How to Paint an Accent Wall

Who doesn’t love a good a feature wall? I mean, it’s a (relatively) easy way to make a big design statement. Done well, they can also check off a few other design elements like contrast and lines. However, things can quickly get confusing… not to mention tricky when it comes to paint. Over the years, I’ve learned a few things (the hard way mostly), and whether you’re working with open concept or more traditional floor plans, there are some important things to consider for creating feature walls. I know – because I’ve run into a fair amount of these challenges over the years! Here, I’m sharing all my tips on how to paint an accent wall.

corner with black walls, chair, and lamp

Are Accent Walls Still in Style?

Ok, first things first. You might be wondering, “are painted accent walls out of style in 2025?” And my answer would be no. Not really. Not when done well. In fact, they are still on my top Home Updates Under $200 list.

What does that mean? Well, painting an accent wall *just* for the sake of it can feel a little overdone. It seemed like for awhile e’erbody was throwing up feature color walls! But, an intentional, thought out accent wall never goes out of style! (If you’re wondering what did make the out of style list, check out my Outdated Decor Trends.)

I’ve painted my fair share of accent walls and have a few thoughts on how to keep them classic. I’m sharing those tips and ideas here so get your paint brush ready.

1. Choose Wall with Natural End Points

Ok, which wall? This is crucial. Sometimes the accent wall we want is not always the best choice. And sometimes it’s not one wall but more of a corner.

What does this mean? Well, I like to look for walls that have natural end points – meaning a corner or trim or something. This helps it feel intentional and will also make the painting a heckuva lot easier.

I aim to end at an interior corner. If it’s an outside corner, then you’re stuck with the pressure of getting an ultra even straight line where the other color meets (even a pro would struggle with this).

Sometimes, this means that you paint more than just a wall but maybe an entire little corner, like I did here with my office nook. This makes it a nice little cozy corner with natural ending points.

office nook with black accent wall, desk, and chair

2. Use Accent Walls Strategically

Building on finding natural end points, when deciding on where to put an accent wall, you can also choose a space that might need some extra help. Like maybe something in the space just doesn’t feel quite right. Accent walls can work some magic by adding some dimension to a space or visually tricking our eyes.

Here are some ways I use accents strategically:

Paint end of a long hallway or narrow room to “pull” it forward
Add to an otherwise boxy room to feel cozier
Paint half of wall to create visual of headboard or chair rail
Define an area (e.g. this is the office nook portion of bedroom)

3. Do NOT Paint Every Wall a Different Color

Painting accent walls is super satisfying. In fact, it can become a little addictive. But, try to refrain!

This was all the rage in the 80’s and 90’s. We’ve got Dusty Rose on this wall and Sage over here! And why stop with just two bathroom colors – Lavender and Buttercup anyone?

Accent walls are done best in moderation and sprinkled within an overall paint strategy. So if you’re wondering how to make them modern – keep it minimal. Check out my tips for ways to authentically add color in home decor or Paint Color Trends 2025 for more ideas.

4. Black Accent Wall Ideas and Tips

And when it comes to accent walls, there’s usually only one color I ever choose. Black. Give me all the black paint. It might seem a little risky, but honestly I’ve never regretted one single black wall. The trick is to choose neutral black paint. Basically, neutral paint plays well with others. There’s no funny undertones to deal with so it’s more of a safe bet.

Using neutrals leads to an overall cohesive look as our brain will register the switch from a cool to warm color as feeling “off.” My go to black paint colors are Tricorn Black and Iron Ore, both from Sherwin Williams. You can read my side by side comparison on the post Tricorn Black vs. Iron Ore where I show them side by and discuss them at length.

small bedroom decor ideas with black accent wall

5. Accent Wall Alternatives

Feeling like maybe you’re not up for a painting an entire feature wall? Or maybe you’d like to try something different other than a paint accent wall. I have lots ideas for Decorating Empty Walls. There are lots of ways to incorporate the idea of an accent color but mix it up a little.

Interior Door – This can give the same contrast or added color without a big commitment
Half a Wall – Painting just part of the wall is a great way to add visual interest, I did it in the small bedroom pictured above to mimic a headboard and get the eyes moving upward
Cabinets – Have a bank of cabinets? Maybe a pantry, mudroom, or laundry room has a set of cabinets that can serve as a focal point and treated like an accent wall. I used this trick in a beach house and painted storage cabinets Hale Navy, a dark deep blue and it turned into a lovely wall.

Final Thoughts on Accent Walls

So there you go – a few solid tips to make painted accent walls so much easier. Just remember to keep it intentional and look for those natural end points to make your space feel authentic. I hope these tips and ideas help in choosing accent walls!

If you need technical paint help (I know I always do!), check out How to Paint Like a Pro – an HGTV guide with great ideas for a more professional project. And if you’re wondering about the best paint to use, check out my comparison of Sherwin Williams vs Benjamin Moore where I weigh the pros and cons!