5 Key Factors to Decide Which Wall Should Be the Accent Wall

Your room is a place where you unwind, plot your next big move, or binge an entire season of your favorite show. But no matter how comfy it is, a room without personality can feel lifeless. 

An accent wall is your chance to change that. It’s eye-catching and can singlehandedly shift your room’s vibe for the better.

But the thing is, not every wall is accent material. Choose wrong, and your room could look like it’s trying too hard or, worse, not trying at all. So, how do you decide which wall should be the accent wall? Is it about natural lighting or something else entirely? 

Stick around as we break down five factors to help you decide which wall deserves the spotlight, tips to style one, and mistakes to avoid. Your room’s glow-up starts now.

The Basics of Choosing an Accent Wall

An accent wall is a statement. But where do you even start? 

The process requires understanding your room’s energy and how one wall can set the tone for everything else. Get this part right, and you’ll end up styling your room effortlessly. 

What Is an Accent Wall Anyway?

An accent wall creates a focal point, anchoring the room and drawing the eye exactly where you want it to go. 

Unlike the other walls, which just mind their own business, this one gets the star treatment typically through a splash of bold color, a striking pattern, a wallpaper, or a texture that begs to be touched. 

Done right, it’s the easiest way to break the monotony and give your room a little more you.

Why Accent Walls Matter in Interior Design

Accent walls allow you to set a particular vibe without demanding a full-scale redesign.

Besides beautifying a space, they’re also used to highlight your favorite artwork, display architectural quirks, or give a nod to that perfectly positioned sofa you’re so proud of. 

Even better? They let you experiment. 

We mean, bold colors, textures, or patterns that might feel overwhelming on all four walls are perfect for one. 

By effortlessly combining form and function to make any room feel more alive, accent walls prove that a little goes a long way. 

Choosing the Right Colors, Patterns, and Textures

When it comes to accent walls, nothing works its charm quite like the right colors, patterns, and textures. 

Colors set the mood of your space. If you want your room to feel energetic, a deep terracotta or sunny mustard can wake it up real quick. Those after a calming effect can opt for deep navy or soft sage. 

If, however, you live in the land of neutrals, charcoal or taupe can do wonders. They’re quite sophisticated and never boring.

Patterns are where things get really interesting. A bold herringbone design might give your dining room a modern edge, while soft vertical stripes can make a small bedroom feel taller. 

Finally, textures add soul. It’s something you feel as soon as you enter a room. 

Exposed brick gives off Brooklyn loft vibes, while reclaimed wood speaks of nostalgia. If you’re after glamor, sleek metallic finishes might do the trick. 

How Light and Dark Colors Impact Accent Walls

Light and dark colors are two sides of the same coin. They both make an impact but in completely different ways.

Light colors play the role of the room’s gentle enhancers. Soft hues like creamy whites, pastels, and pale grays can open up a space, making it feel bigger and airier. They’re perfect for smaller rooms with limited natural light, where a touch of subtlety can work wonders. 

Dark colors, on the other hand, are bold and unapologetic. Deep blues or rich emerald greens create instant depth.

They’re perfect to make large spaces feel more intimate. However, remember that too much darkness in an already dim room can feel heavy, so balance is key.

Design Principles for Stunning Accent Walls

A show-stopping accent wall complements the room’s existing style.

To begin with, proportion plays a big role. A large wall might call for bold colors or detailed designs, while a smaller wall shines with simplicity. 

Besides, cohesion matters, too. Your accent wall should feel like a natural part of the room. Put simply, it must tie together colors, patterns, furniture, and everything in between effortlessly.

Overall, a stunning accent wall is thoughtful and plays well with its surroundings (more on the design principles below). 

What are the Types of Accent Walls?

The possibilities of styling an accent wall are only limited by your imagination. Whether you’re drawn to modern finishes or cozy rustic vibes, there’s a style for you. Below, we’ve enlisted some of the most popular types of accent walls.

1. Tiled Accent Walls. If you love clean lines or a touch of luxury, a tiled accent wall might be your best bet. They’re a great way to give your space a sleek look. Besides, you can pick from a variety of options, from glossy subway tiles to Moroccan mosaics.
2. Wood Panels add warmth like no other. If you’re drawn to farmhouse charm or industrial loft vibes, this is for you. They’re also perfect if you seek to bring a bit of nature indoors.
3. Patchwork. Think mismatched tiles or a collage of textures and patterns coming together for an eclectic look. If you love boho style or rooms with a little more personality, patchwork walls let your individuality shine.
4. Stone Accent Wall creates a rustic cabin feel or a chic fireplace surround. Go for it if you love a mix of luxury and rugged charm.
5. Color Block walls are full of personality. Modernists and minimalists alike can opt for them. They’re great for bedrooms, kids' rooms, or anywhere that could use a bit of creative energy.
6. Striped Accent Wall. Ideal for people who love elegance and a hint of whimsy without being too flashy. Vertical stripes can make ceilings feel taller, while horizontal ones can widen a narrow room.
7. Mirrored Accent Wall can make any space feel bigger and brighter. If you’re working with a small room accent wall or love an airy aesthetic, mirrored walls are your go-to solution.

