space if you leave close to the beach and would want to bring the vibe inside.

9. Tie It To The Rest of the Room

When creating a feature wall, be prepared to swap in accessories to echo your new wall color to tie the palette together.

10. Go Multi-Colored!

Why stop at one shade when you can inject more colors to your feature wall?

Remember to keep things cohesive by picking the colors from different elements around the room-think the couch, throw pillows, or lamp. This creates a unifying effect that’s much desired.

Unless you have the skills to cut in a straight line, a painter’s tape is essential for not only achieving sharp, crisp lines but protecting trim or baseboard from paint splatter and paint bleeding when rolling walls.

Thus, be sure to invest in proper paint-blocking masking tape , which will ensure crisp edges to your paintwork.

11. Or Geometric!

A geometric print, when used on just one wall, creates a visually arresting feature wall. Be sure to not overwhelm the room by using geometry on all walls as it can make you feel like you’re living in a giant optical illusion.

12. Prints Are Amazing!

Have you tried showcasing something you love through prints? Use an oversized print! A leafy print would perfectly reflect nature.

13. Don’t Forget The Hallway

By design, the hallway links many parts of the house.

However, many homeowners have forgotten this area and some have left it blank and boring.

Spice things us a little by accenting one wall. And, consider the flow of color throughout the home as a whole to ensure the area doesn’t seem in isolation.

You May Also Like: 18 Creative Ways to Decorate your Entryway

14. Try A Feature Corner

You not only need a feature wall to add drama to your interiors, a feature corner can also stand-out beautifully, ensuring you enjoy the beauty of your wallpaper or bold paint from two different angles!

Pro Tip: Remember that not every room in your home should have a feature wall. Thus, take your time to identify the potential for a feature wall to create a wall that will enhance your space, and not an epic fail.

You May Also Like: 10 Home Decorating Ideas For Your Home-Even on a Budget

Would you like to create a feature wall in your home?

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Chelsea Clarke is an investor, and interior design creator. She is currently renovating a 5-bedroom house and sharing the progress here at RoomCrush.com. Her work has been featured in Living Etc, Ownerly, House Digest, Yahoo Life, Bustle, and more. Get Chelsea's room decorating book: Easy Home Updates!

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Here’s A Really Fun Way To Show Off Your Travel Photos

Travel is something that lots of us not only enjoy a few times a year but are also truly passionate about! We crave adventure, whether that’s the other side of the world or a few miles from home… after all, travel is all about the memories we make and the fun we have while doing so!

If you’re anything like me you’ll have arrived home from your last trip with hundreds of photos and not a clue on how, when or what you’ll be doing with them. If I’m honest, most never see the light of day – which is a huge shame, especially as I have always, have fond memories of looking back at old family and friends photos. They really are so special, especially for teasing my sister on her crimped hair choices from back when we were younger! 😉

Recently, I was introduced to Wall Snaps and Square Snaps and found myself with a myriad of choices to remedy this problem…not the ridiculous crimped hair but being able to share, print and create lovely memories of some of our most amazing trips!

Ever since I got my first digital camera, I don’t think I’ve ever really created actual physical copies of photos I’ve taken (pretty sure all the physical photos I own are from film cameras) and so, the chance to do so was one I was only too eager to try out. Now that I have the final results – it’s also one that I’m only too eager to share with you – especially as some of photos are from a trip I’d been planning for YEARS!

7 Ways To Create Your Own Travel Feature Wall

1.) Personalise your home with your travel snaps: There’s a reason why till this day, we still like to share our photos, not just in old family albums but even across social media. Even till this day, the need to update social media when you see something fantastic is still pretty strong in all of us! Printing out your photos isn’t a new idea but I can definitely say using Wall Snaps, to do this is an idea I without hesitation highly recommend.

Why? Well, it’s that whole ‘leap of faith’ thing, just like when you buy those jeans from eBay and you hope to goodness that they look as good as they did online and fit even half as good as they seemed to on your computer.

