What is the rule of thumb for accent walls?

Author: Edyth Schinner II  |  Last update: Friday, March 7, 2025

In order to not overpower your room's color scheme, professionals use a little rule called the 60-30-10 wall color rule to maintain the space's color balance. Simply put, 60% of your room will have the dominant color, 30% should primarily be the secondary color, and 10% the accent color.

What are the rules for accent walls?

Typically its best to follow the 60-30-10 rule which states that 60% of the room should be the dominant color, 30% should be the secondary color, and 10% should be an accent color. So when choosing a color you'll want something that's different from the 60% and 30% colors to make it pop.

How do you determine which wall should be an accent wall?

A: Usually an accent wall is determined by whichever is the first/main wall that you see when you walk into a room. You want that to be the ``WOW'' moment when you walk into the room, so it's a good idea to have that be the first thing you see.

Are accent walls out of style in 2024?

While trends come and go, accent walls have proven to be a timeless design element. In 2024, they continue to be popular for their ability to transform a space without a major overhaul.

Is it OK to have an accent wall in every room?

Too many accent or feature walls dilutes the point of accenting or featuring; if you have too many, then none of them are special. Accent/feature walls are fine as long as you have your ``why'' locked down.

COMMON INTERIOR DESIGN MISTAKES + How to Fix Them | Accent Walls Dos and Don'ts

When not to use an accent wall?

If the room already has a lot going on, an accent wall may not be the best choice. It could make a busy room feel too crowded.

Are accent walls out of trend?

The Short Answer? They're Still Chic, When Done Right. Although interior designer Emily LaMarque is tired of out-of-place walls of bright colors in rooms, she—and all of our other designers—all see a more updated take on accent walls as surprisingly chic.

Should an accent wall be lighter or darker?

Accent colors are meant to pop, and create visual interest in a space: When choosing an accent wall, select a wall with purpose–your eye will be drawn to it immediately. For rooms with darker color walls, consider going lighter for an accent wall. If the walls are light and airy, consider a deeper, bolder color.

Is Shiplap going out of style in 2024?

Shiplap has long been celebrated for its rustic charm and farmhouse appeal, but in 2024, it's taking on a fresh, modern twist. As a versatile and stylish design element, shiplap is being reimagined in innovative ways that bring a touch of elegance and warmth to any space.

Are grey couches going out of style?

Ultimately the consensus is that gray will never fully be out of style, but in 2024 there's a shift towards using warmer tones in our homes. 'For years grays have dominated the 'neutral' spaces in our homes, but warmer tones are making a comeback.

What is the best color for an accent wall?

A dramatic accent wall can instantly transform the mood and energy of a space. Painting a wall in a rich, saturated hue like deep red, royal blue, or forest green instantly draws the eye. These bold colors add depth and visual interest, making a room feel more dynamic and alive.

Should an accent wall have a window?

Despite what most people may lead you to believe, the first wall you see in a room isn't always the ideal wall to accentuate. In fact, there are many factors involved when choosing an accent wall, for instance: Solid Walls – Generally and logically speaking, accent walls are solid and don't have any windows or doors.

How many walls in a room should be decorated?

Designers are in agreement that not every wall in the home needs to be decorated. With each individual interior design, the aim is to always ensure that there is a feeling of harmonious visual balance; for some spaces this may mean adorning every wall with beautiful decor, whereas for others, empty wall space triumphs.

How to decide which wall should be an accent wall?

In general, the right wall to accent is usually the first one that you see when you enter a room. You and your guests will always have it in view. 2. Look for other architectural clues, such as a fireplace, built-in bookcases, or architectural nooks.

How many shades darker should an accent wall be?

A good rule of thumb is to paint the accent wall the same color as the other walls, but 2 shades darker. If you don't feel comfortable going wild with color choice and placement, this route tends to be foolproof. You don't have to do this. A light accent wall in a darker room can work, but it's riskier.

What color accent wall goes with grey walls?

Navy and teal blues are especially common combinations with gray. This is because blue complements the silvery undertones of gray, creating a steel blue aesthetic. If you want to create a cool room with a timeless look, then a blue accent wall with peel and stick blue wallpaper will work effectively.

What is the new trend instead of shiplap?

Faux-brick paneling may be a great shiplap alternative for you. It is better for renters as it is easy to install (just peel and stick) and easy to take down without damaging the wall underneath. Faux-brick paneling can be an easy DIY, saving you the costs of installation.

When not to use shiplap?

Shiplap is Not Waterproof or Moisture Resistant

Shiplap made from natural wood isn't waterproof and areas where moisture could cause damage should be avoided.

Is shabby chic still in style in 2024?

Nearly all trends are cyclical, so just as we've had a resurgence of 90s fashion trends, we're also seeing a rise in interest in shabby chic. As with any trend, it's certainly possible to overdo it. If you want to avoid going overboard with the shabby chic trend, there are simple ways to rein in this style.

What color accent wall makes a room look bigger?

When you look at how to make a small room look bigger with paint, keep in mind that medium shades will make your space appear smaller than it is. Using dark and bright white colors that open up a room, in contrast, creates the illusion of a much larger area.

How many accent walls should you paint in a room?

DO Pick the Right Wall. When it comes to accent walls, only one wall gets to be the accent wall. If you were to pick more than one, then it wouldn't have the same effect and you may as well paint the entire room. Because only one wall gets to be the accent wall, you must choose wisely.

When painting a room 2 colors, which wall should be darker?

Most people put a darker shade on the bottom half of the wall and a lighter shade on the top half of the wall. By adding the lighter color tone on the top part of the wall, you make your ceilings look higher and thus your room will feel larger.

Why not to do an accent wall?

Common Pitfalls. Avoid creating an accent wall in a small room. An accent wall in a limited space can visually break up the room, making it feel even smaller. It's best to put an accent wall in a bright, open space.

Are sectionals out of style in 2024?

Sectionals are here to stay; this sofa style is gaining popularity, partly due to everyone spending a lot of time at home in the past few years. Many people favor them over the smaller statement sofas that were popular in the past. They're loved for their practicality and comfort.

Are cream walls outdated?

Interior designer Andi Morse of Morse Design agrees: 'Like white paint, cream paint is always on trend and at the same time classic. It never goes out to have light walls, and cream is a great alternative if you don't want stark white. It lends to a warmer vibe. '

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