Changing the vibe of your personal space is doable with a bit of paint.
Accent walls are the perfect way to shake things up a little bit. If you don’t have the time and resources to repaint your home’s interior, adding an accent wall is a practical way to do it.
As such, Jeff Schultz Painting has some tips in creating accent walls. Discover the do’s and dont’s and some helpful tips if you plan to do this.
What Is an Accent Wall?
An accent wall can be an exterior or interior wall with a different design, color, or material to the walls surrounding it. Because of their versatility, these stylish and straightforward color accents are sure to be in demand.
Accent walls are also known as feature walls. They are usually a deep or contrasting color that draws attention to a particular feature of the home. You can use them to add color or texture to a room’s walls.
Do’s and Dont’s When Creating Accent Walls
Accent walls can bring elegance and drama to any space by creating a focal point. This is a cheap paint project that will increase the visual appeal of your living area. Before you get to work, here are some do’s and don’ts for a perfect outcome:
1. Do choose the right wall.
Consider your accent wall carefully. Even in rooms without an architectural element, accent wall paint ideas can still be helpful. It is important to remember that dark accent colors can overwhelm the room and create brighter light effects.
2. Don’t shy away from bold colors.
If you have the right accents, you can pick any color that makes you happy. Bold colors are a bold choice. But if your decor color palette will complement your preferred accent color, go for it!
3. Do go for an accent wall in a neutral room.
Even if your room is neutral, feature walls can still be a good idea. While accent wall colors may initially conjure up bright red or blue images, a dark wall can look just as dramatic in a neutral color scheme.
4. Don’t forget about texture.
Aside from paint, you can also put framed photos or install shelving to add a dramatic flair in your home. Add any architectural feature so your accent wall ideas don’t feel out of place.
5. Do think beyond solid colors.
When you’re thinking about your accent wall, think outside the box. There are many other options than just painting the wall with wall paint. You can also use paint colors for accent walls in other ways.
You can use stripes on your accent wall or choose a specialty finish for the paint. Metallics can make a strong style statement on an accent wall.
6. Don’t just think about walls.
Have you ever thought about the ceiling? One trendy decorating idea is to color the ceiling. Accent ceilings can come in various colors, including vivid or soft colors. White crown molding creates an elegant look by separating the ceiling from the wall.
7. Do consider the color of your other walls.
Consider the color of your walls. Feature walls placed near walls with light or medium colors look the best. Contrasting bright accent walls with white walls can make a room look modern or even stark. An accent wall in an all-white room can be stunning, but it can also prove to be tricky.
Accent Wall Tips for Different Rooms
1. Bedroom
A comfortable bedroom is a common design goal for homeowners. However, it doesn’t mean that you should exclude a playful sense of style! You can play with the space by painting accents that are slightly smaller than the wall.
Are you feeling a bit more daring? You can add a painted striped accent wall to any room for an exciting graphic element that will energize the space.
2. Kitchen
A black accent wall instantly adds style to any space. In contrast with white, dark accent wall colors stand out in well-lit rooms and offer a striking contrast. Practically speaking, darker paint colors hide dirt.
3. Living Room
Are you unsure how to choose the accent wall for your living area? A solid wall, without windows or doors, is the best choice. Also, darker paint colors for accent walls adds drama.
You can add a gallery wall or large mirror to an accent wall to draw the eye to create a focal point. If you are looking for depth in color, use premium paint.
How to Do It: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Select the wall.
Consider where you want to draw attention before deciding on the accent wall. It is as simple as looking at where your eye goes when you enter a space.
Step 2: Choose the sheen and color.
It is a good idea to look at your room before deciding on a color. You might consider a color similar to your upholstery fabric or artwork for feature walls.
Opting for a very bright or dark color will add drama. A neutral color will give the wall a subtle focus that doesn’t distract from artwork and furniture.
Step 3: Calculate how much paint you need.
To calculate how much paint you will need, multiply your wall’s total width by your ceiling height to determine the area to be painted. One gallon may suffice, depending on the size of your accent wall. However, you will need several coats if you use dark, deep colors.
Step 4: Prepare the room.
Place furniture in the middle of the room and remove it. Cover it with drop cloths. Also, lay dropcloths or roofing tarps down on the floor. Remove all fixtures, switches plates, and outlet covers.
Use painter’s tape to protect windowsills and baseboards, doors hinges, ceiling perimeter, and any other areas you don’t wish to paint.
Step 5: Prime the wall before painting.
Although you don’t need to paint primer, it will help improve paint coverage and make the paint last longer. Prime your walls before you paint, especially if they are stained, or you plan to paint a lighter color on top of dark walls.
Step 6: Clean the room.
Take your drop cloths and tarps, then close your paint cans. Don’t forget to dispose of old paint cans. Warm, soapy water is sufficient to clean brushes and other instruments. Make sure to rinse the roller cover and brushes with water until it runs clear.
Choose Jeff Schultz Painting
If you’re planning to put your accent wall paint ideas to the test, call us!
Our house painters in Sarasota, FL, know how to paint an accent wall. We have the skills and experience to elevate your home’s interior. Over the years, we have developed an eye for the right color and pattern combinations.
We can’t wait to serve you!