The amount of times when I’ve been horrified or been left laughing (in outrage) from online ordering makes me really REALLY celebrate those moments when a place just gets it right and Wall Snaps definitely does. It’s also really easy to print your photos in personalised frames, canvases as there’s a huge variety on offer here with other customisable elements and a vast range of mounts but the main thing for me is just that final product! Anyway, no point describing it to you – let me show you! 🙂

2.) Choose your feature wall wisely: One of the key things with any feature wall is to choose your wall wisely! Ideally, any feature wall should grab your attention as soon as you enter the room, but it can’t afford to be one that gets too much ‘traffic to it’ – the last thing you want is for someone to knock down your souvenir or photos off your wall when walking past.

I’d say start with a blank one that’s pretty much dedicated to your travel pieces and you’ll almost have yourself this life-sized puzzle back at home, waiting to be filled with travel memories. I’m a sucker for a hanging souvenir (travel masks, hanging ornaments…etc) so having a “travel wall” fits perfectly with the kind of items I bring back home from my travels. (My cousin built herself a little shelf and that’s where she keeps all her travel memorabilia, photos included!).

3.) Choose your memories: One of the hardest things about creating a travel wall, which includes photos, is choosing which memories you want to share (there are so many great ones to choose from, right?). The great thing about Square Snaps is that you can print off quite literally hundreds of personalised polaroid pictures as well as retro prints so it’s definitely worth checking out the different style products here to figure out what suits you best.

This being said, you probably only have enough space for a finite amount of prints so how do you go about selecting the ones to print? (Even if you do end up printing hundred like we did). 🙂

In my case using my souvenirs as a guide, I’ve found the best way to select the photos is to find a ‘story’ you want to tell.

For instance, you could choose to change things up after every big trip to showcase the latest adventure you’ve been on (almost like your own ever-evolving home art gallery). Or you could choose a photo for every continent you’ve visited (or perhaps even one for every country). Or maybe you’d like to focus on a specific time-frame/timeline in your life? Point is, choosing a story you want to tell make that tricky job of selecting favourite travel photos just that extra bit easier (and a tad more structures).

4.) Draw the eye with contrasting colours: Displaying travel is no time to go for similar tones/colours. The world is diverse and people are so different, even within the same country – let alone across different countries so feel free to mix things up here and embrace the (sometimes sharp) contrasts across your different photos.

Boring, monotonous grids of photos are only suitable for Instagram and even then, definitely not for travel! (By the way, switching frames and mounts can be quite a great way to achieve that perfect ‘organised chaos’ look too).

5.) Make your memories larger than life: One of the best thing about most modern cameras is that you’ll be able to blow up your pictures to gigantic proportions – we all get so much of small photos digitally on our computer and phones so why not make things more interesting and make your photos more ‘life size’… again, think ‘Home Art Gallery”. 😉

6.) Mix old and new: Let’s face it; the concept of an interesting travel wall is one that draws its strengths from the diversity of your experience. New experiences can seem more exciting, partly because we’ve more recently actively chosen them but there are some old gems that deserve their place of pride out there too.

To that end, we say, mix them up – if for nothing at all, it can definitely tell the story of how you’ve changed over the years… or at last give you a chance to display those cute baby photos of yours!

7.) Create polaroid style photos to save on space: This proved very handy when I moved to University halls… and when you move from working in a city like Edinburgh where your rent money gets you so much space to somewhere like London where you pay almost 3 times as much rent for 1/3 rd of the space. Square Snaps do pretty nifty polaroid photo prints (using your photos of course) which you can then display using cool little hanging tools like these ones !

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Wall Snaps: Use HLO10 and get 10% OFF ( Get started here )

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16 living room feature wall ideas to add color, texture and interest

These living room feature wall ideas will revolutionize your socializing space – without needing to decorate the entire area

Living room feature wall ideas are a fun way to jazz up a section of your sitting room space without committing to decorating the space in its entirety. By highlighting one wall or one side of the room, this can actually add more impact than doing up the whole lounge for a less-is-more look.

But not all living room ideas are created equal. Some use paint, others require wallpaper, and whose to say you can't have a little bit of both if you're undecided about which wallcovering to choose?

So we reached out to the interior experts who shared some of the best feature wall ideas for living room to add tonal interest, texture and zone areas – perfect for if you have a multi-functional space that you use for different purposes such as casual dining or remote working.

There are a variety of ideas to choose from, depending on how confident you are with renovating your space. From budget designs for beginners to interesting inspo for intermediate DIYers – we've got solutions to suit all amateur decorators whether you own your home or not.

