Accent Wall Ideas + Paint Tips
What Is an Accent Wall?
An accent wall is any wall in a home that is singled out, whether through a different paint color, wall art, wallpaper or structural beams. Accent walls are one of the simplest ways to make a space feel brand new, and they also allow you to infuse your personality. Make an accent wall as playful as you wish; choose a paint color that was a childhood favorite or a wallpaper print of flowers, stripes or polka dots! Other ideas for accent walls include wall-to-wall shelving (try layers of floating wall shelves, one on top of the other); scenic wall mural decals; and large tapestries or hanging quilts for a softer aesthetic. Finally, consider furniture; a grand, large buffet, desk with hutch or tall bookcase each make the walls behind them stand out (and can in and of themselves be considered as accent wall pieces).1. Accent Room
Accent Wall Tip: Find the Right Wall. Before starting on a DIY accent wall project, you’ll need to choose the right wall. This should be one that’s already naturally featured in the room. Consider: a) a wall with the biggest furniture piece (such as a sofa or bed), b) the biggest or widest wall in a room, or c) a wall that naturally stands out due to a slant or arched ceiling edge.
What Color Accent Wall Goes with Grey?
Accent Wall Tip: Create a Vision Board. Psst – have you heard about vision boards? Whether you’re working on an accent wall, vacation wardrobe or birthday celebration, vision boards help you know your vision and bring it to life. Try an online website host like Pinterest and get started keeping your favorite images. Anything and everything that inspires you (no matter if it has to do with the current project) belongs on a vision board. (Does a blue unicorn make you smile? Add it to the vision board. In some shape or another, it will come back and influence your accent wall or other project, even if just by helping you narrow down a blue color!)
What Accent Wall Color Goes with Brown Furniture?
Brown furniture brings warmth and elegance to a space, and the right accent wall color can enhance these qualities. Whether you prefer a harmonious look or a bold statement, consider the following options:
- Earthy Tones
Colors like moss green, terracotta, or warm beige complement the natural richness of brown. These shades create a cozy, cohesive feel, perfect for living rooms or bedrooms with a rustic or traditional touch. - Contrasting Shades
If you want to make your brown furniture stand out, try a pop of contrast. Rich blues, deep teals, or mustard yellows provide a striking backdrop while balancing the warmth of brown with a cooler or brighter tone. - Neutral Accents
For a timeless look, stick to neutrals. Soft whites, light grays, or even charcoal shades add subtle elegance, allowing the furniture to remain the focal point without overwhelming the space.
Accent Wall Tip: Tie the room together by incorporating the accent wall color into the decor. Add throw pillows, rugs, or artwork with complementary shades to create a cohesive and polished look.
3. Wood Panel Accent Walls
4. Simple Blue Accent Wall
Accent Wall Tip: Go Darker. An accent wall is often not going to be the only painted wall in your room. If all your walls are already painted (albeit in a neutral, subtle wall color), work this to your advantage by painting one of them over – in a darker shade from the rest. A popular example in modern homes? Three light grey walls + one charcoal wall.
Painting an Accent Wall
Accent Wall Tip: Add Lighting. After all the hard work you’ll have put into a new accent wall, you’ll want to showcase it! Install wall sconces on either side of the wall. At night, turn them on – and enjoy how the light splays across the color to make it more prominent. Other lighting designs to complement an accent wall can include hanging pendants, chandeliers, floor lamps and string lights. And during the day, remember to throw back the shades!
Accent Wall Ideas


Kennedy Mocha Power Recliner With USB | Wall Hugger | Loose Reversible Back
- USB
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Nerviano Chocolate Brown Manual Wallaway Recliner | Wall Hugger
- More Colors
- Wall Hugger


Halo II Buff Power Wallaway Recliner with Power Headrest & USB | Wall Hugger
- USB
- More Colors
- Wall Hugger


Halo II Grey Power Wallaway Recliner with Power Headrest & USB | Wall Hugger
- USB
- More Colors
- Wall Hugger

Halo II Blue Power Wallaway Recliner with Power Headrest & USB | Wall Hugger
- USB
- More Colors
- Wall Hugger

Blaire Modern Natural Brown Walnut 75" MDF Floating Wall Shelf | Contract Grade | Rectangle
- Contract Grade
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Editorial Disclaimer: Articles featuring tips and advice are intended for educational purposes and only as general recommendations. Always practice personal discretion when using and caring for furniture, decor and related items.