How to Choose an Accent Wall - 5 Factors to Consider

Choose an accent wall that naturally catches your eye. This could be the wall behind your bed, a fireplace, a standout window, or an artwork. Make sure you also consider how it plays with the room’s lighting and style. The key is to make it pop while ensuring it belongs.

That said, here are 5 factors to consider when deciding which wall should be the accent wall. 

1. Using Natural Light for Design Impact

Pay attention to the natural light in your room. If there’s a spot in your room that gets that perfect afternoon glow, chances are that’s the place where your eyes naturally gravitate. It’ll effortlessly make up for an ideal spot for an accent wall. 

On the flip side, darker corners, or walls hidden away from the light, are often better left untouched. They can draw focus away from the areas of the room that invite you in.

2. Strategic Considerations of Entry Points

Think about the first thing you want to catch the eye when someone walks into the room. The wall directly facing the entry is always a winner. That’s because it’s the natural focal point that immediately draws attention. 

On the other hand, accent walls tucked in corners or positioned off-center often miss the mark. These walls are easy to overlook. Besides, they also feel disconnected from the room’s flow. 

While they might work in some cases, they don’t create the same immediate visual interest that a wall facing the entry does. 

So, make sure you keep your accent wall in a spot that greets both you and your guests.

3. Aligning Accent Walls With Furniture Layout

The way you arrange your furniture has a huge impact on where and how your accent wall should be placed. 

In a living room, for example, if the TV is your focal point, the accent wall should likely be the one behind it. This draws attention to the area where most of your time is spent. 

If, however, your sofa is the centerpiece, placing the accent wall behind it brings visual interest. 

The alignment shifts a bit when it comes to bedrooms. Here, the accent wall typically goes behind the bed because that’s where your eyes naturally fall when you enter the room. 

So, make sure you align your accent wall with your furniture layout to make the whole space feel complete.

4. Consider the Architectural Features

Think fireplaces, exposed beams, built-in shelves, or striking windows. They’re natural focal points, so why not let them lead the way? 

A fireplace wall, for instance, begs to be your accent wall. It’s already the room’s centerpiece, and adding a bold color or texture takes it to the next level. 

Likewise, walls with archways, niches, or molding practically ask for some extra attention; they’re unique by nature and can anchor the room’s design.

Also, if your room lacks standout architecture, don’t worry. A clean, flat wall can become its own feature with the right design choices. 

5. Understanding Size and Proportion In Wall Design

The size and proportion of your wall matter more than you might think. A wall that’s too small can get lost in the room, while an oversized one can feel overwhelming.

For example, choosing a large wall in smaller rooms can make the space feel cramped. Therefore, consider focusing on a proportional wall like the one behind a bed or couch instead. This will help you create an impact without overcrowding the room. 

In spacious areas, an expansive wall can be your centerpiece for bold designs, but it’s important to keep the balance with furniture or artwork.

Which Wall Should be the Accent Wall In Bedroom?

Nine times out of ten, the best candidate is the wall behind your bed. 

That’s because your bed is already the focal point of the room. Highlighting that wall gives your room structure and a sense of balance.

However, you can always mix things up. If you have a stunning window with beautiful morning light or an architectural detail like an alcove, that could be a strong contender, too. 

The trick is to choose a wall your eyes naturally settle on without effort. 

Which Wall Should be the Accent Wall In Living Room?

Start with the obvious: the wall that already draws attention. This is usually the wall behind your TV or fireplace. 

These natural focal points are prime real estate for an accent wall because they ground the room and keep the design feeling cohesive.

Further, avoiding walls cluttered with doors or awkward angles is also among the most popular living room accent wall ideas. That’s because such walls are more likely to compete with the design rather than enhance it. 

How to Select the Right Color, Pattern, or Texture for Accent Wall

Choosing the accent wall is only the beginning. The real work begins when you have to design one. You must nail the color, pattern, and texture to achieve the desired vibe. Here are some options to consider. 

Painted Accent Walls

Painting an accent wall is the most budget-friendly option to bring instant character to a room. 