Living room feature wall ideas you'll love

Creative wall paint ideas are an obvious way to create a feature wall, but not everybody has the patience with a paintbrush. If that sounds familiar you can try a fun wallpaper idea to add impact. There are great peel-and-stick wallpapers if you are renting or don't want to make a long term change.

Finally, we include some wall hanging options for those who want the least hands on approach to creating a feature wall. Equally wow, but you won't lose your deposit, or need to spend time decorating.

1. Go for flower power with feature florals

Wallpaper is relatively affordable way to create a feature wall in your lounge. It's less messy than paint and if you know how to wallpaper hang wallpaper properly – you'll be done in no time. You won't have to wait for paint to dry, and if you decide you don't like it, you can peel it off or paint over wallpaper too.

'Feature wallpaper makes a dramatic statement of any living room wall, and floral wallpaper  Helleborus  is our pick of the bunch,' says Joa Studholme, color curator and author, Farrow & Ball .

'It adds an exuberant contemporary touch to this traditional living room, its oversized botanical motif working beautifully with the bare wooden floorboards and clean white trim.'

While Lauren Kavanagh, creative designer and trend researcher at Hovia says: 'Floral wallpaper is the perfect way to bring some spring freshness into your home, and there are so many different, beautiful designs around to suit all styles. If you are a color lover, try a bold and bright daisy or sunflower print - or if you have a more understated style you may prefer a vintage style design.'

2. Introduce a mural for maximum impact

'If you are looking for truly spectacular wall statement, you can create a mural.' suggests  Justyna Korczynska, senior designer, Crown .

'Murals generally work best in large, uncluttered spaces. If the space is limited, go for one based on simple geometric of free hand shapes. It will still work well providing a high impact.'

If you don't think you could create a mural by hand , look for the great range of bespoke printed wall murals, made to measure online.

3. Let your feature wall spill into other rooms

Your feature wall need not stay within the confines of your lounge – especially if you have an open plan space where you entertain. We love this punchy cocktail of orange and rusty red tones which have been color blocked in a geometric design across the kitchen.

Make your open plan living room pop by choosing accessories that are the same color throughout the space to create a cohesive overlap. Here, the red bar stool and orange plate on and around the kitchen island play ball with the scheme, while a geometric cushion and small wire tray sync in the sitting room.

4. Transform a plain wall with texture

If your previous living room feature wall efforts have fallen a bit flat – try switching up your choice of emulsion. Rather than focusing on just the paint colors for the living room , try swapping your usual eggshell or matt paint for chalk paint to give you that textural difference. This wall has been painted using Napoleonic Blue by Annie Sloan for a smart-looking wall that has a Regencycore feel to it – especially when paired with the decorative molding.

5. Make your ceiling the feature

When thinking about feature walls for the lounge, we typically think of them surrounding a fireplace or being used as a backdrop for the best TV in the home. But rather than creating a statement on the back wall, why not make use of your fifth wall? 

A living room ceiling idea like this is one way to draw the eye up (which is perfect if you have high ceilings or will distract from a small living room ).

6. Create a feature wall with framed art

Paint and wallpaper aren't the only options when it comes to living room feature wall ideas. So if you've got a strict landlord, or aren't a dab hand at DIY – cover your wall in prints for a picture-perfect gallery wall idea .

You can either pick up some ready-made repros ( Desenio is our go-to for Scandi-chic, uber-Instagrammable vibes) or add sentiment to your space with family photographs printed using different effects. For example, you could go for monochrome pics in a chic black and white living room, or add vintage charm with sepia prints. Another idea is to frame printed wallpaper samples or scraps from a leftover wallpaper projects .

Your display can span over several walls or if you've got a snug space that you don't want to look cluttered, your amateur art exhibition could be executed as a living room corner idea . 

7. Transform wall paneling with bold paint

This wall paneling idea turns an old, tired feature ito a modern masterpiece. And all it takes is a touch of paint.

Here, designers at Annie Sloan have used their magic to create a bold design that certainly makes a difference. To recreate the look, you'll need to shop for shades Antoinette , Barcelona Orange and Emperor's Silk . Add some coordinating cushions and a living room lighting idea that works with the scheme for an extra sassy space.

