When designing a dining room, one key decision is whether or not to include an accent wall. An accent wall is a wall painted a different color or with a different finish than the other walls in the room. Accent walls can be an effective way to add visual interest, character and style to a dining space. However, they aren’t necessarily right for every dining room. There are pros and cons to having an accent wall that should be carefully weighed when making this design choice.
Pros of Using an Accent Wall in a Dining Room
Here are some of the benefits that can come from incorporating an accent wall in your dining area:
Adds style and personality: An accent wall is one of the easiest ways to inject color, texture, pattern and style into a room. It allows you to showcase your unique taste and creativity. The striking focal point draws the eye and instantly amps up the personality of the space.
Creates a focal point: Your dining room likely centers around a key piece of furniture – the dining table. An accent wall behind or adjacent to the dining table can provide a bold, beautiful backdrop. The wall will frame the table and give the seating area a strong focal point.
Influences the mood: The color, finish and design details on your accent wall impact the mood and ambiance of the dining space. For example, warm red tones elicit an intimate, elegant feel, while neutral accent walls keep things calmer. Use accent walls to set the tone.
Adds dimension: Accent walls break up the uniform wall color and add depth and dimension to the room. The contrast between wall colors/finishes makes the space more dynamic and interesting.
Easy to switch up: Painting one wall allows you to easily refresh the look of your dining room whenever desired. It’s a simple paint job versus renovating the entire space when you want a change.
Cons of Using an Accent Wall in a Dining Room
Despite their benefits, there are also some potential drawbacks of using accent walls in dining spaces:
Can feel overwhelming: If painted a loud color or covered in a bold wallpaper, an accent wall may feel too overpowering for the room. It could potentially make the space feel smaller or cluttered if not well balanced.
Limits wall decor: With one wall standing out, you often need to limit decor on the other walls. This restricts your ability to hang artwork or other decorative pieces in symmetrical ways around the room.
Dark colors absorb light: Deep hues like navy or charcoal, while dramatic on an accent wall, tend to absorb light and make dining rooms feel darker or cavernous. If your space already lacks natural light, a dark accent wall may not be ideal.
Makes a statement: Before choosing a wild pattern or color for your accent wall, consider if it makes the style statement you desire for a formal dining space. Sometimes those bold choices work better in more casual rooms instead.
Can date quickly: Trendy patterns and colors on an accent wall may fall out of style quickly. Neutrals and classics have more longevity than contemporary prints and hues.
Best Locations for Accent Walls in Dining Rooms
Where you position an accent wall in your dining area impacts how well it works. Some locations are better than others for dining room accent walls.
Behind the dining table: This is the most popular placement for accent walls in dining rooms. The wall behind the table serves as a dynamic backdrop that frames the furniture and lighting. It becomes a beautiful focal point.
On an adjacent wall: For long, narrow dining spaces, placing the accent wall on a side wall adds character without overwhelming. Choose the wall where your cabinetry or buffet sits.
Full wall behind a hutch: Make the most of the wall space behind a built-in hutch or buffet piece by painting it an accent color. This placement prevents the color from becoming too overpowering.
Full wall with wainscoting: Add accent wallpaper or color above wall paneling or wainscoting. The contrast looks striking and allows you to integrate the accent wall more seamlessly.
One end wall: Painting one end wall sets a colorful tone without accentuating length or narrowness. Plus, lighting and decor can all be placed on the opposite wall.
Best Paint Colors for Dining Room Accent Walls
From rich tones to airy hues, consider these top paint colors for creating the perfect dining room accent wall:
Deep red – A dramatic red like oxblood or burgundy makes a dining accent wall feel upscale and elegant. It’s warm, inviting and pairs well with bold dining furniture.
Navy blue – For a moody, sophisticated look, navy blue is a great accent wall color choice. It beautifully contrasts lighter walls and ceilings.
Forest green – Deep green accent walls complement wood furnishings and feel both classic and stylish. The hue brings vibrance and character to a dining space.
Charcoal – A dark charcoal dining accent wall makes a striking, modern statement. Use ample lighting so the room still feels bright and lively.
Light blue – Soft, powdery blues like airy chambray work nicely for accent walls in airy dining rooms. The calming color sets a serene scene for meals.
Warm gray – Sophisticated grays like Farrow & Ball’s Skimming Stone are versatile neutral accent wall colors. They’re easy to dress up or down with decor.
Soft yellow – Cheery accent walls painted muted pastel yellows give dining rooms a fresh, contemporary cottage look. Layer in white trim for contrast.
Best Wallpaper Prints for Dining Room Accent Walls
Beyond just paint, don’t overlook wallpaper for stunning dining room accent walls. Some top wallpaper print ideas include:
Botanical – Relaxing floral and plant prints in either colorful or neutral palettes make accent walls feel peaceful and alive. They bring the outdoors in.
Tropical – Vibrant tropical prints with palms, banana leaves or bamboo make fun, playful accent walls full of texture and pattern.
Geometric – Bold geometric prints have a modern, graphic look. Triangle prints, zig zags or linear stripes all make artsy dining accent walls.
Damask – Traditional damask wallpaper patterns add a touch of timeless sophistication. Metallic finishes or colorful hues keep it fresh.
Toile – Pretty vintage-inspired toile prints with pastoral scenes reflect the nostalgic charm of French country homes.
Faux brick or wood – Faux treatments like brick, wood planks or shiplap mimic real architectural finishes at a fraction of the cost.
Mural – Custom murals of scenery, skylines or famous art prints make stunning, one-of-a-kind accent walls any guest will marvel at.
How to Make Your Dining Room Accent Wall Work
Once you’ve chosen to add an accent wall to your dining space, make sure it works seamlessly with these decor tips:
– Complement with trim – Add contrasting crown molding, chair rail or picture frame trim to visually balance the accent wall and keep it from overwhelming the space.
– Repeat colors – Tie everything together by repeating hues from your accent wall in your dining chairs, tableware or other decor items.
– Contrast lighting – Use a dramatic fixture like a neon or crystal chandelier to contrast with a bold accent wall. Or install wall sconces to highlight a textured print.
– Limit patterns – A busy accent wall competes with other patterns. Keep furniture, window treatments and flooring more simple.
– Mind sight lines – Make sure your accent wall is easily visible from dining table sight lines for maximum dramatic impact.
– Choose timeless over trendy – Traditional patterns and versatile neutrals stand the test of time better than contemporary accent wall looks.
Conclusion
The decision of whether to add an accent wall comes down to your personal style, goals for the space and layout considerations. Accent walls make dining rooms feel distinctly custom and interesting. When thoughtfully executed, they can take your design to the next level. Just be sure to choose colors and prints that align with the mood you wish to evoke. Strategically position your accent wall where it makes the biggest impact. With an eye-catching backdrop established, decorating the remaining space becomes all the easier. An accent wall sets the stage for layers of color, texture, lighting and other finishes to come together. Approach this feature wall as an opportunity to really showcase your personal flare.
| Pros | Cons |
| Adds style and personality | Can feel overwhelming |
| Creates a focal point | Limits wall decor |
| Influences the mood | Dark colors absorb light |
| Adds dimension | Makes a statement |
| Easy to switch up | Can date quickly |
