An accent wall is often used to make a room feel more lively or stylish. By adding wallpaper to just one wall, the space can be transformed without overwhelming the eyes. It’s like giving your room a fun hat to wear—it stands out but doesn’t cover everything!
Wallpaper is also great at hiding flaws. If a wall has small cracks or uneven texture, the patterned paper can cover it up like magic. Plus, it’s a way to add personality to a room without repainting everything.
1. Why is Wallpaper a better choice than Paint for Accent Walls?
Wallpaper is loved for its patterns, textures, and ease of use. Unlike paint, which only gives color, wallpaper can add depth, art, or even a story to your wall. It’s often chosen for its ability to look fancy without needing a paintbrush!
For example, a floral wallpaper can make a bedroom feel like a garden, while a geometric design can turn a living room into a modern art gallery. Wallpaper also lasts longer than paint in some cases because it’s less likely to chip or fade over time.
Can a wallpaper accent wall be a budget-friendly upgrade?
Absolutely. Wallpaper is sometimes seen as a cheap and cheerful way to refresh a room. Many options are sold at low prices, and some can even be stuck on and removed without damage.
If you’re renting, peel-and-stick wallpaper is perfect. It costs less than hiring a painter and can be taken down when you move out. Even high-end wallpapers can be affordable if you only cover one wall instead of the whole room.
2. How to Create an Accent Wall with Wallpaper – A Step-by-Step Guide
Which wall should I choose for my wallpaper accent?
The best wall is usually picked because it’s the first one seen when entering a room. Walls behind beds, sofas, or fireplaces are often chosen as focal points.
If your room has architectural features like a window seat or built-in shelves, those walls can also be great choices. Avoid walls with too many outlets or switches—they make installation harder.
How do I prepare my wall before applying wallpaper?
The wall must be cleaned and dried. Any holes or cracks are filled and sanded smooth. A primer might be painted onto help the wallpaper stick better.
Steps to prep your wall:
- Clean the wall: Use a damp cloth to wipe away dust or dirt.
- Fix imperfections: Fill cracks with spackle and sand them down.
- Prime the wall: Apply a primer made for wallpapering. This helps the adhesive stick better.
What’s the correct way to measure and cut wallpaper?
The wallpaper is measured to fit the wall, with extra added for mistakes. It’s then cut using a sharp tool, like a utility knife or scissors.
Here’s how to do it:
- Measure the wall: Use a measuring tape to find the height and width.
- Add extra inches: Add 2–3 inches to the height to account for trimming.
- Cut carefully: Lay the wallpaper flat and cut with a straight edge for clean lines.
Should I use adhesive or peel-and-stick wallpaper?
If a permanent look is wanted, adhesive wallpaper is applied to the wall or the paper. For renters or those who like to change things often, peel-and-stick wallpaper is picked for its easy removal. (Learn more about peel-and-stick options here !)
Adhesive wallpaper pros:
- More durable for long-term use.
- Works on textured walls.
Peel-and-stick pros:
- No glue needed—just peel and press.
- Perfect for temporary changes.
How can I apply wallpaper without bubbles or wrinkles?
The wallpaper is smoothed from the center outward using a squeegee or cloth. Bubbles are popped with a pin, and edges are pressed firmly.
Tips for a flawless finish:
- Work slowly: Rushing leads to mistakes.
- Use a smoothing tool: A plastic squeegee helps push out air bubbles.
- Trim edges: Use a utility knife to cut around outlets or corners.
3. Best Wallpaper Types for Accent Walls
What type of wallpaper is most durable for accent walls?
Vinyl wallpaper is known for being tough and easy to clean. It’s often chosen for high-traffic areas like living rooms or hallways.
Vinyl is water-resistant, so it can be wiped clean if it gets dirty. It’s also thick enough to hide wall imperfections.
Is textured wallpaper a good option for depth and style?
Yes! Textured wallpaper adds a “touchable” feel to walls. It’s used to create warmth or hide small wall imperfections.
Types of textured wallpaper:
- Grass cloth: Made from natural fibers for an organic look.
- Flock: Soft,velvet-like texture that feels luxurious.
- 3D designs: Raised patterns that create shadows and drama.
Can renters use removable wallpaper safely?
Definitely. Removable wallpaper is stuck on with a gentle adhesive and pulled off without damaging the walls. It’s perfect for temporary changes.
Removable wallpaper is often made of vinyl or fabric. It’s available in thousands of patterns, from minimalist to bold.
Are patterned wallpapers better than solid colors?
It depends on the room’s style. Bold patterns are used to energize a space, while solids create calm. Stripes can make ceilings look taller, and florals add softness.
Pattern tips:
- Small rooms: Use small-scale patterns to avoid feeling cramped.
- Big rooms: Go bold with large prints or murals.
- Match furniture: A floral wallpaper pairs well with neutral couches.
Do eco-friendly wallpaper options exist?
Yes! Some wallpapers are made from recycled materials or printed with non-toxic inks. These are chosen by those who care about the planet.