You can opt for deep blues and greens for a calm atmosphere, sunny yellows for energy, or neutral shades like taupe and beige for understated elegance. 

However, one shortcoming is that paint isn’t forever. Over time, it can lose its vibrance, especially in rooms with a lot of sunlight or traffic. 

As such, you might find yourself re-painting accent walls sooner than expected to keep that fresh look intact. 

Still, if you’re looking for a low-effort, high-impact way to experiment with your space, paint remains a tried-and-true winner. Just keep a roller handy for touch-ups!

Wall Panel Accent Walls

Wall panels are great for adding texture to an accent wall. If you seek a rustic, cozy vibe, go for warm wooden panels. Those craving something contemporary can try smooth MDF panels or bold 3D designs that pop. 

However, depending on the design, they can be more time-consuming to install. Plus, they demand a bit of commitment; swapping them out isn’t as easy as repainting. 

But if you’re after a high-impact feature, they deliver both style and substance. 

Modern Slats take it a step further with their timeless Wood Slat Panels. Besides improving a room’s acoustics, they bring a sense of warmth and a modern edge to your space. 

Wallpaper Accent Walls

From floral prints for a soft touch to bold geometrics for a modern vibe, wallpaper offers an impactful upgrade to your space. 

However, installing them requires a bit of precision - one air bubble or misalignment can throw off the whole look. 

Plus, while peel-and-stick options make life easier, traditional wallpaper can be tricky to remove if you’re someone who likes frequent change. Still, if you’re ready to go bold, you won’t regret it. 

Tips for Styling Accent Walls

From choosing complementary furnishings to layering textures, there are a million ways to make your accent wall stand out. Here are some ideas to style an accent wall like a pro. 

Explore More Than Just Solid Colors

Solid colors are great, but where’s the fun in that? Stripes, geometric shapes, or even ombre gradients can make your wall unique. So, don’t be afraid to mix things up. 

You could experiment with a playful contrast of matte and gloss or even dip your toes into the world of metallics if you're feeling fancy. The key here is to be bold and fearless but also mindful. 

Use Accent Walls for Neutral Spaces

Sometimes, that serene beige or soft gray wall can feel a little too serene. The accent wall offers a perfect way to breathe life into a neutral room without completely overhauling the vibe. 

You can opt for a bold color or a subtle pattern, whatever you prefer. 

The best part is that you get all the interest you want without straying too far from the minimalist aesthetic you love. 

So, next time your neutral room feels a bit too quiet, give it something to say with an accent wall.

Incorporate Textures

Whether it’s the raw appeal of exposed brick or the warmth of wood paneling, textures can completely change the vibe of a room (for good). 

Think about running your fingers over a soft velvet wall or feeling the coolness of a stone panel; textures engage the senses in ways that colors alone can’t. Besides, they add a depth that makes your accent wall stand out even more. 

Coordinate With Surrounding Wall Colors

If your main walls are painted in a cool, soft tone, you might want to choose an accent wall that’s a few shades deeper or richer in the same color family or even something with a subtle contrast. 

This keeps everything connected without looking out of place. 

After all, the accent wall should feel like it’s part of the bigger picture, not an entirely different scene.

Think Outside the Box

The best accent walls come from thinking outside the box - or, in this case, beyond the walls. 

We mean, how about extending your accent design to the ceiling or trim? 

A bold ceiling color can create an unexpected wow factor. Even the trim or baseboards can be an opportunity to add some style. 

This way, you create a multidimensional space that feels intentional. 

Go for Bold Colors

If you want to make a statement, why not go all in with bold accent wall colors?

Depending on your preferences, a rich emerald green or a daring cobalt blue could be great options.

Further, pairing it with a bright wall with subtle textures can keep the room grounded. 

Give Wallpaper a Thought

Whether you lean toward a dramatic floral or a timeless damask, wallpaper adds visual intrigue that’s hard to replicate with a flat coat of paint. 

Plus, there’s something irresistibly chic about the texture that wallpaper brings to a space. So, give wallpaper a thought. It might just be the accent your room didn’t know it needed.

Consider Alternatives to Traditional Accent Walls

Accent walls don’t always have to follow the same script. So, think beyond the obvious: ceilings, alcoves, or built-in shelving can be some unexpected focal points. 

You could use a stunning oversized art or a floor-to-ceiling bookshelf to grab attention. In fact, a painted ceiling can be your fifth wall. It’s a conversation starter, for sure.

The goal here isn’t to follow the rules but to make a statement your way.

Rules for Designing an Accent Wall

Although you’re free to experiment, certain rules must be adhered to regardless. They keep your wall from looking out of place and give it a much-needed balance. Here are some accent wall rules to consider.

