Creating a nursery for your little one is an exciting time, filled with endless possibilities for designing a space that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. One design element that has become increasingly popular in recent years is the nursery accent wall.
If you're wondering what to add to a nursery accent wall, you can add a variety of colors, textures, and other unique touches to an otherwise plain space. Making this wall the first one you see when you enter the room creates a warm and comforting atmosphere that is perfect for your baby's new room.
When choosing a style for your nursery accent wall, you can opt for a subtle approach, such as a soft pastel shade, or go all out with a bold graphic design. Whatever your preference, you will find various ideas for colors, textures, and themes that might work in your home here.
Wallpaper Accent Wall
To bring playfulness to your nursery, choose a bold nursery-themed wallpaper like the charming pink-and-white fairy theme pictured. Ideal for any whimsical nursery, it pairs well with white furniture and accessories such as a white crib and cute stuffed animals. Have fun arranging these adorable items and enjoy a cozy, inviting space for your little one.
Geometric Shapes
Introduce a modern touch to your nursery with contrasting geometric shapes painted on the wall. This dynamic visual effect stimulates your child's senses in spaces like this vibrant, brightly-lit room with colorful walls and cheerful furnishings. Add a comfy chair, storage solutions, and a soft rug for a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Chalkboard Wall
A chalkboard wall encourages creativity and engagement, providing a fun, interactive space in the nursery. Complement this black-painted wall with contrasting white furniture, like a crib and dresser. Add a teddy bear, chalkboard, or mirrors for more interest, and complete the room with gentle lighting and a cozy chair.
Board and Batten
Achieve a sophisticated, classic look in your nursery with a board and batten accent wall painted in a soft, contrasting color. Enhance the design with green walls, white furniture, and olive accents. Include a comfortable rocking chair, a small table, and a welcoming white crib to create a space filled with warmth and comfort.
Wood Accent Wall
Bring warmth, texture, and character to your nursery with a rustic reclaimed wood accent wall. Complement the natural element with a black crib, white swivel chair, and ottoman. Add playful touches like a wooden name pennant, a stylish ceiling fan, and an intriguing how-to image, ensuring a cozy and nurturing environment.
Mural or Hand-painted Scene
Immerse your child's imagination in a unique, hand-painted mural with whimsical scenes or characters. This creative accent wall, featuring a cozy white crib, giraffe plushie, and teddy bear indicates an inviting space for kids. Soft blankets, pillows, and natural light make this minimalist room warm and comforting.
Stencil Art
For a cost-effective and customizable design, apply stencil art to your nursery's accent wall. Update and personalize the room as your child grows using various playful patterns and motifs. Complete the space with a plush bed, colorful rug, chic hanging chair, and ample storage for a lively and inviting environment.
Gallery Wall
Showcase your child's personality with a gallery wall of framed artwork, photos, and sentimental items. Create visual interest using various frame sizes and styles. In this bear-themed room, versatile furniture and decor accompany the white crib, providing a playful and welcoming atmosphere suitable for any young explorer.
Fabric or Tapestry
Achieve a soft, cozy feel in your nursery with a large fabric piece or tapestry accent wall. Select a design or pattern that complements the theme, like this bird-themed alphabet wall hanging. Combine soothing colors, comfortable furniture, and greenery for a serene atmosphere perfect for relaxation.
Color Block
Brighten your nursery with a color-blocked accent wall using contrasting paint colors. Adding visual interest and defining the space, this lively pop of color complements a pink and white theme. Include a cozy crib, elegant canopy, comfy seating, and playful furnishings to create an inviting oasis for your little one.
Stripes or Chevron
To enhance the depth and dimension of your nursery, consider painting horizontal or vertical stripes or a chevron pattern on the accent wall. Complement your nursery's palette for a cohesive look. Ideal for a playful or contemporary space, this design works well with wooden furniture, whimsical toys, and starry wall decorations. Finish off with a comfy couch in the corner for snuggles and storytime with your little one.
Polka Dots
Imbue the nursery with a joyful atmosphere by applying polka dots of varying sizes and colors on the accent wall. This whimsical touch pairs well with neutral room tones and white furniture. Accessorize with comfy rattan chairs, polka dot pillows, and shelves displaying stuffed animals and children's books. This light-hearted idea is perfect for inspiring creativity in your bundle of joy.
Ombre Effect
Create a serene, soothing environment in the nursery by blending two or more paint colors in an ombre effect along the accent wall. Place white furniture, like a crib and rocking chair, against this backdrop, and add potted plants and animal-themed decor for a sense of comfort. Framed floral prints and pastel hues will further enhance your little one's calming retreat.
Textured Paint
Emphasize depth and visual appeal with textured paint or plaster on the accent wall of the nursery. Perfect for an opulent space, this design complements plush seating, layered textiles, and eye-catching artwork. Accent with monochromatic accessories and furniture, such as a white dresser and storage shelf. A pop of greenery, like an ivy plant, adds a finishing touch to this luxurious nursery.
