Top 5 Accent Wall Rules to Follow

Accent Wall Rules

Interior designers will always consider adding accent walls in whatever space they are designing – a living room, bedroom, kitchen, den or even a commercial office space. Accent walls are the only way to create a distinct and dramatic color difference so that the room will come alive to those who enter it.

Accent walls are easy to create and can be quite stylish, with the accent color you choose. There are an unlimited amount of colors and hues to choose from for your accent wall. There’s even the option to add texture and dimension with special paint treatments or techniques.

Accent walls can be used in any room to draw attention or highlight unique furniture or décor. However, there are some accent wall rules to follow when making your decision.

RULE #1:  Choose a bolder color for your accent wall. The simplest of accent wall rules. It doesn’t matter if it’s darker, lighter or even if it’s wallpapered – whatever color or shade you choose, just make sure you can coordinate the furniture and decorative items with it.

RULE #2: Be sure to choose the right wall to accent. Larger rooms without any architectural details would definitely benefit from an accent wall. Using a wall of windows could also serve as an accent wall, but whatever color surrounds windows should not be darker, because it can create a bright light effect in the room and be distracting.

RULE #3:  Choose abstract and creative ways to cover the accent wall. Paint is not the only way to highlight an accent wall. Wallpaper, stripes, metallic paint colors, or a specialty paint finish can be great ways to enhance your wall and make a powerful statement. Wallpaper is a terrific selection for any accent wall – especially in a smaller room. The latest wallpaper designs, (even temporary ones) will help you create an accent wall that will look amazing.

RULE #4:  Accent walls are the best addition to a neutral colored room. It’s easy to be conservative and choose a neutral colored paint to cover your walls. Because neutral shades can be less-appealing to look at over time, a dramatic accent wall can break up the monotony.

RULE #5: Consider the color on your other walls. Typically, an accent wall works best when it’s adjacent to other walls in a light to medium shade. The contrast in the room of a brighter accent wall against other neutral or pale colored walls will complement the room. Neutral colors like gray, or beige on the surrounding walls will work best with your accent color.

No matter the size of the room you’re updating, it’s always wise to consider hiring a color consultant who has the experience needed to balance colors in a room. Whenever you’re ready to call your painting professional to start your next paint project, remember these accent wall rules – they can save you time, money and energy. Contact our color experts at Canabe – we’ve spent years helping customers choose paint colors and wallpaper designs.