Bold paints, wallpaper, wooden panelling: Accent walls can get your home Diwali ready on a budget

Accent walls aren’t limited to bedrooms and living rooms. (Image: Canva)

If you want to do something transformational in your home for Diwali and the upcoming festival season, but don’t want to go all out on your budget or don’t want the headache of a full-blown renovation at this time, you can think of doing an accent wall.

An accent wall is a single wall within a room that is designed differently from the others. They are done typically using a contrasting colour, material, or texture and can create a simple yet impactful focal point in your home without being overwhelming.

Choosing the right colour, the right place and the right texture is important. Whether it’s a bold colour, wallpaper, wood panelling, or even a mural, you can choose any technique to create an accent wall to elevate the look of any room with minimal effort.

• Why choose an accent wall?

Additionally, they allow you to introduce vibrant colours or patterns without overwhelming the room. Instead of painting all four walls, an accent wall enables you to experiment with brighter or darker shades while maintaining balance, particularly in smaller rooms or those with limited natural light.

Accent walls can also enhance a room's theme or atmosphere. Whether you’re aiming for a nature-inspired look with botanical prints or a sleek, modern feel with neutral tones, an accent wall brings your design vision to life. They offer an affordable way to transform a space without the need for extensive renovations or new furniture.

• Ideas for creating accent walls

Bold paint colours

The easiest and most straightforward way to create an accent wall is with paint. Choose a bold, contrasting colour that complements the rest of your room’s palette. For example, if your room has neutral tones, a deep navy, emerald green, or bright coral can add a striking visual effect.

Wallpaper

Wallpaper is making a comeback in home decor, offering a wide range of designs, from geometric patterns to nature-inspired prints. A wallpapered accent wall can add texture, depth, and visual interest, making the wall a true centrepiece of the room.

Wood panelling

For a more rustic or contemporary feel, wood panelling or shiplap creates a warm and cosy atmosphere. Wooden accent walls are perfect for living rooms, bedrooms, or even home offices, adding a natural, organic element to the space.

Brick or stone

Exposed brick or faux brick panels can add an industrial or vintage touch to your home. Similarly, stone accent walls offer a luxurious, natural vibe. These materials work well in living rooms, fireplaces, and kitchens, where they can create a rich, textured look.

Textured paint

If you want to add texture but don’t want the commitment of materials like wood or brick, textured paint can achieve a similar effect. Techniques like sponging, rag rolling, or stucco can give your accent wall depth and a unique finish.

Also see | Home decor tips: 7 ways to elevate your home on a budget before the festival season

• Where to place an accent wall

Behind key furniture

One of the most common places for an accent wall is behind a key piece of furniture. In the bedroom, this is usually behind the bed. In the living room, it's often the wall behind the sofa. This placement highlights the focal point of the room, making the furniture and decor stand out.

Entryway or hallway

Accent walls aren’t limited to bedrooms and living rooms. An entryway or hallway is a great place for an accent wall, as it adds character and charm to transitional spaces that are often overlooked.

Staircase wall

A staircase wall offers a prime location for an accent wall. Adding a pop of colour, texture, or artwork along the stairway can transform a mundane area into a visually striking design feature.

Accent walls can be a simple yet effective tool for transforming the look of a room, without going overboard with the budget. Whether through bold colours, wallpaper, textures, or materials, an accent wall can bring personality and vibrancy to your space without overwhelming it. By carefully choosing the design and placement, you can create a focal point that elevates your home’s aesthetic and makes a lasting impression.