• The color of your accent wall must blend with the room’s decor. If your couch has a deep blue throw or your rug hints at terracotta, echoing that hue on your wall will bring everything together beautifully. Just don’t get carried away; too much of the same color can make your room feel boring.
• Your accent wall should support the room’s focal point. If your fireplace or a stunning art piece already steals the show, pick a wall that enhances, not fights for, that attention.
• Avoid highlighting a wall you’re trying to hide. That weird bump, awkward angle, or slightly dingy corner? Painting it bright coral won’t magically make it work. It’ll only spotlight the flaws, and we don’t want that.
• Choose colors and patterns because they fit your room, not because Pinterest told you hunter green or navy is “in.” Trends fade, but an authentic design always shines.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Designing an Accent Wall

A few missteps can make your bold design a regrettable eyesore. Therefore, watch out for these common pitfalls.

• Ignoring the room’s existing color scheme and style. Your accent wall should complement what’s already there. That bold lime green might look great on a swatch, but if your furniture leans neutral, it could feel out of place.
• Another trap is going too loud. Over-the-top textures or excessive boldness can make a room feel overwhelming. Accent walls should add character without visually shouting for attention.
• DIY enthusiasts, listen up: sloppy execution can ruin even the best ideas. Uneven paint or visible smudges are impossible to ignore and will cheapen the entire room. So, take your time or call in the pros if you’re unsure.
• Not balancing the wall’s design with the room’s proportions is another common mistake. An overly busy wall in a small room can feel suffocating, while a massive wall with minimal design in a large space risks looking empty and uninspired. 

The Rules for Multiple Accent Walls

Who says you can’t have more than one accent wall? 

When done right, multiple accent walls can make your room truly unique. But this isn’t a free pass to go wild. By the end of the day, more walls mean more rules.

Consider the Size of the Space

If you have a small room, too many accent walls can shrink the space instead of enhancing it. 

Larger spaces, on the other hand, can handle contrasts - think two complementary feature walls - without overpowering the space. So, always let the scale of the room guide your choices. 

Prioritize Functionality

Think about the room’s natural flow and key focal points. If you’re styling your bedroom, one wall might frame the headboard while another accentuates a cozy reading nook. 

A living room, on the flip side, can benefit from a textured wall behind the sofa with a painted one behind the TV. 

Each accent wall must feel intentional. 

Achieve Visual Balance

Balance is everything when working with multiple accent walls. If one wall is bold (like a deep color) let the second wall be a quieter companion, using subtle textures or a lighter hue. This makes your design more polished. 

Avoid Going Overboard

The excitement of multiple accent walls can lead to overkill if you’re not careful. A room with too many competing focal points can feel visually exhausting. 

As a rule of thumb, stick to two well-placed accent walls that complement each other. Sometimes, the key to a stunning design is knowing when to stop.

FAQs: How to Pick an Accent Wall? 

How Do You Decide Which Wall Should Be an Accent Wall?

Pick the wall your eyes naturally land on, like behind your bed or the one catching gorgeous afternoon light. If it feels like the star of the room, it’s probably the one.

What Is a Rule of Thumb for Accent Walls?

Keep it simple: one standout wall per room. Make sure it complements your space (because that’s what an accent wall is meant to do) and doesn’t fight for attention.

Which Wall to Make an Accent Wall?

The wall with a purpose. It could be the one behind the bed, a fireplace, a bookshelf, or your TV. 

Should an Accent Wall Be Darker or Lighter?

Darker walls bring coziness, while lighter ones keep things fresh and airy. The vibe you want will decide - moody or breezy - your call.

Does a Dark Accent Wall Make a Room Look Bigger or Smaller?

Surprisingly, it depends! A dark accent wall can make a room feel bigger by creating a focal point that draws the eye outward. But in a smaller, poorly lit space, it might make the room feel more compact. It all comes down to lighting and how you style the rest of your space. 

Final Thoughts: Which Wall Should be the Accent Wall

Knowing which wall should be the accent wall requires understanding how a space breathes, from the natural flow of light to the way furniture frames the room. 

Once you pinpoint the wall that commands attention, it’s all about styling it. While colors make walls shine, adding texture could be a great way to create a space that feels timeless. 

Thankfully, Modern Slat Wood Panels bring that organic, textured vibe to your room. Whether you’re styling for a chic urban loft or a cozy retreat, these slats add a touch of elegance while improving the acoustics of your space.

So, if you’re looking to make your accent wall the heart of the room, Modern Slats is where design meets practicality in a way you’ve never seen before.