Picture this: you walk into your living room, and instead of the same old boring walls, you’re greeted by a stunning, one-of-a-kind accent wall that instantly catches your eye. Sounds pretty amazing, right? Well, my fellow DIY enthusiasts, I’m here to tell you that transforming your living room with a wallpaper accent wall is easier than you might think!
As a full-time blogger and self-proclaimed “cavalier maximalist,” I’ve had my fair share of experience with wallpaper – from dumpster diving for vintage finds to refinishing thrift furniture with bold, eclectic patterns. And let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like the impact a well-executed wallpaper accent wall can have on a space.
Whether you’re looking to add depth, texture, or personalized touch to your living room, this article will explore 11 easy ways to incorporate a wallpaper accent wall that will have your friends and family saying, “Whoa, where did you find that cray-cray wallpaper?!”
Choosing the Right Wallpaper
The first step in your living room makeover is selecting the perfect wallpaper. I know what you’re thinking – wallpaper can be intimidating, but hear me out. With so many patterns, colors, and textures to choose from, there’s a wallpaper out there waiting to become the star of your living room show.
Start by taking a good, hard look at your style and design preferences. Are you drawn to bold graphic patterns or more subtle, textural designs? Do you prefer a moody, cozy vibe or a bright, airy atmosphere? Answering these questions will help you narrow your options and find a wallpaper that truly speaks to you.
Once you’ve got a general idea of the aesthetic you’re going for, it’s time to start exploring! Flip through design magazines, scroll through Pinterest, or head to your local home improvement store to get a feel for the latest wallpaper trends. Trust me, you’ll be amazed at how far wallpaper has come in recent years. Gone are the days of outdated, boring patterns—today’s wallpapers are vibrant, unique, and downright drool-worthy.
As you browse, consider the size and scale of your living room. A large-scale pattern might overwhelm a small space, while a delicate, intricate design could get lost in a grand, open-concept room. Use a tape measure to measure the dimensions of your accent wall, and then use that information to guide your wallpaper selection.
Preparing the Accent Wall
Now that you’ve found the perfect wallpaper, it’s time to work! Before you start hanging, you must ensure your accent wall is ready. This step is crucial for ensuring a smooth, long-lasting installation.
First things first, give that wall a good, thorough cleaning. We’re talking vacuuming, wiping down with a damp cloth, and maybe even a little light sanding if there are any major imperfections. You want a nice, clean, even surface to work with.
Next, it’s time to prime. Applying a high-quality primer to your accent wall will create a consistent base for the wallpaper, helping it adhere better and preventing pesky bubbling or peeling later. Just grab a roller and get to work—it’s a quick and easy step that can make all the difference.
Now, the moment you’ve been waiting for measuring and marking! Grab your trusty tape measure and pencil, and map out your wallpaper placement. Measure the height and width of your accent wall, and then add a few extra inches to account for pattern matching and trimming. Mark your center point on the wall and the wallpaper, and use a level to ensure everything is straight and aligned. Trust me, this step will save you a lot of headaches later on.
Hanging the Wallpaper
Alright, DIY warriors, it’s time to get your hands dirty! Wallpaper hanging might seem intimidating, but you can do it with the right tools and patience.
First, cut your wallpaper to size. Measure and mark where you need to cut, then use a sharp utility knife and a straight edge to get clean, precise lines. If you’re using traditional, paste-applied wallpaper, apply the adhesive evenly to the back of the paper before hanging.
It’s time to get that first strip up on the wall. Carefully align the top edge with your marks, using a level to keep things straight. Gently smooth the paper onto the wall, working from the center outward to avoid pesky air bubbles. Once you’ve got that first strip in place, use a seam roller to firmly press the edges together.
Repeat this process for the remaining strips, matching up the patterns. Don’t be afraid to take your time and adjust as needed – the key is to work slowly and methodically for a professional-looking finish.
If you encounter tricky spots, like corners or outlets, use a utility knife to trim the paper carefully. Remember, a little patience and elbow grease go a long way when it comes to wallpaper hanging!
Styling the Accent Wall
Now that your stunning new wallpaper accent wall is in place, it’s time to style it! This is where your personal flair can shine.
Start by choosing furniture, artwork, and accessories that complement the wallpaper’s colors and patterns. For example, if you’ve opted for a bold, geometric print, consider pairing it with clean-lined, modern pieces in neutral tones. Or, if your wallpaper has a more organic, botanical vibe, bring in some natural wood tones and lush greenery to create a cohesive, nature-inspired look.
Don’t be afraid to mix and match patterns, either. Layering different textures and prints can add depth and visual interest to your living room. Just be sure to balance things with some solid, neutral pieces to prevent the space from being too busy.
And let’s not forget about lighting! Strategically placed sconces, floor lamps, or even a statement chandelier can help highlight the unique features and textures of your wallpaper accent wall. Play around with different lighting scenarios to see what makes your new focal point shine.
Maintaining the Accent Wall
Alright, DIY divas, you’ve put in all the hard work to create a stunning wallpaper accent wall, so now it’s time to ensure it stays looking its best for years to come. A little TLC goes a long way when maintaining your living room’s showstopper.
First and foremost, regular dusting and cleaning is key. Use a soft microfiber cloth to gently wipe away any dirt or debris that accumulates on the wallpaper surface. And if you happen to spill something (it happens to the best of us!), don’t panic. Blot the area with a damp cloth and a mild detergent, being careful not to rub too hard.