Floating Shelves
Incorporating floating shelves on the accent wall adds functionality and a visually engaging focal point to the nursery. Arrange children's books, toys, and decor items on the shelves for a versatile display. Pair this idea with a white or pastel-themed room, a soft floor rug, comfy armchair, and baby carriage for a cozy, yet organized, space.
Vinyl Wall Decals
For a simple, customizable nursery design, apply removable vinyl wall decals on the accent wall. Choose from a range of colors, themes, and patterns, such as adorable animals, to create a personalized space. Pair this playful accent with wooden furniture, soft pillows, and cute figurines for a heartwarming environment perfect for your little one.
Brick or Stone Veneer
Bring warmth and character into the nursery with a brick or stone veneer accent wall. Ideal for rustic or industrial-inspired spaces, this look can be softened with a pastel color palette, a plush rug, and striped bedding. Accessorize with charming wall art and an antique-style dresser for a room that feels inviting and stylish.
Wainscoting or Beadboard
For a classic, timeless look, add wainscoting or beadboard to the lower portion of your nursery accent wall, and paint it in a contrasting color for added visual interest. Opt for plush fabrics and soft colors to create a cozy, welcoming ambiance in the space. Complete this traditional design with a modern rocking chair and ottoman for your baby's nursery.
Quilted Wall Hanging
Celebrate family traditions by displaying a handmade or store-bought quilt on the nursery accent wall. This cozy, nostalgic touch adds texture and color to the room, enhancing the comforting environment. Pair with a soft canopy crib, stuffed animals, and a wooden shelf adorned with plants and toys for a timeless, heartwarming space to nurture your child.
Lighted Letters
Illuminate your child's name or initials on the nursery accent wall with lighted marquee letters for a personalized focal point that doubles as a nightlight. Create a peaceful atmosphere with soft blue and white tones, plush toys, and comfortable seating. Accessorize with a rocking horse and dresser for added functionality in this dreamy nursery setting.
Pegboard Wall
Create a fun and customizable nursery with a pegboard wall for hanging toys and decor, recommended for any playful aesthetic. Utilize pegs, shelves, and hooks to maximize organization and visual appeal. Consider surrounding the pegboard with complementary decorations for a well-rounded look.
Map or World Theme
Inspire curiosity and a love for exploration in your child with a map or world-themed accent wall. Ideal for a variety of decor styles, incorporating a large map or world design can spark conversations and learning opportunities. Accessorize with themed bedding, a wooden toy plane or globe, and educational posters.
Floral or Botanical Prints
Enhance serenity in a nursery with floral or botanical prints on the accent wall, adding a touch of sophistication to any room. Use muted tones for a calming atmosphere or opt for bolder colors inspired by nature. Complement the design with soft furnishings and natural elements like a rattan chair or wood accents.
Shadow Boxes
Display cherished keepsakes with shadow boxes on the nursery accent wall, creating a unique and personal touch. Suitable for any style, arrange mementos or collectibles for a meaningful focal point. Combine a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors for added visual interest.
Clouds or Sky Theme
Invite relaxation and wonder with a clouds or sky-themed accent wall, perfect for nurseries meant to soothe. Choose paint, decals or wallpaper for a versatile and dreamy atmosphere. Consider incorporating additional celestial elements like stars, moons, or planets to enhance the theme.
Nautical or Coastal Theme
Foster a sense of adventure with a nautical or coastal-themed accent wall in the nursery. Ideal for those who love the sea, use paint, wallpaper, or decor elements to transform the space. Incorporate a mix of traditional maritime and beach-inspired items such as ship wheels, anchors, and seashells for an immersive experience.
Framed Quotes or Typography
Instill positive values in your child with framed quotes or typography for the nursery accent wall. Adding a personal touch, select meaningful, inspirational, or motivational phrases. Mix and match colors, styles, and fonts for an engaging and cohesive look, suitable for any decor style.
Animal or Safari Theme
Encourage curiosity and learning with an animal or safari-themed accent wall. Paint, decals or wallpapers showcasing animals and natural habitats can create a captivating and educational nursery. Embellish the space with plush animals, faux fur rugs or throw pillows, and tropical plants.
Mirror Wall
Enhance the nursery with a collection of decorative mirrors on the accent wall, reflecting light and creating the illusion of a larger space. Select mirrors in varying sizes, shapes, and styles for added visual interest. Complement the design with other reflective surfaces or metallic accents for a cohesive look.
Texture or Pattern Mixing
Showcase your unique style with a mix of textures or patterns on the nursery accent wall. Combining designs adds depth and character, suitable for those who love bold and dynamic interiors. Carefully balance shapes and colors for a visually engaging yet harmonious atmosphere.
Emily Hilton
Emily is a young, talented designer, whose professional interests gravitate towards kitchen and dining spaces. She prides herself on her attention to detail, obsession with functionality, and appreciation for craftsmanship.