Starting from scratch? Learn all about wall paneling DIY to add the 3D effect to your room.

8. Add tonal interest with an ombre feature wall

With so many paint color choices out there, it'd be a shame to just use one when creating a feature wall. But if the maximalist life isn't for you, creep into a more creative scheme with an ombre effect decor.

While this room by Benjamin Moore using colors Pink Harmony 2013-60 , Salmon Peach 2013-50 and Dusk Pink 2013-40 has quite defined 'lines' – you can blur these shades into each other for a more relaxed feel. We think this looks like a holiday in a room... And would work wonderfully with different shades of blue or green for a tranquil scheme. 

9. Match your feature wall to your flooring

This living room feature wall is out of this world... Don't you think? While dark moody colors aren't for everyone, we can't help but be mesmerized by this space-inspired scheme with circular shapes which look like planets. If you're looking for something the kids will like (that is still sophisticated enough for adults to sit in too) – this is it. To make it even more magical, add some glitter paint for a little sparkle. We also love how the carpet color has been matched to the blue wall paint for as a coordinating living room flooring idea.

10. Add an accent

Not into a full-on feature wall? You don't have to be. Contrary to popular opinion, a feature wall doesn't have to be as overwhelming as you might think. This playful pink and black triangular motif spans a mere third of the wall to add a fun twist to a white wall.

We love the way it's been paired with the rectangular living room rug which is decorated with multicolored squares for a kaleidoscopic lounge aesthetic!

11. Add some scalloped detail

Scalloped detail has a way of creeping into everything! From fashion to shell-shaped seats it's a cute but contemporary take on the nautical feel if you aren't on board with the more classic blue and white Breton stripes.

This modern living room has splashes of color everywhere. From the sky blue and lime paints to the pink sofa and swivel seat, if you're looking for a lounge awash with different hues that work together – here you have it!

12. Add a tufted wall hanging

If you thought that wall hangings were left in the seventies – think again. These groovy hung textiles are the perfect way to add a tactile and cozy feel to your living room.

Perhaps you're not the DIY type, so instead of handmaking this high-pile homeware - buy a small rug to hang instead. That way you can incorporate this boho living room idea without investing in too much time spent crafting... Unless of course you love to get creative with tapestry.

13. Pair your wall with a matching accessory

Geometric walls are the perfect way to inject retro vibes into your living room, and we're loving this contemporary wallcovering from Next (better still, it's one of the best peel-and-stick wallpapers we've seen). 

But, aside from the living room feature wall, what make this make uber-groovy is the teal and mustard matching rug which emphasizes that nostalgic aesthetic of the sixties and seventies.

And if you are looking for living room lighting ideas too, both of these features work perfectly with a curved lighting fixture as seen here.

14. Bring your feature wall to life with a mirror

Easy idea  – three dimensional results. If you really want your living room feature wall ideas to stand out (which by nature, they must), add a mirror. This doesn't have to be a long floor-length mirror idea as shown, but this tall design will have the most impact.

By leaning (or hanging) a reflective pane of glass against the wall, it can create the illusion of your motif or paint color 'jumping out' and off the surface.

15. Go 3D with an interesting wall panel design

These days, panel designs go beyond DIY board and batten walls , so if you want to create a living room feature wall with a difference, think outside of the box.

' Incorporating a textured wall into your decor is a great way to create a feature wall and update a space,' says Poppy Peace, group creative director,  Milc Interiors .

'Dependent upon the pattern or form you choose, it can bring architectural shapes and interest into a room. Whether it is more traditional paneling or a modern spin creating geometric shapes, planning is key ensuring the wall works cohesively with the rest of  the rooms design. The addition of a textured wall in a neutral color scheme adds a stylish touch and helps create a relaxed and intimate setting.'

16. Let there be light with a lit feature wall

Many of the aforementioned feature wall ideas for the living room have included paint, panels or printed wallpaper, but have you ever considered highlighting the contours of your walls with LED lighting? Installing strip lights as a wall lighting idea for the living room is cheaper than you think but can add a sultry atmosphere that looks super expensive.

