Boring Room? Not Anymore! Try a Statement Wall and Watch the Magic Happen

A statement wall is a bold design choice that elevates a room from “meh” to “wow.” The best part about it? It is relatively easy to do! In this article, we dive in and explain the best ways (and tips and tricks) how to create an unforgettable statement wall in your home. Are you ready for the transformation?

Difference between a statement wall, accent wall, and feature wall

Let’s start with the definitions!

Overall, the statement wall, accent wall, and feature wall are very similar as they are highlighted walls in the room. The difference is in details.

An accent wall creates a subtle contrast compared to the rest of the walls. Think of it as the "gentle way" to spice things up. For example, it can be a darker yellow wall in a room where the rest of the walls are in a light yellow tone.

A statement wall is a much bolder version of an accent wall. It’s more expressive, eye-catching, and often trendier than an accent wall. For example, it can be a bold and dramatic wallpaper on one wall against almost plain walls.

A feature wall is the broadest term of the three. It simply means a wall that is "featured" – made special somehow. It can mean either an accent wall or a statement wall.

Best times to use a statement wall

Now that we know what a statement wall is, let’s find out when it is best to use one in your interior!

When the room feels “flat” or boring

If your space feels a little too neutral or safe, a statement wall is a quick way to add personality without overhauling the whole room. For example, a beige living room that needs a burst of life, or a hallway that feels more like a tunnel than a transition.

When you want a focal point

Every well-designed room needs a focal point – something your eye naturally draws to. If your space doesn’t have one (like a fireplace or big window), a statement wall can do the trick. It is a great option for open-concept areas, blank bedrooms, or oddly shaped rooms.

To highlight a key feature

Use a statement wall to spotlight your favorite element in the room. It can be your bed, your sofa, a favorite piece of art, or even a beautiful piece of furniture. For example, wallpaper behind a headboard instantly elevates a bedroom.

To define a zone in an open space

A statement wall can help define different “zones” without adding physical dividers in open-plan homes or studio apartments. That way, you can separate zones for dining, sleeping, working, etc.  For example, a wallpapered arch or nook can create a cozy reading corner or home office space.

When you’re craving change (without full renovation)

If you're not ready to redo an entire room, a statement wall lets you refresh your space with far less time, cost, or mess. It is a perfect solution for renters, busy parents, or anyone who wants change without chaos.

To show off your style

Statement walls are personal. Whether you’re into bold patterns, earthy tones, vintage charm, or minimalist lines, a statement wall can make your space feel truly yours.

Where to put a statement wall

If you are ready to add a statement wall to your room, the next step is to choose where to put it. Which wall should you select as the statement? Let’s look at some of the best statement wall options for a balanced interior!

Behind the headboard in the bedroom

The area behind your bed is the natural focal point of the room, making it the perfect setting for a statement wall. When choosing the technique (wallpaper, paint, paneling, etc)  for the bedroom statement wall, remember that the walls should complement the bed color, style, and placement.

Behind the sofa in the living room

The focal point of a living room is often the sofa, so the wall behind it is a great candidate for a living room statement wall. If you choose this option, make sure the sofa does not compete with the wall. If you want to have a statement wall, the sofa should be good-looking but not a statement piece itself.

Dining room back wall

The dining room statement wall will give this room depth and style. You want to choose the back wall for the statement to have the biggest impact and balance. It will tie in perfectly with the dining table, creating a coherent interior.

Hallway that needs personality

Hallways are transitional spaces that often lack character. We move so fast through them that we sometimes forget they offer fantastic design opportunities. So, to make the hallway more exciting, make one of the walls into a statement wall!

Entryway that welcomes guests

Although the entryway is not officially a room, it is still an area in the house that, when decorated, can really elevate the look. A statement wall is an amazing option for this zone because you can make maximum impact with the fewest objects (that might get in the way).

The wall you naturally face most often

When deciding where to place your statement wall, trust your instincts. Stand in the center of the room and see where your eye naturally goes. That’s often where you’ll want to place your focal point. Sometimes, the room itself will guide you to the perfect spot!

How to make a statement wall

Once you have chosen where to put your statement wall, let’s discuss how to make it excel compared to other walls.

Go Bold with Wallpaper

Wallpaper is one of the easiest and most noticeable ways how to make a statement wall. It is a great option for several reasons:

1. Easy to install and remove (especially if you choose peel-and-stick wallpaper);

2. You can adjust it to any theme by selecting the right pattern;

3. You need just the wallpaper – no other props necessary (like frames, wall hangings, etc.);

4. Perfect for tight spaces – it doesn’t take up extra room;

5. Excellent for beginners and people who are designing a room themselves for the first time.

Peel and stick vs traditional wallpaper for a statement wall

First, peel and stick wallpaper is renter-friendly. If you are renting, that is definitely the way to go.  

Second, peel and stick wallpaper is great if you want to change the room's interior frequently. It will be easy to install and easy to remove.

Third, peel and stick can be a great experiment for a statement wall as such. It allows you to test out the waters and see if it is something you want in the room.

Fourth, peel and stick wallpaper is perfect if you just don’t like the application process of traditional wallpaper. Peel and stick is not temporary wallpaper, it won’t peel off after a while. It is just a different application technique that doesn’t require adding glue.

