The Guide To The Best Accent Wall Ideas For Your Home
- srcustommasonry
- Apr 22
- 6 min read
Looking for the best accent wall ideas? You've come to the right place. Accent walls are a great way to add personality, brighten up a room, and use color to shape the mood or vibe. But choosing the right design depends a lot on the space you're working with. Natural light, room size, and wall placement can all make a big difference in what will look best. In this post, we’ll walk you through a variety of unique and creative accent wall ideas to help you find the perfect fit for your home.
Accent Wall Ideas
Some of the most popular accent wall ideas right now go beyond just paint or texture—they’re all about creativity and impact. One standout trend is geometric designs. These can be done with paint, molding, tape, or a mix of all three to create bold shapes and patterns. They work especially well in modern spaces or anywhere you want a playful, graphic look. Another popular choice is wallpaper, which has made a huge comeback. From subtle prints to dramatic murals, it’s a great way to add personality without committing to a full-room change.
All of these ideas can completely transform a room, but sometimes the simplest option is still the best. Just painting one wall a different color is by far the most cost-effective way to add interest and style to your space. It doesn’t require special tools, materials, or a big budget—just a can of paint and a little time. Whether you go with a bold hue or a soft, moody tone, a painted accent wall can still make a big impact.
Best Colors for Accent Walls
When it comes to choosing the best colors for accent walls, it really depends on your space and personal style. With that said, some shades tend to rise above the rest. While trends shift every few years, the current wave leans toward calming blues, soft pinks, and a wide range of warm or earthy neutrals. These tones bring just enough contrast to a room without overwhelming it, which is the key to accent walls.
Here are some of the most popular accent wall colors and why people love them:
● Navy Blue – Deep and dramatic, it works well in bedrooms and living rooms for a cozy, grounded feel. We recommend Sherin-Williams Interior Paint Naval (SW 6244).
● Blush Pink – Adds warmth and elegance, especially in bedrooms or creative spaces. Melted Ice Cream (2095-70) by Benjamin Moore is our favorite blush pink recommendation.
● Terracotta – Earthy and warm, perfect for making a room feel inviting without being too bold. We consider Byzantine by Benjamin Moore to be one of the best options when choosing a terracotta tone.
● Sage Green – Soft and calming, this muted green pairs beautifully with natural textures and light wood tones. Try Soft Sage (SW 9647) by Sherwin-Williams if you’re going for a subtle green.
● Charcoal Gray – Modern and moody, a go-to choice for those who want contrast without going quite as dark as black. Cracked Pepper by Behr is a favorite for accent walls and even ceilings right now.
● Warm Beige or Greige – Neutral but not boring—these tones complement most styles and feel current without being too trendy. Shitake (SW 9173) by Sherwin-Williams is our taupe tone preferred choice.
● Stark Black- Bold and classic, black adds instant drama. It pairs beautifully with white for a modern farmhouse or sleek contemporary look. It also works well with natural wood tones and metallic accents, making it a versatile choice for both minimal and bold styles. Tricorn Black (SW 6258) works as an excellent option in any room.
Living Room Accent Wall Ideas
When choosing accent wall colors for your living room or other shared spaces, it's a good idea to stick with colors that sit next to each other on the color wheel. These are known as analogous colors. These combinations create a sense of harmony and flow without feeling too bold or jarring. For example, pairing soft greens with blues, or warm oranges with red tones, can give your space a cozy, pulled-together look. Some of the best analogous color combos include navy blue and teal, sage green and olive, or even burnt orange with terracotta. These blends work especially well in living areas where you want both comfort and style.
Bedroom Accent Wall Ideas
In the bedroom, an accent wall is a great way to create a focal point without overwhelming the space. The most common—and often most effective—spot is the wall behind the bed. It naturally draws the eye and frames the space, making the whole room feel more put together. But that’s not the only option. If your bed is up against a window or off-center, consider using the wall across from the entrance or even the ceiling as your accent surface. Yes, ceiling accent walls are a thing, and they can be stunning when done right.
Some creative ideas for bedroom accent walls include painted arches behind the bed to mimic a headboard, two-tone paint with a chair rail or trim, or even stenciled or color-blocked shapes to add a little personality. Materials like upholstered panels, peel-and-stick wallpaper, or slatted wood can also bring texture and coziness to the space without the need for a full renovation.
As for trending bedroom colors, soft and soothing tones are in. Think deep emerald green, muted navy, smoky mauve, and warm terracotta. These shades help create a calm, relaxing feel, exactly what you want in a space meant for rest. Dusty blues, soft blush, and warm greige are also popular if you prefer something lighter and more neutral. These colors pair well with cozy textures and layered bedding, helping your accent wall feel like a natural part of the room’s design.
Bathroom Accent Wall Ideas
Accent walls aren’t just for bedrooms and living rooms—bathrooms are the perfect place to get creative. A bold or soothing color on one wall can totally shift the feel of the space. Here are a few standout color duos that work especially well:
● Powder Blue + Crisp White – Clean, calm, and timeless. Plus, studies have shown that homes with light blue bathrooms can actually sell for more.
● Charcoal Gray + Soft Blush – A modern combo with contrast and elegance, great for guest baths or primary suites.
● Forest Green + Warm Taupe – Earthy and grounding with just enough edge. Works well with brass fixtures or wood accents.
● Black + White Tile – For a timeless, graphic look that pops. Especially great in small bathrooms with natural light.
Brick Accent Walls
Brick accent walls add warmth, texture, and character to a space. They work especially well in living rooms, dining areas, home offices, or entryways. They’re a great option anywhere you want a focal point with a bit of rustic or industrial charm. If you’re going for a cozy, vintage vibe or want to add depth to a modern space, brick is a great choice. It can also help balance out more polished or minimal decor by introducing natural texture.
When it comes to using real brick versus brick veneer for an accent wall, both have their pros and cons. Full brick walls offer more authenticity and sound insulation, but they’re heavier, more expensive, and require structural support. Brick veneers, on the other hand, are thinner and much easier to install. They give you the same look as real brick without the extra weight or cost. For most homes, especially when updating an interior wall, brick veneer is usually the better option. It’s more flexible, DIY-friendly, and comes in a variety of colors and styles to match your space.
Wood Panels For Accent Walls
There’s something about wood that instantly makes a room feel more comfortable and lived-in. Using it on an accent wall is a great way to bring in that natural element. Wood panels can look sleek and modern, or warm and rustic—it really depends on the style you choose. They’re a great fit for spaces like bedrooms, home offices, or even small entryways that need a little something extra.
Think beyond basic paneling. Vertical slats can give a clean, contemporary feel. Reclaimed boards tell a story and add tons of character. You can even paint or whitewash the wood for a softer, more relaxed look. Whitewashing works especially well if you want a coastal or farmhouse vibe, and it’s a great way to refresh older wood without hiding the grain. Whether it’s the backdrop to your bed, your desk, or your favorite reading chair, a wood accent wall has a way of pulling everything together.
Best Accent Wall Ideas Conclusion
Accent walls give you a chance to get creative and personalize your space in a way that feels fresh and intentional. If you're considering an accent wall or have other masonry projects in the Salt Lake City area, reach out to our team at S & R Masonry. From brick veneers to custom stonework, we’re here to help with all your masonry needs—bringing experience, attention to detail, and craftsmanship to every job.
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