Feature walls, also known as accent walls, are a cornerstone in interior design, offering a unique opportunity to infuse personality and visual interest into any room. By strategically selecting one wall to serve as the focal point, homeowners and designers alike can dramatically elevate a space's style quotient.

The possibilities for creating a standout feature wall are endless, from bold paint choices to intricate wallpaper patterns. In this article, the team from Canterbury Timber dive into the various facets of feature walls, including types, selection strategies, design tips, DIY ideas, and maintenance guidelines.

Types of Feature Walls

The versatility of feature walls lies in the myriad of materials and techniques available for their creation:

• Painted Feature Walls: A dash of paint can do wonders, with a single bold or contrasting hue transforming an ordinary room into a masterpiece of design.
• Wallpapered Feature Walls: The world of wallpaper is rich with patterns, textures, and colours, allowing for deep customisation and character addition to any room.
• Textured Walls: Introducing a textured material such as stone, brick, or wood can add a layer of depth and interest, bringing a tactile quality to your feature wall. Textured timber can give a cosy, rustic feel to your room.
• Artistic Walls: Large-scale murals or art installations can act as a captivating backdrop, offering a statement piece that anchors the room.

Choosing the Right Wall

The selection of the wall to highlight is a decision not to be taken lightly. Focus on walls that naturally draw the eye, like those that frame a fireplace, boast large windows, or feature unique architectural elements. Ideally, the chosen wall should be one that catches the attention immediately upon entering the room, ensuring maximum impact.

Design Tips for Feature Walls

Creating a feature wall that harmonises with your space requires a thoughtful approach:

• Balance and Harmony: It's crucial for the feature wall to complement, not clash with, the room's existing design elements. Achieving a balance between standing out and blending in is key.
• Room Size Considerations: Utilise lighter colours or subtle textures to open up smaller spaces, whereas darker hues can lend a cosy depth to more expansive areas.
• Theme Alignment: The design of your feature wall should be in line with the room's overall aesthetic, be it modern minimalism, classic elegance, or eclectic charm.
• Finishing Touches: When selecting skirtings, architraves, and mouldings for your feature wall, be sure to choose a style that fits your overall theme.

DIY Feature Wall Ideas

For those looking to put a personal stamp on their space, several DIY feature wall projects can make a significant impact:

• Stencil Designs: Employing stencils to create bespoke patterns or motifs can add a personal touch that reflects your style.
• Reclaimed Wood Panels: Installing a wall of reclaimed wood offers warmth and texture, perfect for adding a rustic charm to any space.
• Gallery Wall: Curating a collection of photographs, artwork, or memorabilia can create a deeply personal feature wall that tells your unique story.

Maintenance and Care

The upkeep of your feature wall will vary based on the materials used. Painted walls may need occasional touch-ups to stay fresh, while textured surfaces like brick or wood require regular dusting or cleaning to maintain their allure. Wallpapered walls, especially, should be kept away from moisture and cleaned gently to avoid damage.

Another Brick In The Wall

Feature walls are a standout tool in the arsenal of interior design, capable of transforming spaces from mundane to extraordinary. Through careful selection and thoughtful design, a feature wall can serve as the centrepiece of a room, reflecting personal tastes and design aspirations.

Whether you opt for a DIY approach or professional installation, the key to a successful feature wall lies in its ability to harmonise with the space while making a bold statement. By following these guidelines and embracing the myriad of options available, anyone can create a feature wall that truly elevates their space with style. To find out more and get started on your feature wall journey, contact us today.

FAQs

Do feature walls make a room look smaller?

Not inherently. The effect of a feature wall on a room's perceived size depends on the choice of colour and texture. While darker shades can add intimacy to a space, smart selections can create an illusion of depth and expansiveness. The trick lies in matching the feature wall with the room's dimensions and lighting conditions.

Are feature walls out of style?

Far from it! Feature walls are continually evolving within the interior design landscape. Today's trends lean towards subtlety and texture over bold, bright colours, showcasing a modern twist on the traditional accent wall. As a versatile design element, feature walls remain a popular choice for adding visual interest and personality to spaces.

How do you style a feature wall?

Styling a feature wall involves selecting a design element—whether colour, pattern, or material—that both complements and contrasts with the surrounding decor. It's important to consider the wall's dimensions and the room's lighting when making your choice. Adding complementary artwork, shelving, or accent lighting can further enhance the feature wall, integrating it seamlessly into the overall design theme of the space.

Do Canterbury Timber offer trade accounts and discounts?

Canterbury Timber are proud to offer trade accounts and pricing. To find out more and apply for a trade account, visit our website.