Then, when to choose traditional wallpaper?

Traditional wallpaper is excellent if you are confident about your choices and are ready to commit to the feature wall in the long run.

It is also a great choice if you like the look of traditional wallpaper better – it is paper-based and has almost no structure (compared to peel-and-stick wallpaper).

Statement wall ideas with wallpaper

Excited to try out some wallpaper action for a statement wall? Here are statement wall ideas with wallpaper!

• Lotus Wallpaper – For a very subtle statement wall, this Lotus Wallpaper print is the right choice. It will add a very nice pop of color and breathe life to a minimalistic interior.

• Birds and The Trees Wallpaper in Blue – Busy and classical print of birds in branches with berries and leaves. Perfect for drawing attention!

• Curved Lines Wallpaper in Pink – Wallpaper with modern touch that will excel any wall and area in the house.

• Bohemian Blossom Wallpaper in Teal – If you love a good pop of color and don’t shy away from bold color combinations, this one is for you!

• Layered Tropics Wallpaper – Adding a lush green tones and tropical vibes, is always a good idea. This wallpaper is the perfect choice for a statement wall.

• Indigo Chalk Wallpaper – Wallpaper that looks almost like a modern art piece. It has brush strokes and gradient colors.

Paint it differently

A painted wall is the most classic way how to get a featured wall. The benefits of painted statements walls are:

1. They seamlessly integrate with the rest of the walls (if you choose the right color!);

2. Perfect for minimalistic interior design that wants a little bit of intrigue;

3. Elegant and serious vibe;

4. You can get creative with large patterns. For example, paint circles or colorblock in triangles.

5. Adding real texture is an option.

Painted statement wall ideas

What can you do with just paint? Turns out – a lot! Here are some ideas:

• Color blocking – Paint large sections or shapes in contrasting or complementary colors. Think rectangles, stripes, or diagonals to create a modern or playful look. Use it to frame furniture or separate “zones” in a room.

• Painted arch – A soft, curved shape painted on the wall — usually behind a bed, sofa, or desk — creates a focal point and adds charm. It works especially well in boho, eclectic, or Scandinavian interiors.

• Ombre or gradient wall – Blend two or more tones together from light to dark. It gives a dreamy, artistic feel and works beautifully in bedrooms or calming spaces.

• Half-painted wall (or three-quarter wall) – Paint the bottom half (or a bit more) of the wall in one color, leaving the top white or neutral. It creates visual structure and adds height to the room. This is great for entryways, hallways, or kids’ rooms.

• Tone-on-tone texture – Use the same color in two different finishes – like matte and gloss – to create subtle stripes, chevrons, or patterns that show up in the light. It’s elegant, unexpected, and adds dimension without overwhelming the space.

Designer tip: Deep, rich shades like navy, forest green, or terracotta instantly elevate a room and make everything else – from your furniture to your artwork – stand out.

Add Texture with Panels or Wood

If you want to add some texture and depth to your rooms, create a feature wall with wood elements. It is an exciting way how to add interest – it is a little bit unexpected, it adds warmth (because of wood!), and is slightly unique. Here are the options you can try:

• Paneling is great for adding subtle wood elements. You can add the panels only to half the wall and paint them to match the room’s interior. It is also a great solution for historical homes since it is a look that was favorited a lot centuries ago.

• Vertical slat walls are a very modern way how to integrate wood into your interior. They go perfectly with minimalistic, japandi, scandinavian and other interior.

• Shiplap looks very clean and minimalistic. It is perfect for warmer climate homes, beach houses, and cottages.

Curate a Gallery Wall

To highlight a wall, you don’t necessarily need to paint it, wallpaper it, or add panels. You can also, make an amazing gallery wall. However, for maximum effect, combine a painted or wallpapered wall with a gallery wall.

How to create a statement gallery wall

The beauty of a gallery wall is the fact that you can hang there almost anything. Yes, you can go a classical way and make a gallery wall just with frames. But if your interior design allows it and you are excited to experiment, you can add other objects you like, for example, hats, old photo cameras, masks, wall hangings, plants, and so on.

Here is a list of items that are perfect for a gallery wall:

• Framed photos (in different frames!);

• Art prints in various sizes;

• Mirrors;

• Shadow boxes;

• Small wall sculptures;

• Wall hangings;

• Decorative plates;

• Letters;

• Vintage postcards;

• Mini shelves;

• Clocks;

• Macramés.

Tips for great looking gallery wall

Don’t over do it

If this is your first gallery wall, it is best to stick to this rule – mix 2 to 3 of unique items with frames and art prints. That way you will get a balanced look that exudes style but not chaos.

Stick to a color palette

To get a cohesive look, choose a color palette for your gallery wall and stick to it. It will make it look intentional and balanced.

Test it out before hanging

To avoid making mistakes, start with laying out your gallery wall on the floor. After that make “replicas” of your items on craft paper and use that and some sticky tape to start arranging it on the wall. Once you are happy with the results, just then start drilling!

Let your wall tell a story

Your statement wall doesn’t have to follow any rules – it just has to reflect you. Whether you go bold with wallpaper, create texture with wood, or display art that makes you smile, a statement wall is your chance to express your style in a single, powerful way.