“So, have you thought about wall decor ideas?”
Hands down, this is one of the most common questions that interior designers are asked. In fact, even when I was visiting a site in progress for assessment, I was asked what are you going to do with the walls…even before the flooring had been laid. Be it an apartment or an independent house, bare walls can be troubling if the space is not filled with bold, textured, or patterned objects to balance the attention. Unless you’re a minimalist who finds bareness refreshing.
This is the kind of impact a well-designed wall can make on a house.
It is entirely possible to have a complicated relationship with the walls in your home since they are often a reflection of who you are. Perhaps that’s why the go-to idea is generally framed family photos, posters, or prints. But there is so much more that can be done on these blank canvases. It is a chance to bring out your or your family’s personality.
Here are some offbeat wall decor ideas that have worked wonders in my projects.
1. Light it up
Choose light fixtures to make your walls pop. Pick multiple pieces of the same design and create a series or pick a statement piece. For a commercial project where I had an uninterrupted wall of 14×9 feet, I chose to go with the former. I selected terrazzo wall lights in two different colours to create a series. I highly recommend this option to home renters as light fixtures can be taken out with ease and the impact can be replicated easily in your next home.
PRO TIPS:
- Renters should ideally choose single pieces due to pre-decided electrical points. Homeowners can customise the light points according to the design.
- Best to work with an electrician for smooth execution
- Symmetry in placement is advised
- Cost can be upwards of ₹1,500
Watch the video to see these lights in action:
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2. Rugs for walls
Textiles, framed or placed as it is on walls, are a common sight in Indian homes. But here’s another twist to it–framed rugs. I simply love this form of décor for walls. Rugs come in all kinds of shapes, sizes, colours, and patterns. The diversity makes them perfect for walls of any size. My all-time favourite is a carpet that was weaved as one continuous border. The 4×6 ft carpet was placed over a mirror to create this fabulously unique piece of décor.
PRO TIPS:
- Renter and homeowner friendly
- Choose acrylic over the glass to make the frame light and durable.
- Best to work with a carpenter and experienced framer for smooth execution
- Cost can be upwards of ₹5,000 (rug + framing)
Watch this video to see how a rug can transform a wall:
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3. Shelf that wall
Try a bookshelf for size, it’s one of the most charming wall decor ideas. I recommend a single solid piece, preferably with doors. Avoid open shelving or floating shelves unless you have full-time help to dust frequently. A bookshelf can hold within it many kinds of items, making it a work of art in itself. Display books, curated items, photos, or knick-knacks, and watch the wall come alive.
PRO TIPS:
- Renter and homeowner friendly
- Choose the bookshelf in proportion to the wall size
- Trial and error is the best way to find the perfect arrangement.
- Cost can be upwards of ₹8,000
4. Tile all the way
Want to make a bold statement with a particular wall in your home? Tile it! Tiles are a great way to bring colour, pattern, and texture to a space. Many people limit tiling to bathrooms, floors, or outdoors, but tiles can have a very impactful presence on walls when done right. I recommend exploring handmade tiles for décor purposes. Handpick subtle pastel colours, as I did for one of my projects, or a single solid colour as found in Jaipur blue pottery tiles. The combinations are endless.
PRO TIPS:
- Great for homeowners, not so much for renters. Since this type of décor cannot be moved, it is best avoided when you’re renting.
- To get the best result, involve a designer to execute this style.
- Skilled labour, such as a tile installer, and patience are essentials here.
- Cost can be upwards of ₹20,000
Wall tiles also work really well for a child’s bedroom.
5. Put panels on the wall
Earlier, walls were usually panelled to hide wiring or a construction flaw. Over a period of time, panelling has evolved and is now widely used to uplift the aesthetics of a space. The materials used in panelling are hardy, so it is easy to maintain and durable. I personally enjoy mixing materials to create panels. Mirror, wallpaper, and paint are great add-ons. If you are a fan of the classic, nothing beats the warmth of a wooden look and feel. Whatever the choice, it is hard to go wrong with this wall decor idea.
PRO TIPS:
- Great for homeowners. Since renters cannot move this type of décor, it’s best to avoid it.
- To get the best result, consult a designer
- Hire a contractor to execute panels
- Cost can be upwards of ₹15,000
6. Play with objects on walls
Antique empty frames, ceramic plates or sculptures, or metal art are all objects that make for excellent décor. The trick is to find a combination that works well or one statement piece that does the job. Good curatorial skills will come in handy here. There is no rulebook for this kind of wall décor. Treat it like a collage but for your wall.
PRO TIPS:
- Great for homeowners and renters since it can be moved
- To get the best result, keep proportions, symmetry, and materials in mind
- Best to hire a carpenter to help you set it up
- Cost can be upwards of ₹1,000
7. Split the photo
If you love adorning your walls with photo art, here is a little twist on the traditional. Break the image into two or three or even four. Splitting the image makes for very interesting décor. You can try image repeat and flipping. Please note that this does not work on all kinds of images. So, choose the image carefully. Once you do, find interesting ways to frame it. The end result can be really something if you get it right.
PRO TIPS:
- Great for homeowners and renters
- Take the image to the nearest photo store. They can help with the splitting.
- Best to hire a carpenter to help you set it up on the wall
- Cost can be upwards of ₹1,000
You can choose a combination of these ideas or focus on one feature wall in your home. Whatever you decide to go with, make sure it suits your personal taste and style.
Related: Buying A House For The First Time? 8 Things You Need To Know Before You Write That Cheque
Featured Image Source: The Aymuas Project