As long as you have basic electrical knowledge, go ahead and source some warm LED lights (these GuoTong strip lights on Amazon have good reviews), cut them to size and fit them around the edge of your wall. Note that some options are dimmable so you you don't have to have them on constantly if you're worried about your electricity bill!

How do you decorate a living room feature wall?

'In the past, a typical living room feature wall approach was just a wallpaper or stronger color on a chimney breast or the wall around it,' explains Korczynska.

'It is still a very popular approach today as a fireplace and the wall surrounding it are natural focal points in a living room, and choosing that wall is a logical thing to do. But today we are far more creative and feature walls can take many forms, shapes, textures, and materials.'

'Still, using paint is the quickest and easiest way for creating a feature wall. Paint is a very easy to use and versatile material that can produce very effective results. When choosing colors for an existing space, you need to consider the color themes that are already there, so the feature wall will accentuate that theme and not clash with it. If you are looking for creating a subtle calming space, go for complementary colors that do not necessarily have to be very bold. It would give that space a gentle flow and focal point without being overwhelming.'

'If you're looking for a wow factor, you can go for more contrasting and bolder colors. Dark, saturated colors work best for high impact, but avoid the colors that are too bright as they can be overpowering and make the space tiring. If you work with the existing space and furniture, pick a color that would go with that space. If you're starting from a blank canvas, you can build your room around the chosen feature wall color that would become a theme setter in your space.'

'If you’re looking for something more impactful than just a color, you can use textured or metallic paint, patterns, paint effects or even create a mural.'

Are feature walls in living rooms still in fashion?

'Living room feature walls are here to stay.' assures Korczynska.

They add interest to a room and could be especially helpful in a space lacking any natural or architectural features. Another very important job they do is provide a focal point and a sense of direction to the living room.

'So, when choosing a space for your feature wall you need to consider the layout of that room and the furniture in it. You need to pick a wall that won’t be covered by too many furniture or wouldn’t have too many windows, as it would make the feature disrupted and overpowered by those elements. 

'If you want you feature wall to be a focal point of the room and to be appreciated when you’re there, pick a wall you will be facing most of the time when using that room. So, it could be a wall with a fireplace or a TV. If you use a feature wall to create a zone in your living room, for sitting down or dining, then use the wall behind the sofa or against the table. When entering the room, the feature wall will make that space visually attractive and will guide you to that zone. This could be especially helpful in large open plan spaces.'

'If the room is quite spacious with high ceilings, you don’t have to follow the architecture of the room and stop with your color where the wall ends. You can be more adventurous by continuing the paint around the corners and across the ceiling, enveloping a whole section of the room in the feature color.'

'If you don’t want to accentuate just one wall in your room, but you’re looking for injecting some color and creating a focal interest on your walls you can go for two tone paint effect and paint all your walls half-and-half. It works best in medium sized and smaller rooms as it would lose its impact in a large open space. With high ceilings you can put a darker color at the top to visually lover the height of the room, but in a room with lower ceilings, is better to keep the darker colors at the lower half of the wall.'

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Hi, I'm the former acting head ecommerce editor at Real Homes. Prior to working for the Future plc family, I've worked on a number of consumer events including the Ideal Home Show, Grand Designs Live, and Good Homes Magazine. With a first class degree from Keele University, and a plethora of experience in digital marketing, editorial, and social media, I have an eye for what should be in your shopping basket and have gone through the internal customer advisor accreditation process.

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How to Create a Feature Wall with Peel and Stick Wallpaper

Feature walls are a great way to add personality, color, and texture to a room. They serve as a focal point and can instantly transform a plain wall into a statement piece. While traditional wallpaper can be difficult to install and remove, peel and stick wallpaper offers a convenient and affordable option for creating a feature wall. In this blog, we will guide you on how to create a feature wall with Loomwell peel and stick wallpaper . Learn more, and shop our removable wallpaper today !

Why Feature Walls?

Feature walls have become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. These walls serve as a focal point in a room, drawing the eye and adding interest and depth to an otherwise plain space. A well-designed feature wall can transform the entire look and feel of a room, creating a stylish and personalized environment that reflects your personality and taste.

