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Small living rooms can often feel cramped and cluttered, but a well-designed accent wall can add character and create the illusion of a larger space. Interior decor experts say one accent wall per room is the best because having too much takes away from the overall effect. A 2021 survey also indicated that many homeowners believe accent walls are a cost-effective way to enhance a room’s look. Explore the ideas below to bring a fresh spark to your living room with accent walls.
Use bold paint
A bold, bright color on an accent wall can make a statement and add depth to a small living room. A sunny yellow accent wall can brighten a room with limited natural light, creating a cheerful, inviting atmosphere. You can pair this with neutral furniture and beige, white, or gray accessories for a balanced look. This effect creates a stark contrast to make your accent wall stand out in a small living room. If you decide to go with a rich navy blue accent wall, pair it with warm wood accents and plush textiles in coordinating tones. That can create a sophisticated atmosphere in your living room. Meanwhile, if you prefer hues of green on an accent wall, combining them with metallic pieces in gold or brass will produce a stylish effect. Many people shy away from bold red accent walls because they may not always exude calmness. Fortunately, the effect can be pleasantly different when mixed with contemporary furniture in softer tones and clean lines.
Consider textured wall covering
Textured wall coverings, such as shiplap, wood paneling, or stone tiles, can add dimension and interest to an accent wall in a small living room. For example, a shiplap accent wall adds a touch of coastal charm, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Pair this textured wall covering with natural wood furniture and accessories in shades of white and blue for a beachy look. On the other hand, wood paneling can help create a rustic charm in a small living room. Try to combine this with a dark stained paneling accent wall to add sophistication. If you prefer light-stained paneling, that will be an excellent way to bring an airy feeling into your small living room. Apart from paneling, pine wall planks can brighten up your space and infuse character into your small living room. Being limited in physical space doesn’t take away from the creative ideas you can play around with. Depending on your style, you can choose a minimalist or maximalist design.
Include a gallery wall
A gallery wall can be a focal point in a small living room, adding interest and character to an accent wall. In many households, a gallery wall displays family photos. These pictures are often in black and white or sepia to add a personal touch to your small living room. You can also mix in a few vintage frames for an eclectic feel. Another option for a gallery wall is an art collection. The size of your living room should feed into what goes up on your walls. It’s understandable if you want a bit of everything on your gallery wall. In that case, consider grouping pieces by color or style to bring them all together. Mixing and matching can be tastefully done if you research how to use decorative mirrors on a gallery wall.
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