Accent Wall Colors

White Accent Wall Ideas

White is the go-to, fail-safe option for painting walls. For one, it has a light and airy feel that instantly brightens up a room. Additionally, it serves as the perfect blank backdrop for other hues and elements to stand out. But, what if your walls are already painted in a color you like? In this case, switch up the look with a single white wall, making for a surprisingly great accent wall.

When used as an accent wall, this achromatic color can add contrast to bold-colored walls, draw the eye to the features you want to highlight, and bring a new character to a room without interrupting soft color schemes. Instead of a plain white accent wall, take it to the next level with textured panels, functional storage solutions, and other fun accessories. Explore the variety of ideas below for inspiration and tips on the best colors that go with it.

Incorporate Textured Panels

Incorporate Textured Panels
Credits: George Panel

To elevate your room's character and depth, incorporate textured panels like 3D wall panels or faux brick on a white accent wall. Perfect for modern living rooms, the unique focal point enhances any contemporary decor. The featured photo showcases an elegant white marble wall, which complements beige furniture and stylish ornaments. For a cohesive look, consider matching shades for your accessories, such as artwork or a sleek pedestal.

Install Shiplap Accent Wall

Install Shiplap Accent Wall
Credits: PARK & OAK

For a rustic, farmhouse-inspired touch, install shiplap on a white accent wall in your entryway or living room. This understated backdrop works well with wooden flooring and metal accents, as seen in the photo. You can mix and match texture with a jute rug, cozy seating, and warm lighting. Conservationally place wall art on well-chosen spots to emphasize the room's design.

Hang Gallery Wall

Hang Gallery Wall
Credits: Ariyona Interior

To make a bold statement, create a gallery wall on your white accent wall with a mix of artwork, photographs, or wall decor in varying sizes and frame styles. Ideal for dining rooms, this creative approach brings personality to your space. The image features a round table framed by black and white chairs, with a gold chandelier as the centerpiece. The surrounding walls display a striking collection of black and white photographs.

Introduce Bold Patterns

Introduce Bold Patterns
Credits: HappyWall

Inject personality into your room using bold patterns like geometric shapes or floral motifs on a white accent wall. Suitable for a stylish office or reading nook, stencils or wallpaper create an energetic atmosphere. The featured image showcases a striking geometric pattern, which complements a comfortable gray chair, wooden side table, and cozy blanket. Round off the look with green plants and decorative elements for a lively touch.

Create a Vertical Garden

Create a Vertical Garden
Credits: Tarek Ashraf

Incorporate a touch of nature in your room using a vertical garden on a white accent wall. You can use hanging planters, shelves, or a modular system for displaying a variety of greenery in spaces like cozy balconies or living rooms. Consider wooden tables and comfortable seating to complement potted plants and green elements. A mix of materials, such as wicker and marble, adds depth to your arrangement.

Incorporate Molding Designs

Incorporate Molding Designs
Credits: Berkeley Group

Add elegance to your white accent wall with molding designs like wainscoting, picture frames, or crown molding. This is perfect for serene, well-lit bedrooms aiming for an airy and clean ambiance. The example photo features white walls adorned with abstract paintings in blue and green shades, which brings character to the space. Add crisp linens and fluffy pillows to evoke comfort and relaxation.

Utilize Floating Shelves

Utilize Floating Shelves
Credits: COCO LAPINE DESIGN

For a minimalist and functional look, install white floating shelves on a white accent wall. Ideal for living rooms or libraries, the shelves can display books or decorative items, keeping the room organized. The image showcases a clean, modern space with neutral tones and boasts spacious floating shelves bathed in natural light. Consider placing accent furniture nearby to complement this clean-lined arrangement.

Create a Wall Mural

Create a Wall Mural
Credits: Etsy

Transform your white accent wall with a custom wall mural, either commissioned or DIY, that complements your room's theme. This striking feature fits well in living rooms with cozy seating arrangements and elements that evoke warmth. Pick subjects with matching hues, like botanical or landscape motifs, to form a cohesive aesthetic. In the photo, a vibrant green wall mural harmonizes with the surrounding furniture and color palette.

Incorporate Mirrors

Incorporate Mirrors
Credits: SPACES / ARCHITECTS

Enhance the room's light and create an illusion of space by hanging a large mirror or a collection of smaller mirrors on your white accent wall. This works in entryways or hallways with decorative frames for added style. The example image exhibits a modern home with a console table and decorative mirror, which opens up the space. Consider incorporating greenery or light fixtures for a stunning focal point.

Mount a Statement Light Fixture

Mount a Statement Light Fixture
Credits: Nada Shehab

Add an element of sophistication by installing a statement light fixture on the white accent wall, such as a sconce, pendant, or chandelier. Ideal for lavish lobbies or spacious living rooms, this focal point can create dramatic ambience. In the featured photo, a luxurious setting is achieved by combining white marble floors, gold accents, and an ottoman with an ornate light fixture on the white wall.

Add a Textile Wall Hanging

Add a Textile Wall Hanging
Credits: Brooklin Interiors

To bring warmth and depth to your dining room, hang a textured or patterned textile on a white accent wall. Opt for a piece that complements your space's color palette like the cozy dining room in the photo. This approach adds visual interest and suits various decor styles.

Utilize Oversized Wall Clock

Utilize Oversized Wall Clock
Credits: LUIS LODGE

Make a statement in your eclectic living room with an oversized wall clock on a white accent wall. This functional decor piece, as seen in the photo, adds character and can serve as a conversation starter in any space.

Experiment with Typography

Experiment with Typography
Credits: Etsy

Create a welcoming and inspiring home office by hanging bold typography on a white accent wall. As shown in the photo, a large quote, word art or monogram can personalize your workspace and add intellectual atmosphere.

Incorporate a Blackboard

Incorporate a Blackboard
Credits: Vladimir Dymchenko

For a playful touch, add a blackboard or whiteboard to a white accent wall, especially in kitchens, home offices, or kids' rooms. As depicted in the photo, this versatile feature offers space for notes, messages, or fun doodles.

Use a Bold Accent Color

Use a Bold Accent Color
Credits: Anna Reventlow

Introduce a striking contrast with a bold accent color on a portion of the white accent wall, like the blue walls in the child's bedroom pictured. This can be a geometric design or simple color block, making the space dynamic and playful.

Opt for a Minimalist Design

Opt for a Minimalist Design
Credits: Margarita Voronkova

Embrace minimalism with select wall decor pieces, such as a single artwork or mirror, on a white accent wall. As seen in the sophisticated living room, this approach maintains a clean, uncluttered look and highlights the room's modern aesthetic.

Incorporate a Pegboard Wall

Incorporate a Pegboard Wall
Credits: LTK

Maximize functionality and customization in a home office by installing a white pegboard on the white accent wall. The photo showcases diverse possibilities - from displaying tools and craft supplies to plants and decor pieces.

Experiment with Ombre Effect

Experiment with Ombre Effect
Credits: Contemporist

Add visual interest to your bedroom with a subtle ombre effect on the white accent wall by blending shades of white or gradient colors. As seen in the cozy bedroom, this technique adds depth without overpowering the space.

Incorporate a Built-in Bookshelf

Incorporate a Built-in Bookshelf
Credits: W DESIGN COLLECTIVE

Seamlessly blend storage and decor by installing a white built-in bookshelf on a white accent wall. The living room example demonstrates a sense of depth and functionality, turning your book collection into an attractive display.

Foter Magazine is a premier architecture, decoration, interiors and design website. We inspire and guide you to make your home a more attractive place.

SHARE

Related content