Look for:
- Natural materials: Bamboo, grass cloth, or cork.
- Water-based inks: Safe for kids and pets.
- FSC-certified paper: Sustainably sourced wood pulp.
4. Accent Wall Ideas for Living Rooms, Bedrooms & More
What bold wallpaper ideas work for modern living rooms?
Geometric shapes, metallic finishes, or abstract art are often selected for a modern vibe. These designs catch the eye and make a room feel trendy.
Try:
- Ombre gradients: Colors that fade smoothly from light to dark.
- Metallic accents: Gold or silver patterns that catch the light.
- Abstract brushstrokes: Artistic designs that feel unique.
How can floral wallpaper transform a bedroom?
Floral prints are used to add romance or whimsy to bedrooms. Soft pinks, greens, or blues are picked for a calming effect.
For a vintage look, try:
- Retro florals: Smaller blooms with muted colors.
- Large-scale flowers: Dramatic petals that feel like a garden.
- Monochrome patterns: Black-and-white florals for a chic twist.
Are nature murals suitable for nurseries or kids’ rooms?
Yes! Murals of forests, oceans, or stars are loved in children’s spaces. They’re used to spark imagination and create a playful mood.
Ideas for kids’ rooms:
- Animal themes: Lions, giraffes, or dinosaurs.
- Space adventures: Planets, rockets, and stars.
- Underwater scenes: Fish, coral reefs, and seashells.
What dark wallpaper styles suit home offices?
Deep blues, greens, or charcoal grays are chosen for home offices. These colors are believed to boost focus and give a grown-up feel.
Dark wallpaper works best with:
- Bright lighting: To avoid feeling gloomy.
- Metallic accents: Brass or gold frames and lamps.
- Wood furniture: Warm tones like oak or walnut.
Can minimalist designs still make a statement?
Absolutely. Simple lines, neutral tones, or tiny patterns are used to add subtle interest without being too loud.
Minimalist ideas:
- Thin stripes: Vertical or horizontal lines in soft gray or beige.
- Geometric shapes: Triangles or circles in a single color.
- Subtle textures: Linen or burlap-like finishes.
5. Tips for Choosing the Right Wall for Your Wallpaper Feature
How do I identify the best focal point for an accent wall?
Look for walls that are already special, like those with windows, artwork, or furniture in front of them. These walls are often highlighted with wallpaper.
Ask yourself:
- Which wall draws attention first?
- Is there a natural focal point like a fireplace or TV?
- Does the wall face the room’s entryway?
Should I avoid wallpapering a wall with busy surroundings?
Yes. Too many colors or patterns nearby can clash with the wallpaper. Neutral furniture or decor is chosen to balance a bold wall.
For example:
- Pair a floral wallpaper with white furniture.
- Use a black-and-white mural with colorful art.
Does lighting affect how wallpaper looks on a wall?
Light is important! Bright rooms make dark wallpapers glow, while dim rooms need lighter colors to avoid feeling gloomy.
Test your wallpaper in different lights:
- Natural light: Place a sample in the room for a day.
- Artificial light: Check how it looks at night with lamps or ceiling lights.
How does ceiling height influence wallpaper placement?
Tall ceilings allow for large patterns. Low ceilings work better with vertical stripes or small designs to avoid feeling cramped.
For high ceilings:
- Use large-scale murals or oversized patterns.
For low ceilings: - Choose small dots or thin lines to make the room feel taller.
Do neutral walls help balance a bold accent wall?
Yes! If the accent wall is wild, the other walls are painted white, gray, or beige to keep the room from looking messy.
Neutral colors act as a “pause button” for the eyes, letting the accent wall shine without overwhelming the space.
6. Final Thoughts: Transform Your Space with Style
Is it worth investing time and effort into a wallpaper accent wall?
Yes! Even small changes can make a big difference. A wallpaper accent wall is a quick way to show off your personality and style.
Think of it like this: If your room is a book, the accent wall is the cover. It’s the first thing people notice, and it tells them what kind of story your space holds.
Should I be afraid to experiment with bold designs?
No! If a design isn’t loved forever, removable wallpaper can be swapped out. Try something fun—you might love it!
Remember, you don’t need to follow trends. Pick a wallpaper that makes you happy, even if it’s not “in style.” After all, you’re the one who gets to enjoy it every day.
How can sharing your design journey inspire others?
Photos of your finished wall can be shared online or with friends. Maybe your bold choice will help someone else take the leap!
7. Frequently Asked Questions About Wallpaper Accent Walls
Peel-and-stick or vinyl options are often recommended for their ease of use and durability.
Yes! Accent walls are meant to stand out, so only one wall is usually covered.
Dark colors can shrink a space, while light or vertical patterns can make it feel larger.
Yes! They’re updated with new trends like 3D textures, eco-friendly materials, and smart color combos.
Peel-and-stick versions are pulled off gently. Traditional wallpaper is soaked with water or a remover solution to loosen the glue.