How to Create a Personality-Packed Wall with Wall Decor

Guest Blogger:  Kerrie Kelly, ASID

Wall decor is one of the easiest ways to turn a ho-hum space into a statement-making room. A personality-packed wall is a fun way to embrace your own style without needing to invest in the latest trendy furniture. While the gallery wall, which features a curated collection of photos and artwork, is a major trend, we’d like to take a look at a few different ideas that are a bit more out of the ordinary. From groovy wallpaper and floating books to tapestries and vintage signs, here are a handful of ways to create a unique wall that screams “you.”

Paint and Wallpaper

Make a graphic statement with wallpaper or painted designs. The choices are endless when it comes to wallpaper – pair a neutral pattern with framed pictures, or try a bold design that stands on its own. Walls that have architectural detailing, like an inset or wainscoting, are perfect candidates for a dramatic accent wall. Explore a more cost-effective route with a painted design. Elbow grease, painters tape and a bold paint choice are all you need to create a unique design like metallic stripes, chevrons or a modern marble-dipped look.

Books

As if there wasn’t another reason to love books, they’re also great as decorative accents. Books can easily be mounted in an open position for a unique look—try using vintage finds with a well-loved patina. Invisible wall-mounted bookshelves or floating shelves paired with color-coordinated books can also make a functional and eye-catching feature. Pro tip: try wrapping thrift store books of the same size in pretty wallpaper for a more cohesive design.

Fabric and Tapestries

While every other aspect of design touches on fabric, very rarely does it come up as a go-to for wall decor. However, textiles are unexpected and full of stories, and they have the wonderful ability to combine pattern and color into a complete presentation. The beauty of textiles is that they can be hung in a variety of ways, and they don’t have to come in large scales to be a jaw-dropping piece— a small collection of antique textile fragments is perfect when hung up in delicate flea market frames. Or, stretch fabric over a frame for a handmade canvas. Take a hint from different cultures or showcase your travels: embroidered Suzanis from Central Asia, richly dyed textiles from India, Native American rugs and Turkish kilims can all add depth to a wall that will last for generations. Flat sheets of fabrics aren’t the only option, either. Showcase family heirlooms or beloved uniforms in shadow boxes or frames, and don’t forget the beauty of a sentimental quilt hung in the family or dining room.

Heavy Metal

Give a contemporary room some vintage flair with some metal wall art and signage. Mid-century metal wall sculptures like starbursts and geometric shapes add a retro touch. Vintage wall metal wall signs are frequent flea market finds. A collection of small signs adds eclectic flair, while large metal art can instantly transform the feel of a room and create a new focal point.

Art and Mirrors

Creating an impact in a space doesn’t need to be complicated! Large-scale art provides drama and weight to a simple wall. Pair a sizable print with eye-catching typography over a chic couch for a sleek yet subtle look. An oversized clock can also work wonders for a wall: not only is it a functional piece of art, but there is something about a large, old clock that adds the perfect amount of nostalgia to a room. Looking to add glam to a smaller space? A round, modern mirror or glitzy framed one adds a sense of openness.

Natural Accents

A lack of space for planters is no excuse for not bringing the outdoors in. With the “living wall” craze at its peak, wall planters are available in all shapes, colors and sizes. Showcase delicate moss with a vertical green garden, or plant a few succulents in a wooden corner planter. Play up a cluster of hanging plants with painted pots or delicate ceramic bowls— there are many lovely options available from talented designers and local artisans.

Think Outside the Frame

Keep an open mind, and you can find unique wall hangings just about anywhere! From an antique door or a mounted bike to stunning metal floor grates, the list is endless with possibilities. Who ever knew that a group of assorted woven baskets could be turned into a show stopping piece? Try clustering baskets in varying sizes and colors on the floor and play around with placement before hanging them. Can’t find colorful baskets? A collection of pretty plates or lightweight bowls are great alternatives.

How will you let your space reflect your personality?

About Author: Creating interior ambiance with wall decor is an area of expertise for California interior design Kerrie Kelly. Kerrie writes on wall hangings, coverings, wallpaper and more for Home Depot’s Home Decorators Collection. You can also view a wide range of wall decor elements on the Home Decorators’ website.