By Kristen Schwartz, Design Consultant
I was asked recently if accents walls were going out of style. How could something that breathes new life into a room possibly go out of style? This one small, & usually very easy, change can anchor your design scheme, formalize your layout & add instant wow factor. You don’t need a large budget or an entire weekend to create a stylish accent wall: just your imagination and maybe one of my go-to ideas.
Wallpaper…
I feel wallpaper got a bad rap for many years; thought of only in terms of stuffy homes & floral overload. It was also difficult to hang (so messy!) & even harder to remove. With the introduction of peel & stick versions anyone can hang, reposition & remove with very little trouble. Pick a wall, hang, & then repeat the colors throughout the rest of the room. The peachy-tangerine color in the wallpaper is repeated in the throw pillows as well as in the artwork & pendant light creating a seamless flow of color theme in this beautiful breakfast nook.
Nature Inspired…
These days I’m loving anything that brings the outside in – stone, wood, greenery – yes please! If all things nature make you smile too, look no further than these textural accents to create an accent wall in your home. Check out fun panels such as wood, stone & PVC on Wayfair.com or AllModern.com. These panels offer so much variety that there is something for every taste or decorating whim.
Architectural Interest…
Who says depth & architectural interest can only be found in older homes? With a little time (or a handyman) you too can have a cool accent wall that looks like was always part of your home. Depth & texture can be achieved in so many ways. Real Simple recently featured a great example created with plywood, drywall & a limewash paint – simply gorgeous! Other ways to create architectural interest include using mirror panels, 3D tiles, murals, vinyl decals, all-over stripes (created with paint or Washi tape) & even upholstery. The only thing that limits the possibilities is your imagination!
Hidden Storage…
An accent wall doesn’t have to be strictly fabulous; it can be functional too. A recent project gave me the opportunity to design a wall that is not only a showstopper but also conceals a pantry & utility closet. The white oak custom accent panels along with the white oak accent shelves lend a sleek, contemporary vibe against the Iron Ore (SW 7069) wall & cabinet color.
So, have accent walls gone out of vogue? Absolutely not! Pick a wall, decide on the accent feature that best reflects your style & have fun! All Built by Design clients work with me to make their design decisions so that their newly remodeled spaces exude their unique personality & coordinate with the overall design aesthetic. I can help you create an accent wall you’ll love & your neighbors will envy! We’d love to be part of your next remodeling adventure. Visit us at BuiltbyDesignKC.com to learn more about us & to fill out a Request a Bid form.