How to Create the Perfect Accent Wall
Accent walls are a staple in decorating magazines and blogs. Painting one wall a different color than the rest will turn even the plainest room into a stylish space. But you don’t have to be an interior designer or professional decorator to incorporate the trendy accent wall into your home. The key is to consider a few different factors to create the perfect accent wall. Aspiring designers can easily turn any bedroom or living room into one fit for the pages of a magazine by following these simple tips for residential painting in Pensacola, FL.
Choose the best wall
The first step is to identify which wall is the right one for the splash of color. Choosing the wrong wall could throw off the balance and harmony, instead making it feel askew and awkward. While there aren’t any real “rules,” most designers recommend selecting the first wall that is visible when walking into the room. Another option is to paint the wall that has a distinctive architectural feature, such as a fireplace or a built-in bookcase. Avoid any walls that have doors or windows.
Consider the room’s purpose
Color can influence people’s moods. A rich blue can help someone feel relaxed and comfortable, while a fiery red has been known to induce stress. That’s why certain shades work better in some rooms than in others. For example, vibrant yellow would be better suited for a bright, sunny kitchen, instead of a bedroom space designed for relaxing and sleeping. Think about the room’s purpose and the mood you want to create before selecting a color for your accent wall.
Use the 60-30-10 rule
The wide array of paint colors available to choose from can be overwhelming. A contrasting or excessive color palette can cause an accent wall to have the opposite effect. It will likely end up looking messy and cartoonish instead of stylish and tied together. The best way to avoid this is by using the 60-30-10 rule to develop the color scheme. Sixty percent of the room should be the dominant color. This will not only include the wall color, but also the décor and furniture. The secondary color should be limited to 30 percent, while the accent color is best at 10 percent. Following these guidelines will help create a neat and cohesive look.
Select the right color
Traditionally, paint professionals recommend painting the accent wall a darker color than the other walls in the room. The best rule of thumb is to choose a paint color two shades darker than the rest. Another option is to select an accent color based on a piece of furniture or décor already present in the room, such as a couch, pillows, rugs or bedding. Whichever approach you choose, remember that the colors should all work in harmony, instead of competing for attention.
Accent walls are a simple, yet effective way to add excitement to a space for very little additional money. The pros at Fresh Start Painting Inc. can help you select the best shade for an accent wall and all interior painting in Pensacola, FL.
