Walls Phase|Step 7 of 23

Consider an Accent Wall

One bold wall can transform a room. It creates a focal point, adds color, and costs a fraction of painting the whole room.

Time Required

2-4 hours

Cost

$50-$300

Difficulty

Easy to Moderate

Accent Wall Options

$30-$60

Most affordable. One gallon covers a wall. Go 2-3 shades darker than surrounding walls for subtle drama.

$50-$150

Removable, renter-friendly. Huge pattern selection. Forgiving to install.

$100-$300

Vertical strips for texture and dimension. DIY-friendly with basic tools.

$150-$400

Warm, textured. Horizontal or vertical. Natural or painted white.

Behind the sofa: Most common. Creates backdrop for main seating.
Fireplace wall: Natural focal point. Enhances architectural feature.
Entry view: What you see when you walk in. Makes first impression.
Longest unbroken wall: Most impact. Avoid walls with multiple windows/doors.

Avoid: Don't pick a wall that competes with another focal point.

Pull from existing: Accent color in your rug, art, or pillows.
Warm vs. cool: Match the undertone of your existing walls.
Dark colors recede: Make room feel cozy, not smaller.
Test samples: Paint swatches on the wall. Look at morning and evening light.
Safe bold choices: Deep navy, forest green, charcoal, terracotta.

•Commit to the color: Wishy-washy accent walls look like mistakes. Go bold or go home.
•Paint the whole wall: Stopping at corners looks weird. Go edge to edge.
•Include trim and windows: Paint trim the same color for modern, dramatic look.
•Less is more: One accent wall. More looks busy.