Transform Your Space With Feature Walls

A feature wall is one of the most effective ways to highlight the most interesting architectural details in your home, add character and visual interest or make the most of natural light.

It’s also one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to transform a room and there are myriad options, from simple paint and wallpaper, to a clever use of tiles or wall cladding, you can adapt a feature wall to suit your home and budget.

Cast your eye around your home for areas in your home that look bland, awkward corners that can't be decorated with accessories, or natural features that stand out, such as a fireplace or alcove. These are the perfect spaces to introduce interest with a feature wall.

1. Bold Paint Colours

One of the simplest yet most impactful ways to create a statement wall is by using bold paint colours. A vibrant shade can instantly energise a space and draw attention to a specific area of the room.

How to Implement:

• Choosing the Right Wall: Typically, the wall behind a bed, sofa, or dining table works best as it’s a natural focal point.
• Colour Selection: Consider the mood you want to create. Rich blues and greens are calming, while reds and yellows add warmth and energy. Ensure the colour complements the rest of the room’s palette.
• Contrast: Pair a bold wall colour with neutral surroundings to avoid overwhelming the space.

2. Wallpaper Wonders

Wallpaper offers endless possibilities for creating a statement wall. With patterns ranging from florals to geometrics and textures like grass cloth or metallic finishes, wallpaper can bring a room to life in ways paint alone cannot.

How to Implement:

• Choosing the Right Pattern: Consider the scale of the pattern. Large prints can make a small room feel cosier, while smaller patterns work well in larger spaces.
• Application: For a truly dramatic effect, cover an entire wall. Alternatively, you can use wallpaper to highlight architectural features, such as alcoves or fireplaces.

3. Textured Panels

Textured panels, such as wood, brick, or stone, add depth and a tactile element to a room. They’re perfect for creating a cosy, rustic feel or adding an industrial edge to modern interiors.

How to Implement:

• Material Choice: Choose materials that align with your interior style. Wood panels create warmth, brick offers a raw, urban vibe, and stone lends a natural, earthy touch.
• Installation: Ensure that the texture complements the room's overall design. For example, wood panels work well in living rooms and bedrooms, while brick can be ideal for lofts or home offices.

4. Murals and Artistic Features

Murals turn your wall into a canvas, offering a unique opportunity to express creativity. From abstract designs to landscapes, a mural can be a stunning focal point that reflects your personality.

How to Implement:

• Custom vs. Pre-made: You can hire an artist for a custom mural or opt for wallpaper murals that are easier to apply.
• Placement: Murals work best in rooms where they can be fully appreciated, like a living room or entryway. Ensure the surrounding decor is minimal to let the mural shine.

5. Gallery Walls

A gallery wall is a collection of artwork, photographs, or other decorative items arranged in a cohesive display. It’s a great way to personalise a space and showcase your taste in art.

How to Implement:

• Curation: Choose a theme or colour scheme to unify the collection, such as black-and-white photography or eclectic art prints.
• Layout: Plan your arrangement before hanging. Start with the central piece and work outward. Mix different frame styles and sizes for visual interest.
• Balancing: Ensure the gallery wall is balanced with the room’s furniture and other decor elements.

6. Accent Tiles

Accent tiles, often used in kitchens and bathrooms, can create a striking statement wall. From colourful mosaics to intricate patterns, tiles offer durability and aesthetic appeal.

How to Implement:

• Tile Selection: Consider materials like ceramic, porcelain, or glass. Choose patterns that complement your overall decor theme—Moroccan tiles for a bohemian look or subway tiles for a minimalist design.
• Grout Lines: The colour of the grout can dramatically change the appearance of the tiles. A contrasting grout colour can make the pattern pop, while a matching grout colour offers a more seamless look.

7. Mirrored Walls

Mirrors not only create the illusion of space but also add a touch of glamour to a room. A mirrored wall can also make a small room feel larger and brighter by reflecting light and enhancing the room’s depth.

How to Implement:

• Placement: Mirrored walls work particularly well in dining rooms, entryways, or smaller spaces like bathrooms where you want to create the illusion of more space.
• Style: You can opt for a full mirrored wall for a dramatic effect or use mirrored tiles or panels for a more subtle approach. Be mindful of what will be reflected in the mirror, as it will become a focal point.

8. Shelved Statements

A statement wall doesn’t always have to be about colour or texture—functionality can also play a role. Built-in shelves or floating shelves filled with books, art, and decorative objects can turn a wall into a practical yet beautiful feature.

How to Implement:

• Designing the Shelves: Choose shelving that complements the room’s style—sleek and modern for a contemporary look, or rustic wood for a more traditional feel.
• Styling: Mix books with decorative items like plants, sculptures, or framed photos. Use varying heights and shapes to create visual interest.
• Lighting: Add accent lighting, such as spotlights or LED strips, to highlight the shelves and their contents.

A statement wall is more than just a design trend—it’s a powerful tool in transforming the look and feel of a room. By choosing the right approach for your space and implementing it thoughtfully, you can create a focal point that adds personality, style, and sophistication to your home.