Warm Up to Wood for an Eye-Catching Wall
I know the reputation we Southern Californians have when it comes to cold weather. Our idea of chilly is laughable to most people from the U.S. Midwest and other regions of the world where it gets truly cold in winter. I'm gonna say it anyway, though: It's getting chilly.
Fall is really my favorite time of year, with its turning leaves and temperatures in the 60s. For me the colder temperatures inspire gravitating toward warm woods and textures. They also make me want to eat soup every day, but that's another ideabook. So back to wood.
A wood accent wall is one of those versatile details that looks good just about anywhere, and as the temperatures dip, I find myself loving the look of wood in every color and shape. The impact is strong, and layers of texture and warmth can bring a rustic sophistication to traditional or modern spaces. Possible applications are numerous — no space is off-limits. So grab a blanket and a cup of soup and take a look at these warmth-inducing wood accent walls.
Inset accent wall. I love the transitional vibe of this inset wall against the bright white walls and soft layers of the three-tiered chandelier. A shapely mirror and mirrored sideboard attractively contrast the horizontal pattern of the white oak accent wall.
Bed wall. A bed wall is a great location for a wood accent. I find the natural patina of wood to be very calming and a perfect choice for a bedroom. I especially like the way the texture of this wall gives just enough interest to this minimalist room but does not compete with the spectacular view.
Reclaimed with color. This fun, rustic wood accent wall features reclaimed wood with a touch of color. The punchy red accent table looks right at home in this mix.
Sleek and modern. Wood accent walls can look sleek and modern, not rustic at all. Walnut is a great choice for a modern accent wall, especially applied vertically. Notice the modern neutral palette of solids and textures. No need for art; the wood accent wall is the star.
Floated. This idea reminds me of a warm, rustic art installation all by itself. Naturally, it's the perfect place for a great piece of art and a great idea for defining spaces in an open floor plan.
Warm rustic with bright white. Opposites attract, and that's certainly true for this fresh interpretation of soft modern. This room is so calming and minimalist, with its sharp contrasting textures of smooth bright white and smoky rustic wood. This is such a perfect vibe for a bedroom. Notice the pendant lights at either side of the bed in place of lamps, saving space on the petite nightstands.
Great for kids. Add whimsy to a kids' room with a rustic wood accent wall. Scuffs on that wall will only enhance the charm. A wood wall will grow with your little one, making it a good choice for the long term.
Wood as wall art. This idea is almost a full accent wall but more like a piece of art. Consider artful configurations of wood on a focal wall in a dining room or home office.
Vertical and thin. Create a distinctively modern look with a vertical installation of thin wood slats. I would go with a 3-inch wood strip for this look. I like the idea of having spaces in between the slats to allow for backlighting.
Stairwell detail. A stairwell is a perfect place for a wood accent wall. The high nature of a stairwell will create a dramatic effect, with a great opportunity for accent lighting. Run the boards horizontally to visually expand the width of the space.
Horizontal and Zen. The slim horizontal styling of this wood accent wall creates the perfect Zen-like atmosphere for this master bathroom. The choice of a squared-off modern bathtub makes this bathroom distinctively minimalist and spa-like.
Play up the rustic. Yes, a wood accent wall can also be distinctively rustic. Play up the lodge experience with barn wood and branch furniture. Consider an unexpected soft color like lavender to contrast the edge of the wood.
Guides: More ways to work wood into your interior design
