How to Decorate a Large Wall
Goodbye bare walls.
Decorating a big blank wall can be intimidating when you’re starting from scratch. Read our guide to find inspiration on how to decorate a large wall to maximize the style and functionality of your space.
1. Showcase a Statement Piece
While this choice may feel obvious at first glance, opting to decorate a large blank wall with just one piece of artwork allows it to shine as a focal point in the room. Maximize the impact of your piece by anchoring your artwork to a central spot on the wall – hang it behind a sofa, along a headboard, or above a console table to draw the eye upwards.
Tip!
Hang frames at eye level to naturally and effortlessly draw attention to your artwork. For more advice, check out our guide How to Hang a Picture Perfectly.
2. Pick a Pair of Paintings
Doubling up on artwork is a great way to introduce structure and visual interest to a large wall. Multi-piece artwork and photographs can be spun one of two ways: as one piece that bleeds across two frames (a diptych) or two related pieces paired together. Choosing a set of artwork will help you achieve an effortlessly cohesive art display.
An easy way to fill a blank wall is to display a collection of items that speak to your style and interests – try books, pottery, or small sculptures. Display these items in a tall, open bookcase where they are easily visible and can be enjoyed throughout the room.
Creating a gallery wall is a striking way to fill a blank wall while showing off your eye for artwork. Take stock of the pieces you want to include and map out in advance where each picture will go. Don’t be afraid to mix shapes, sizes, and frames – variety looks great on a gallery wall.
Beyond occupying an empty wall, shelving will provide additional storage space as well. You can use this space to keep books and other essentials easily accessible from your sofa, or to display items that accentuate the decor in your room. Choose picture ledges as a safe way to display pieces of art, picture frames, or even your record collection.
Wall paneling can help add structure, texture, and visual interest to your walls for a decorative but minimalistic feel in your home. Choose an accent wall or only cover part of a wall with paneling for an especially dimensional look in the space.
Another creative way to fill your blank wall is to invest in greenery. Utilize hanging planters or wall-mounted pots so you can place your plants at different levels on the wall for a dimensional, lively display. If you don’t have a green thumb, try out faux plants for low-maintenance decor.
Make the most of large walls in your home by mounting wall sconces for additional lighting. Wall sconces are perfect for adding task lighting beside your bed, illuminating dark corners, or highlighting your favorite artwork. They come in a range of designs so you can find a light fixture that also adds a decorative touch to your walls.
Hanging mirrors is an easy and tasteful way to fill a bare wall and make your room feel bigger and brighter. Hang multiple mirrors or pair them with wall art for a unique and personalized gallery wall. Match your mirror’s frame to the style of your space – a plain black or white frame works for a modern room, while a faded wooden frame fits nicely in a rustic or coastal room.
If you’re looking to max out your wall decor, look for a statement wallpaper to fill the space. Wallpaper with subtle patterns makes a good foundation for other wall decor while bold, busy patterned wallpaper can stand on its own. If you don’t want to overwhelm your room with wallpaper, you can always opt to create an accent wall.
Tip!
Love the look of wallpaper but afraid to install it? Read our guide Wallpapering 101: How to Install Wallpaper for easy step-by-step instructions.
11. Mix in Metal Accents
Metal wall accents add texture and dimension to any space. These accents function perfectly as a centerpiece on a completely blank wall or above furniture like your sofa or a console table. Choose something gold for a glam effect, or opt for dark metal like oiled bronze for a more industrial look in your home.
