DIY accent walls: Ideas for enhancing any space

by Ann Hayward 09/16/2024

Adding texture & style with DIY accent walls featured image

DIY accent walls are a popular choice for upgrading a space. Creating an accent or feature wall can add depth and interest to rooms of any size or shape. For a rewarding DIY project, you might consider adding texture to your chosen wall with wood slats or trim.

Stained slats

Wood slats are a stylish yet simple way to dress up a blank wall. You can arrange them either vertically or horizontally, depending on your preference. Once you cut and sand the slats to size, apply a conditioner and stain to bring out the natural wood grain and color.

This type of wood trim accent wall is incredibly versatile and can fit almost any interior design style. Choosing a stain to match other wood finishes in the space is a great way to create a cohesive aesthetic.

Angled accent wall with wood trim

While most board and batten accent walls use 45 degree angles, you can create a stunning geometric wall design by using a mixture of 30 and 60-degree angles instead. Match the paint color subtle style, or go bold with contrasting shades.

To create this type of DIY wood accent wall, you'll need to draw a design for your angles on paper first. Attach trim pieces with a nail gun and enjoy your new DIY accent wall with a striking geometric pattern.

Smooth your walls

Adding texture is a popular way to create an accent wall, but the key to perfect texture is starting with a smooth surface. Consider using backer board for your wall projects to create a perfectly level canvas for your artistic vision.

Cement backer board works similarly to drywall, but is completely resistant to rot and moisture damage. It's also inexpensive and easy to cut to size using your own tools.

When you think of an accent wall, you may think of a contrasting paint color. However, there are many ways to create texture and depth with other methods like board and batten, shiplap or wall molding. If your space needs some extra style, consider these ideas for creating the perfect accent wall.



About the Author
Author

Ann Hayward

Born in Philadelphia and raised in the suburbs, Ann Hayward got her Pennsylvania real estate license at age 18 even before going to college. This second-generation real estate professional followed in the footsteps of her father and two uncles, inheriting their passion for the business. Licensed in DC, Maryland and Virginia, Ann is accomplished in her career, with numerous designations including SFR, SRES, PSA, WHC, and multiunit Housing Development Finance Professional (HDFP) from the National Development Council. She specializes in Prince Georges and Montgomery Counties, Northern Virginia and Washington, DC, all jurisdictions where Ann has lived and knows very well. In addition to her professional expertise, she owns and manages personal investment property, understands and has been involved in the renovation/remodeling process, and has great resources which she shares with clients. When you hire Ann to represent you, she will make your buying or selling experience an enjoyable, rewarding one. Her compassion, sensitivity to her clients’ needs, eye for detail, and ability to see the big picture when guiding you through a purchase or sale are unique assets that will ensure your success. A diverse and relevant background also gives Ann a distinct edge. For 30 years, she worked in fast-paced, high-pressure television and theatrical production, attaining the highest achievement – DGA membership as a Director, and as an award-winning staff and freelance writer. Her keen audio visual skills and design sense benefit sellers in marketing their properties, and are invaluable in helping buyers see the potential of space. A true renaissance woman, Ann was also an income tax professional and office manager for H&R Block, so she thoroughly understands the tax and financial implications of acquiring and selling real estate. Her superior organizational skills are further evidenced as owner of a downsizing/professional organizing business, Managed For You, which allows her to connect with everyone from millennials to boomers and seniors, whether for small space planning or assisting with major decluttering and transitioning. Ann holds an AB in American History from Simmons College, Boston, plus attended Robert Wagner Graduate School of Public Administration where she was a candidate for Doctorate. She additionally studied Film Direction at the American Film Institute in LA, and was a Stanford University post-graduate Professional Journalism Fellow. Personally, Ann is an avid if not very good golfer, and the co-founder of a nonprofit 501c3 organization offering educational guidance, tutoring and counseling for youngsters from elementary school through college admission. She sits on the board of trustees of a nonprofit educational film production corporation as well. (202) 494-6252 [email protected]