It’s a staple of modern decorating: the accent wall. Given the number of times they pop up on decorating shows and magazines—not to mention Pinterest and Instagram—you might think an accent wall is required by (decorating) law. We wouldn’t go that far, but it is a proven way to add interest to a room without committing to a complete overhaul. You could simply slap a contrasting color on one wall and call it a day, but here are some other options for adding drama to your room.

TURN THE CORNER

Image:  Architectural Digest

Who says your accent “wall” has to be just one wall? Maybe what you need is an accent corner to turn an overlooked space into the best place in your room. We’d be up for a little time-out in this dramatic but cozy corner.

OMBRE ALL DAY

Image: Kilz

Sure, one bold color is a great look, but for something a little more interesting, go for an ombre effect. It looks fabulous whether you use different shades of just one color or go for something like this gorgeous combo designed to evoke “a summer sunset in Santorini.” Not sure you can pull it off? See this post for directions and paint colors for this and other options. Hint: the one pictured above is called “stormy sea.”

THROW SOME CONFETTI

Image: Rebecca Simon for Maison Ellie

It’s like sprinkles for your wall! This happy effect takes so little paint you can use leftovers or sample sizes. There are several ways to get a confetti effect: you can dip the tip of a small brush in your paint and dab it on the wall, use the end of a kitchen sponge to do the same, or go paint-free and make your mark with washi tape.

GO BOLD

Image:  DazeyDen

Feeling artistic? Treat your wall like a canvas and paint your heart out. (Remember: you can always paint over it.) If you’re not ready to unleash your inner Picasso, check out the multitude of wall murals available. You can stick one on now and peel it off when you’re over it. With thousands of images to choose from, you’re sure to find one you and your room will love.

STENCIL IT

Image: Cutting Edge Stencils

Love the look of wallpaper but don’t want to fuss with trying to get that sticky stuff on the wall? Stencil it! Stencils have come a long way since everyone painted ducks and hearts on everything (we’re looking at you, nineteen eighties). This gorgeous rose pattern is just one of many wallpaper designs you can find from vendors like Cutting Edge Stencils.

ADD TEXTURE

Image: Mark Clement and Theresa Clement

Adding interest doesn’t always mean adding color. You can add “drama and dimension” to a room with texture, as shown here with these wood accents. According to this post from handyman Bob Vila’s website, if you have basic DIY skills you can knock out this accent wall in an afternoon. Even if it takes you a whole weekend, you’ll still end up with a great-looking wall.

We hope you have fun accenting your walls . . . and if you decide even one wall is too much to tackle on your own (we’ve all been there), request a consultation and we’ll be happy to help!