An accent wall can give your room a focal point that draws the eye with a different paint color, texture, or pattern. This technique is both stylish and effective, and it can even make your room look bigger. However, this design also must be done correctly to avoid decor clashes, so follow these do’s and don’ts to get the most from your upgrade.

Do:

Match the accent.

An accent wall usually has a paint color that’s different from your other walls, but that color doesn’t have to only appear once. You can match the accent with other items throughout the room, such as cushions, rugs, or artwork. This will give your space a sense of flow and continuity.

Choose the wall carefully.

The location that you choose for your accent wall is very important. It should be in an area without other eye-catching features, as these can take attention away from the accent and make the room's design feel cluttered.

Get creative.

There’s more to creating an accent wall than simply painting it a different color from the others. It should add a lot to your space and capture attention when people enter the room. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and use something unusual, such as metallic paints or a bold pattern.

Don’t:

Use a window wall unless it really works.

An accent wall could frame a window with a great view, but there are disadvantages to this design choice. Strong sunlight can reduce the impact of dark paint colors, and a window with a dark surround could create an unpleasant bright light effect.

Forget the rest of the room.

While your accent wall should stand out, it also has to match with the other walls, the ceiling, and the decor. The most common pairing is a strong color for your accent wall and more neutral colors for other surfaces, but your preferences should dictate your final design.

Fear bold colors.

It can be daunting to opt for a bold color such as bright red or orange, but if this design appeals to you, it shouldn't be feared. The only time to be cautious is if you plan on selling your property in the next few years, in which case a more subtle design might have broader appeal.

If you’re ready to create an accent wall, talk to a paint color expert with a wide selection to choose from. Fairbanks Paint & Glass in Alaska supplies indoor and outdoor paints, as well as speciality coatings, so they certainly have what you need for this project. To learn more, call (907) 456-7758 or visit their website.