When you want to make a big visual impact without committing to a full-room makeover, an accent wall is the perfect weekend (or weeknight!) upgrade. Even better—it’s absolutely doable in three hours or less with the right materials and a little planning. Below are three stylish accent-wall options—ranging from modern to classic—that instantly elevate your space.
Before You Start: Quick Prep (20–30 Minutes)
No matter which style you choose, you’ll start with the same prep steps:
- Choose the right wall
Pick a wall that naturally draws the eye—behind a bed, sofa, entry bench, or dining table. - Clear and clean the area
Move furniture out, dust, wipe down surfaces, and lay down a drop cloth. - Gather your supplies
- Painter’s tape
- Level or laser level
- Tape measure
- Pencil
- Brad nailer (for trim/molding projects)
- Caulk + caulk gun
- Paint + roller + brush
- Pre-cut trim or molding pieces (if applicable)
Now, choose your look!
OPTION 1: The Classic Board-and-Batten Accent Wall (3 Hours)
A timeless upgrade that adds architectural character.
Why You’ll Love It
Board and batten gives instant dimension—perfect for traditional, transitional, or farmhouse-inspired homes. It also works incredibly well in entryways, dining rooms, and bedrooms.
How to Install (Step-by-Step)
1. Map your layout (10 minutes)
Use a level and pencil to mark a horizontal top rail (usually ⅓ of the wall height). Decide how wide you want your vertical battens spaced—typically 12–18 inches apart.
2. Cut and install trim pieces (60 minutes)
Use 1×3 or 1×4 MDF boards.
- Attach the top horizontal rail first.
- Add vertical boards, nailing them into studs where possible.
3. Caulk and fill (10 minutes)
Fill nail holes and run a thin caulk line along all edges for a polished look.
4. Paint (60 minutes)
One to two coats of a satin or eggshell finish. Moody greens, navy, and charcoal are especially popular right now.
Total Time: ~3 hours
Skill Level: Moderate DIY
Best Rooms: Bedrooms, dining rooms, foyers
OPTION 2: Modern Slat-Wood Accent Wall (3 Hours)
A clean, contemporary look with warmth and texture.
Why You’ll Love It
A slat wall adds natural texture, depth, and a boutique-hotel vibe. You can stain it warm caramel, walnut, espresso—or keep it blond and Scandinavian.
How to Install (Step-by-Step)
1. Pre-cut your slats (15 minutes)
Buy pre-cut pine or oak lath (1×2 or 1×3).
Cut them to your wall height or have them pre-cut at Home Depot.
2. Attach the slats (90 minutes)
Starting at one edge:
- Use a level to keep everything straight.
- Nail each slat directly to the wall.
- Keep even spacing between each slat using nickels, tile spacers, or a homemade spacer block.
3. Finish edges (10 minutes)
Add one slim trim piece on each side to hide end cuts if desired.
4. Optional: Paint or stain (30–45 minutes)
Staining adds richness; painting in matte black creates a dramatic, modern moment.
Total Time: ~2.5–3 hours
Skill Level: Moderate
Best Rooms: Offices, TV walls, living rooms, primary bedrooms
OPTION 3: Painted Geometric Accent Wall (1–2 Hours)
Fast, bold, and completely customizable.
Why You’ll Love It
No trim or tools needed beyond tape and paint—just creativity. Great for nurseries, playrooms, hallways, or anywhere you want a punch of personality.
How to Install (Step-by-Step)
1. Tape your design (20 minutes)
Use painter’s tape to form shapes such as:
- Diagonals
- Triangles
- Large blocks of color
- Overlapping bands
Make sure tape edges are firmly sealed to avoid bleed-through.
2. Paint your sections (45–60 minutes)
Use 1–3 coordinating colors.
Current trending palettes: warm neutrals, sage + gold, deep blue + blush, or monochromatic tonal layers.
3. Peel tape off (5 minutes)
Remove tape while paint is still slightly wet for crisp lines.
Total Time: ~1.5 hours
Skill Level: Easy
Best Rooms: Kids’ rooms, hallways, bathrooms, accent niches
Tips for a Professional-Looking Accent Wall
- Keep the rest of the room’s palette simple so the wall remains the focal point.
- If using trim or wood slats, paint the wall first for easier coverage.
- Use a laser level to save time and reduce mistakes.
- Always choose satin or eggshell paint for durability and easier cleaning.
An accent wall is one of the fastest ways to add personality and polish to your home—no contractor needed. Whether you choose classic molding, a wood-slat modern look, or a bold painted design, you can completely transform a room in a single afternoon.
Take a look at an accent wall we designed for one of our home offices.