One of the biggest benefits of feature walls is that they offer a cost-effective way to update a room's decor without breaking the bank. Instead of having to purchase new furniture or accessories, you can simply change the look of a single wall to create a dramatic look. They’re also an opportunity to experiment with different colors, patterns, and textures that you might be hesitant to incorporate into an entire room.

Step 1: Choose Your Peel and Stick Wallpaper

First, choose the peel and stick wallpaper that best suits your style and the room's theme. Consider the room's existing color scheme, furniture, and decor. Look for a pattern or color that will complement the room without overpowering it. There are many different peel and stick wallpaper designs available, from bold prints to subtle textures. You can also mix and match different wallpaper designs to create a unique feature wall.

Step 2: Prepare the Wall

Before applying the wallpaper, make sure the wall is clean, dry, and smooth. Use a damp cloth to wipe away any dust, dirt, or debris. If there are any cracks or holes in the wall, fill them in with spackle and sand them smooth. For best results, prime the wall with a high-quality primer. This will help the wallpaper adhere better and prevent any discoloration.

Step 3: Measure and Cut the Wallpaper

Measure the wall and cut the wallpaper to the appropriate size. You can use a ruler or measuring tape to get precise measurements. Add a few inches to the height and width of the wall to ensure that the wallpaper covers the entire surface. When cutting the wallpaper, use a sharp utility knife or scissors to make clean, straight cuts. Be sure to match the pattern carefully when cutting each strip.

Step 4: Apply the Wallpaper

Peel off the backing of the wallpaper and align the top edge with the top of the wall. Smooth the wallpaper down with a wallpaper smoothing tool to remove any air bubbles. Work from the top of the wall down to the bottom, smoothing out any wrinkles or bubbles as you go. Repeat this process with each strip of wallpaper, aligning the pattern carefully.

Step 5: Trim the Edges

Once all the wallpaper strips are in place, trim any excess wallpaper from the edges using a sharp utility knife or scissors. Be sure to cut along the edge of the wall carefully to avoid damaging the wallpaper or the wall.

Update Your Room with Loomwell Peel and Stick Wallpaper

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DIY Accent Walls We Love

Fab feature walls can totally make a room. HGTV Magazine shows you how.

Everything is better in 3D — including this rainbow of stripes. “Even though this look could be replicated by painting stripes, doing it with trim makes it literally pop off the wall, which is way more fun,” says designer Savannah Kokaliares .

The DIY Details: Buy pieces of trim that are the height of your wall. Cut the same number of pieces of trim in varying lengths between 1 foot and 2-1/2 feet. Sort the trim into sets, each containing the same number of wall-height pieces and assorted-length pieces, then paint each set a different color. When they are dry, attach them to the wall with a brad nailer, leaving a 2-inch gap between each piece. Attach the smaller pieces of trim to the ceiling with the brad nailer, aligning them with the wall trim so they look like continuous stripes.

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• Sep 21, 2022

Top 12 Unique Feature Wall Ideas For Your Living Room

The living room is the heart of the home and often the basis for the design of the rest of your

house. It is therefore the perfect place to make your mark and establish your design style. A

feature wall is a great way to do this as it becomes a statement piece that can help define your

design aesthetic. At Artelier we have teamed up with artists from all over the world to design

bespoke feature walls in all types of materials and styles known as Artist Walls , discover here 12 of our unique feature wall ideas for your living room...if any of these walls take your fancy, don't hesitate to get in touch!

1.Abstract Botanical - Botanical wall art is extremely popular right now, if you love this trend why not consider adding a botanical-inspired feature wall to your space. This subdued design with gold leaf and a subtle japanese aesthetic takes the design of the space to a new level. The artist behind this feature wall creates lush, exotic landscapes that depict wild places that are uninhabited and timeless, "offering a glimpse of a paradise that is potentially lost to us".

2. Abstract Panels - These abstract panels feature a contemporary design in beige and blue

adding interest without overwhelming the space. The artist behind this feature wall is a classically trained pianist, i n her paintings, she fuses the line between the musical and visual composition. The layers and gestures of her paintings evoke musical spaces and rhythms while drawing on patterns found in nature.

3. Bold Abstract - This design is much more prominent and present in the space, this makes for a

great statement piece within a room. If you love oversized abstract art then why not consider a unique

mural for your wall, the artist behind this piece usually works on oversized canvases, but can also create full-size feature walls designed specifically to complement a space.