Let’s talk about those pesky imperfections that can pop up over time. If you notice any bubbling, peeling, or misaligned patterns, don’t stress – there are easy fixes, too. Carefully lift the affected area, apply a small amount of wallpaper adhesive, and smooth it back into place. Easy peasy!
If you want to improve your wallpaper maintenance, consider applying a clear, protective coating over the surface. This can help extend the life of your accent wall and make cleaning a breeze. Just be sure to test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure the coating doesn’t alter the wallpaper’s appearance.
Temporary Wallpaper Options
Now, I know what you’re thinking – “But Jess, what if I want to change my living room look in a few years? Isn’t wallpaper a permanent commitment?” Well, my friends, I’ve got good news for you: temporary wallpaper options are all the rage these days, and they’re the perfect solution for the indecisive decorator in all of us.
Peel-and-stick wallpaper is a total game-changer when it comes to easy, hassle-free installations. With a simple peel and smooth, you can transform your living room accent wall in no time. The best part? When you’re ready for a change, you can remove it without leaving any damage behind. Talk about a win-win!
If you’re looking for even more flexibility, check out removable wallpaper. This stuff is designed to come off cleanly, so you can experiment with different patterns and designs to your heart’s content. Just be mindful of the adhesive strength—some removable options are more stubborn than others when it comes time to take them down.
Whichever temporary wallpaper route you choose, the key is to select a high-quality product that aligns with your style and the overall vibe of your living room. And don’t be afraid to get a little creative – these peel-and-stick and removable options open up a whole world of design possibilities!
Wallpaper Accent Wall Inspiration
Now that you’ve got all the tips and tricks for transforming your living room with a wallpaper accent wall, it’s time to get inspired! Let’s look at some stunning real-life examples that will get those creative juices flowing.
First, we have a living room that embraces bold, geometric patterns. The black-and-white hexagonal wallpaper creates a striking focal point, while the neutral furniture and accessories allow the print to shine. It’s a contemporary yet cozy space that oozes personality.
Next, we have a living room that takes a more natural, botanical approach. The lush, leafy wallpaper instantly transports you to a serene outdoor oasis, and the organic textures and earthy tones throughout the room complement the wallpaper perfectly. Talk about a calming, nature-inspired retreat!
And let’s not forget about stripes – a timeless pattern that can add height, depth, and visual interest to a living room. In this example, the vertical striped wallpaper elongates the space, while the solid-colored furniture and decor create a balanced, minimalist vibe.
No matter your style, there’s a wallpaper accent wall out there waiting to transform your living room into a showstopping, one-of-a-kind space. So what are you waiting for? Start browsing, get inspired, and get ready to unleash your inner design diva!
DIY Wallpaper Accent Wall Project
Alright, my fellow DIY enthusiasts, it’s time to put all that inspiration into action! I’m about to walk you through the step-by-step process of tackling a wallpaper accent wall project in your living room.
First things first, let’s talk about tools and materials. You’ll need a few essentials, like a tape measure, level, pencil, utility knife, and smoothing tool. And, of course, your star of the show – the wallpaper! I recommend using a peel-and-stick or self-adhesive variety for a beginner-friendly DIY project. Trust me, it’ll make your life a whole lot easier.
Alright, let’s get started! Begin by thoroughly cleaning and prepping the wall. Please give it a good wipe-down to remove dirt or debris and fill in any cracks or holes with a lightweight spackling compound. Once dry, apply a coat of primer to create a smooth, even surface for the wallpaper.
Next, it’s time to measure and mark. Grab your trusty tape measure and pencil, and determine the height and width of your accent wall. Add a few extra inches to your measurements to account for pattern matching and trimming. Use a level to mark your center point on both the wall and the wallpaper – this will ensure your first strip goes up straight and true.
Now for the fun part – hanging the wallpaper! Carefully unroll your first strip, aligning the top edge with your marks. Gently smooth the paper onto the wall, working from the center outwards to eliminate any air bubbles. Use a seam roller to firmly press the edges together, then move on to the next strip, matching up the patterns as you go.
If you run into tricky spots, like outlets or corners, use your utility knife to trim the paper carefully. Remember to take your time and don’t be afraid to adjust as needed—the key to a professional-looking DIY wallpaper accent wall is patience and attention to detail.
With a little elbow grease and these simple steps, you’ll have a stunning, one-of-a-kind living room with your friends and family begging for the deets on your “cray-cray” new wallpaper. So what are you waiting for? Let’s get to work!
Conclusion
Well, my fellow design enthusiasts, there are 11 easy ways to transform your living room with a wallpaper accent wall. We’ve covered everything from choosing the perfect pattern to maintaining your masterpiece.
I know what you’re thinking: “But Jess, what if I change my mind in a few years?” No worries, my friends! With the rise of temporary wallpaper options, you can experiment to your heart’s content without a long-term commitment. Peel-and-stick and removable varieties make it a breeze to switch up your living room look whenever the mood strikes.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your measuring tape, pick out your dream wallpaper, and get ready to turn your living room into a showstopping, one-of-a-kind space that reflects your unique style. Your friends and family will be seriously impressed (and maybe a little jealous) with your DIY skills.
Excuse me, I’ve got some dumpster diving to do. You never know when I might stumble upon the next crazy wallpaper that’s just begging to become the star of my living room!
