Accent walls make an impactful style statement. They offer a unique opportunity to experiment with different colors and textures without making a whole-room commitment, or to create an intentional focal point that ties the whole aesthetic together.
Traditionally, accent walls might be decorated with wallpaper or paint, but trending textures, materials and colors are stoking inspiration for fresh looks. Here are six accent walls, made with unexpected materials and finishes, to help you create an accent wall that pops.
1. Wood
Wood (especially natural wood) is hot in 2025, offering warmth and color. Wood accent walls also provide soundproofing benefits, so are great choices for a bedroom or a home office, where quiet is required.
Trending are chunky wood tiles, with various patterns and geometric shapes. The natural timber of the wood, along with linear placement, naturally draws the eye. Also trending are wooden fluted accent walls. The gentle curves introduce just enough texture.
2. Brick
Typically seen on a home’s exterior, brick is a unique way to make a statement inside. A brick accent wall works for a number of different aesthetics, from gritty industrial to softer, countryside looks, depending on how it is styled.
“Brick is an impactful and classic choice for an accent wall because of its unmatched durability, versatility and visual appeal. Unlike other materials, brick can last for centuries and add a unique sense of history and character to a space,” says Denise Smith, senior marketing manager at Glen-Gery. “When designing a brick accent wall, think beyond tradition and explore the material’s full creative potential.”
3. Wine
Add something special in your kitchen or dining area with a wine bottle accent wall, that functions as decor, and as easy-access storage when dining or entertaining.
Use minimalist wine racks, turning bottles on their sides, labels out, so that the bottles appear to be floating for a sleek accent wall.
4. Plants and Flowers
A living accent wall takes the principles of biophilic design to heart by putting natural beauty on display. As a bonus, plants are supportive of health and wellness design, by naturally purifying the air.
To design a living wall, ensure the area will receive enough sunlight to flourish. If natural light is insufficient, supplement it with LED lighting. Depending on the size of the wall, and the plants and flowers selected, choose the appropriate structural and irrigation systems.
5. Gallery
A gallery wall creates a focal point that tells a story with meaningful decor.
Match colors or frame styles or pick a theme to guide your selections. Mixing sizes and orientation will add visual interest. To determine layout, place framed artwork on the floor to try out different arrangements. Place the largest piece first and build the design out from there. Trace each frame with newspaper to create templates and then hang the templates according to the layout on the wall, to get a preview of what the gallery will look like, before hammering.
6. Wallpaper Tiles
Wallpaper is a classic choice for an accent wall but using wallpaper tiles present a new twist on an old favorite. They are easier to apply (and remove), are available in a variety of patterns, shapes and styles, and look a lot like porcelain or similar tiles.
Moisture-resistant wallpaper tiles are rising in popularity for accent walls in bathrooms, where bold accent walls strive to replicate a spa or hotel vibe.
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Hero image courtesy of Wonderwall Studios.