4. Reclaimed Timber - If you love textures and raw natural materials then you may just fall in love with this reclaimed timber feature wall. The artist behind this design works exclusively with reclaimed timber which he finds in forests and natural landscapes. He then weaves tiles of timber into these intricate shapes and patterns.

5. Gold Leaf Abstract - This blue and gold abstract mural is designed by one of our featured artists Michelle Gagliano . Working exclusively with natural pigments and gold leaf whilst drawing inspiration from nature and the great outdoors Gagliano's work is truly mesmerising. Could you picture having your very own gold leaf feature wall by the artist?

6. Nuno Silk - This one of a kind feature wall is made by blending wool and silk together to create Nuno Silk a non-woven material which originates from central Asia. The textile artist creates designs and patterns using pastels which she then translates into Nuno Silk.

7. Woven Wire - This feature wall is designed by one of our partner artists who works with woven wire to create abstract shapes and patterns. In an ode to the Turkish carpet motifs of the artist's childhood, she weaves reflective metallic wires into a dense mesh, creating intricate geometric and abstract designs that explore structures of life, nature and architecture.

8. Sea Blue - The artist behind this feature wall creates abstract paintings that explore the chromatic

and translucent effects of paint and gold leaf, while simultaneously accentuating textural qualities. If you are after something more textural and less painterly then this may be a great fit. The nature of the material means it is great for indoor/outdoor spaces.

9. Minerals & Fire - Inspired by ideas of alchemy, medicine and the formation of living matter, Tobias Tover a creates his surfaces by mixing a concoction of earth-based pigments and mineral salts. The chemical reactions that result, often activated by the artist’s introduction of fire, are an array of colours and graduations of textures. We have teamed up with him to work large scale on bespoke feature walls for unique interiors - if you could see a Tovera in your space get in touch!

10. Raku Ceramics - With an innate drive to understand the origins of ceramic art and its ancient connection to the Earth, Hayes has engaged with communities across the world where traditions of the artform are centuries-old. In keeping with the Raku ceramics tradition, Hayes works exclusively with natural earth clay and the flames of the kiln to create contemporary pieces.

11. Nuno Silk - This one of a kind feature wall is made by blending wool and silk together to create

Nuno Silk a non woven material which originates from central asia. The textile artist creates designs

and patterns using pastels which she then translates into Nuno Silk.

When it comes to finding the perfect feature wall for your living room the possibilities are endless. If

you are interested in collaborating with us to design the perfect feature wall for your living room, then

don't hesitate to get in touch.

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20 Creative Ways to Make Your TV Blend in With Your Wall Décor

These TV wall ideas are as practical as they are stylish.

Life Created, Living with Lolo

TVs are found in practically every home across the country—and are utilized on a near-daily basis—and yet they remain one of the trickier elements to design around. After all, you want a space that feels cohesive and calming, and this piece of technology tends to create friction with unsightly cords and its clunky silhouette. To ease the design friction, it’s important to get intentional about how your TV is integrated into your gathering space. The designer-approved TV wall ideas we’re showcasing here can help you do exactly that. 

Create a Recessed Shelving Unit

Jenifer McNeil Baker, Maestri Studio

You can make your TV installation feel more intentional by placing it within a recessed area. This design by Maestri Studio features storage cabinets all around, with a floating shelf above the TV that matches the lower shelf.

Place It Above the Fireplace

Emily Minton Redfield Photo, Truss Interiors

There's a quiet rule in design that says you shouldn't put your TV above the fireplace, but rules are allowed to be broken! In this living room design by Truss Interiors , the best place for the TV was on the fireplace wall, where it looks chic outlined in a wooden frame.

Opt for Black on Black

A quick way to make your TV melt into the background is to paint your wall the exact same color as the screen. A black accent wall reads as modern and edgy in this design by Living with Lolo —not overtly moody or mysterious—and helps conceal the TV when it's not being used.

Hide It Behind a Sliding Art Panel

Sarah Millet, Melinda Kelson O'Connor Architecture & Interiors

Want your TV to disappear when it's not turned on? Add a sliding panel to a bookcase that easily moves back and forth to cover the TV as needed. Melinda Kelson O'Connor Architecture & Interiors opted for a framed sketch of a bird nest in this design.

