A Moment That Sparked a Thought
It started with a swipe.
She was scrolling through Instagram when she saw it, another all-black accent wall with diagonal trim. At first, she loved it. But five minutes (and fifty posts) later, it already felt overdone. “I want something timeless,” she thought. “Something I won’t regret in five years.”
At LaFollette Custom Homes, that is exactly what we aim to create: interiors that feel current and personal yet still enduring. Accent walls can absolutely bring warmth, texture, and interest to a space, but the key is choosing elements that age gracefully, not ones that peak and fade within a season.
The Warmth of Natural Wood
Natural wood walls strike a beautiful balance between comfort and sophistication. Today’s choices, like white oak or walnut, offer a clean, elevated look without the heavy knotty pine feel of the past. When installed vertically in a reading nook or painted in soft neutrals such as sage or cream, wood adds a subtle dimension that enriches a room without overwhelming it.
Brick and Stone That Stand the Test of Time
Brick and stone walls have a way of grounding a space with authenticity. Neutral-toned brick, limestone fireplaces, or even a simple German smear can soften textures and create a timeless focal point. These materials bring natural texture and depth without leaning into overly trendy territory.
A Fresh Take on Painted Accents
Painted accent walls remain a classic choice, but the key is opting for deeper, earthy tones instead of bold, fleeting colors. Warm navy, muted greens, and soft charcoals add richness to bedrooms, powder rooms, and offices. Painting offers incredible flexibility because if your style evolves, updating the color is simple and low commitment.
Wallpaper with Personality Not a Passing Fad
Wallpaper can introduce charm and personality when chosen thoughtfully. Timeless patterns such as florals, subtle geometrics, or grasscloth textures create depth without feeling overly trendy. Powder rooms, entryways, or built-in shelving are ideal spaces for adding these gentle touches. Traditional wallpaper offers the most polished finish, though peel-and-stick options allow for experimentation.
Tile in Unexpected Places
Tile accent walls are increasingly popular, particularly in areas that benefit from texture and light. A tiled wall behind a freestanding tub can evoke a spa-like retreat, while ceramic or zellige tile behind kitchen shelving adds artisanal character. Sticking to natural tones ensures the tile ages well and harmonizes with the rest of your home.
Dos and Don’ts for Thoughtful Accent Walls
Accent walls work best when they enhance a room rather than compete with it. Consider the room’s purpose, whether you want it to feel calm, inviting, or inspiring. Ensure your materials and colors connect with your overall design vision. Typically, one accent wall per room is sufficient for visual impact.
On the other hand, avoid layering multiple bold materials at once or choosing something just because it is trending. Dark colors need a balance of light textures elsewhere, and overly ornate designs can quickly become overpowering.
Creating a Home That Lasts
Accent walls should complement your home, not chase trends. When thoughtfully selected, they add warmth, personality, and charm that lasts for years to come.
At LaFollette Custom Homes, we help you design interiors that make you feel uniquely yours, comfortable, curated, and beautifully timeless. Let’s build something enduring together.