Two tone walls, also known as two toned walls or dual tone walls, refer to walls that are painted using two different colors. This wall painting technique gained popularity in recent years as a trendy and visually interesting way to decorate a room. However, some are now wondering if two tone walls are going out of style. This article will examine the key considerations around two tone walls to help determine if they are still in or going out.
The popularity of two tone walls
Two tone walls first became popular in the 2010s as a replacement for the single neutral wall colors that were common in the 2000s. Interior designers realized that using two complementary colors on a wall could create depth, dimension, and visual interest. This allowed walls to become a feature of the room rather than just fading into the background.
Many interior design TV shows and blogs featured two tone walls and they became a staple in HGTV home renovations and Instagram-worthy interiors. The contrast of dark and light tones made the look eye-catching. Two tone walls were a simple and affordable way to update the look of a room without a major renovation.
The aesthetic appeal of two tone walls
There are several reasons why two tone walls became so popular from an aesthetic perspective:
– They create contrast and make the wall into a focal point
– The color block effect is visually interesting and makes rooms appear larger
– Different color combinations can set specific moods like energizing, soothing, or elegant
– Paint is an easy and inexpensive way to update a room’s style
– It provides more flexibility than just using one color on all four walls
Additionally, two tone walls often utilize neutral tones like greys, taupes, and whites so they offer flexibility in decorating and furniture pairing. The color block look remains current and on-trend.
Are two tone walls going out of style?
Despite the aesthetic appeal, some design experts argue two tone walls may be reaching the end of their trend cycle.
Reasons they could be going out of style:
– The look may be becoming too commonplace and no longer as unique.
– Strong wall colors can limit furniture and decor pairing.
– Darker tones could make rooms feel smaller and dated.
– It can be more difficult to change up compared to plain neutral walls.
– Some feel the look is now too mainstream and overdone.
Many note that while two tone walls are waning in popularity, the look is not completely “out” yet. The pendulum may just be swinging back towards more simple, muted wall colors.
Key factors when considering a two tone wall
For those debating whether to still use two tones, here are some factors to consider:
| Factor | Guidance |
|---|---|
| Room size and proportions | Two tones work best in medium to large rooms. The color blocking helps make the space appear larger. Small rooms may feel cramped and choppy with two stark wall colors. |
| Wall layout | Think about how the walls will be divided. Uneven wall sizes like in hallways can make it tricky to get the layout right. |
| Lighting | Lighter, brighter rooms show off two tone walls best. Dark caves spaces may not get the full color block effect. |
| Furniture and decor | If your existing furniture or permanent decor like tile or cabinets is very colorful or busy, two tone walls may compete too much. Opt for simple neutrals. |
| Personal taste | Do you still find two tones fresh and current? Or are you now feeling done with the trendy look? |
Considering these factors can help determine if two tones are the right fit or if you should shift to simpler wall colors.
Best practices for stylish two tone walls
If you decide to move forward with two tones, here are some tips for creating a stylish look:
– Use tones within the same color family like greys, blues, greens
– Avoid stark contrasts and go for adjacent tones on the color wheel
– Use the darker color on top and lighter on bottom to maintain an airy, open look
– Add built-in shelves, molding, or paneling to transition between colors
– Always paint a clean line between colors using painters tape
– Consider finishing tones like matte, eggshell, or satin over gloss for a subtle look
Following these best practices helps ensure your two tone walls appear well-executed and harmonious. The overall effect should be sophisticated rather than disjointed.
Alternatives to two tone walls
For those moving on from the two tone trend, there are several stylish alternatives to consider:
– **Textured neutral walls** – Add visual interest through textured techniques like Venetian plaster, applied moulding, or decorative paint finishes.
– **Wallpaper accent wall** – Use wallpaper or removable wallpaper to create an accent feature wall.
– **Natural material accents** – Incorporate wood beams, brick, or stone rather than color blocking.
– **Metallic finishes** – Try rose gold, brass, pewter, or silver finishes on one wall for a glamorous accent.
– **Wall mural** – Murals are back and offer endless artistic options for a focal feature wall.
These alternatives provide depth, contrast, and style while moving away from the two tone wall trend.
Conclusion
In the past decade, two tone walls emerged as a hugely popular interior design trend. However, some now feel the look is becoming overdone and dated. Moving forward, more pared back and muted wall colors are coming into vogue along with textural accents. Yet two tones still remain a viable option for the right space. When well-executed in an appropriately sized and lit room, the color block effect can still feel fresh and contemporary. Those wanting a sense of timeless style may opt to move away from trends and simply employ classic neutral hued walls. At the end of the day, the choice comes down to personal preference and room dynamics. Two tone walls are not completely “out” yet, but their heyday may be winding down.