Frame It Against a Stone Wall

Become Legendary, House of One

Place your TV against an accent wall, like the stone variation seen in this modern design by House of One . It frames the TV in a striking way that feels cool and sophisticated. You could also play with wallpaper or paint to create a similar effect.

Install a Wall-to-Wall String Unit

Michelle Zacks Designs

Consider installing a wall-to-wall string shelving unit to maximize storage potential and give your TV a dedicated spot in the living room. The upper shelving provides tons of space for decor or books, while the cabinetry below is a great place to keep items organized and out of sight.

Spring for Custom Framing

Est Est Interior Design

To really highlight your TV and help it feel intentionally placed, surround it with a beautiful custom frame. Because the frame's completely custom, it works whether your home has a Southwestern aesthetic, like this space created by Est Est Interior Design , is ultra-modern, or more eclectic.

Place It Above a Simple Credenza

Brian Wetzel

Sometimes, less is more, as proven in this contemporary living room design filled with neutral tones. A creamy beige credenza with subtle texture sits directly underneath a large flat-screen TV, offering a low-key, streamlined effect.

Mount It Against a Rustic Stone Wall Feature

Christa Tippmann, Forge & Bow

If you've got a stone feature wall, maybe part of a fireplace or simply as an accent wall, consider it a potential destination for your TV. It creates a cool backdrop for your tech. In this space, Forge & Bow created contrast with two crisp white built-in bookshelves on either side.

Use Wallpaper to Create Symmetry and Contrast

Shawn Kallio, Keri Michelle Interiors

Wallpaper instantly lends contrast to a space, as you can see in this beautiful living room designed by Keri Michelle Interiors . The team inserted a blue wallpaper with subtle texture into the recessed bookshelves sitting on either side of the TV. Note how the floating shelves match the mantle for more continuity.

Create a Recessed Spot

Michelle Zacks Design

Instead of an entirely recessed shelving unit, consider only recessing the spot where your TV will live. Michelle Zacks Design did that in this refined living room and also opted for the black-on-black effect for a more streamlined look.

Flank It With Matching Artwork

Tri-Pointe Homes

A mounted TV sitting above a credenza works across a multitude of interior design aesthetics. To help the wall look more intentionally designed—and to add some contrast—add two pieces of matching artwork on either side. Tri-Pointe Homes opted for neutral watercolor prints in this design.

Surround It With Floating Shelves and Console

Keep your TV wall ultra modern by leaning into the floating shelves trend. In this office space by Est Est Interior Design, the TV's in good company with a floating console underneath and a floating cabinet on its left side.

Install a Sliding Art Feature

Auberge Resorts Collection

Here's another example of how you can hide your TV when it's not in use. This setup includes a slim bar mounted to the wall with a piece of art that easily glides back and forth as needed to conceal the TV.

Embrace Built-In Storage and Shelving

The TV looks perfectly at home in this earthy living room designed by Maestri Studio. It sits within a recessed built-in shelving unit complete with upper and lower cabinets and a panel of shelving.

Blend It Into a Gallery Wall

Imani at Home

A gallery wall is the perfect addition to any maximalist's home. Why not weave your TV into the mix? Here, Imani at Home set her TV above a thrifted dresser and surrounded it with an array of art in varied frames.

Go For an Ornate, Dark Academia Vibe

Those who find themselves drawn to the dark academic aesthetic can take their TV wall inspiration from this striking design by Maestri Studio.

Place Floating Shelves on Either Side

In this sophisticated living room designed by Living with Lolo, the TV is positioned on an accent wall and flanked by three floating shelves on either side. The symmetry creates a sense of planned cohesion.

Hang Multiple TVs Against One Wall

Does your family have a hard time deciding what to put on the TV? Or are you a gaming house with a need for multiple screens? Whatever the case, there's no rule that says you can only have one. Truss Interiors opted for three in this living room: one primary TV with two smaller TVs on either side.

Create Custom Cutout Shelving

Nick Parisse

You can proudly display your favorite knickknacks in the living room with this TV wall idea featuring custom cutout shelving. A multitude of compartments allows for numerous vignettes and cozy compartments for your treasured collections.