All photos: Toa Heftiba
When a room starts feeling dull or lifeless, most people think about buying new furniture or switching up the color scheme. But sometimes, the quickest and most effective change comes from the walls. After all, they’re the first thing you notice when you walk into a room.
Having said that, if you’re looking to refresh your space without a complete makeover, here are six easy ways to bring new life to your walls. This will, in turn, give a new form to your home. So, jump straight into the article!
#1. Add Some Texture
Bare walls can make your home feel stark and incomplete. A simple way to create visual interest is to add textured walls in the room. They simply make it feel more inviting.
You can try the following options:
- Wood panels,
- Marble-thin bricks or
- Faux brick designs.
After installation, they give the illusion of architectural detail without any major renovation work. Some trusted companies, like Brick My Walls, offer easy-to-install textured panels. They give your walls that extra bit of character, and that too without any heavy construction required. You can even install them by yourself. The experts also provide you with assistance in your DIY projects.
#2. Create an Accent Wall
Painting the whole room might feel like too much work. However, there is a great alternative to it: pick one wall and turn it into a feature.
You can use a bold color or patterned wallpaper to change how a space feels completely. This works especially well behind beds, sofas, or in dining areas where you want to create a focal point.
*Tip: Stick to warm, cozy colors if you want a relaxed feel. Else, go bold with dark tones for something dramatic.
#3. Use Floating Shelves
Floating shelves combine style and function beautifully. Besides offering space to display books, plants, or collectibles, they also help keep surfaces like coffee tables and counters clutter-free.
Try styling them with a mix of personal items and decor pieces. You can think of a stack of your favorite books, a small potted plant, and a candle or two. However, make sure that you don’t overcrowd them; leaving some space between objects keeps things looking fresh and airy.
*Pro Tip: Arrange items in odd numbers for a more natural, balanced look. Groups of three work especially well.
#4. Hang a Statement Mirror
Mirrors are more than just practical add-ons. They’re also a smart design trick to open up small or dark rooms. A well-placed mirror reflects light, making the space feel larger and brighter.
You should try to place a large mirror across from a window to bounce natural light throughout the room. If you prefer a more decorative touch, choose a piece with a unique frame that complements your interior style. Be it rustic wood, sleek metal, or intricate vintage details.
And don’t forget about shape! This is because round mirrors soften sharp angles. On the other hand, square and rectangular mirrors lend structure to the space.
#5. Bring in Some Greenery
Plants have a magical way of making any room feel alive and vibrant. But when floor space is limited, hanging planters and vertical gardens are great alternatives.
Wall-mounted planters come in all shapes and sizes. Be it sleek modern designs or more bohemian macramé hangers. Even a simple floating shelf lined with small potted plants can bring color and life to a dull corner.
Plus, plants aren’t just decorative. In addition to creating a calming atmosphere, they improve air quality. If you’re new to plant care, start with low-maintenance varieties like pothos, snake plants, or succulents.
*Fun Fact: Studies show that having plants around can actually reduce stress and boost productivity. This feature makes them perfect for home offices and living spaces!
#6. Make a Gallery Wall
Galleries are a great way to tell your story. Mix family photos with art prints or inspirational quotes. The key is to keep it balanced. You can maintain this by sticking to a color theme or having similar frame styles. This characteristic keeps things looking clean, not cluttered.
*There is a bonus tip: Lay everything out on the floor first to figure out the best arrangement before you start hanging.
Wrapping It Up...
Refreshing your space doesn’t have to mean spending a lot or taking on a big project. Sometimes, the smallest changes can make a room feel brand new. And if you’re looking for easy ways to add character to your space without all the mess, you can explore creative solutions that are simple to install and make a big impact. Ultimately, start small, have fun with it, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly your space feels refreshed.
