Ask Joshua: Are Accent Walls Still in Style?

Hi Joshua,

I recently graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara and just moved into my first apartment. I'm excited to decorate it and finally have a place to call my own. Since I can't paint the walls, I've been thinking about using peel-and-stick wallpaper to create an accent wall in my bedroom.

The problem is that I've heard several people say accent walls are outdated. That surprised me because I still see them in magazines, model homes, hotels, and all over social media. Now I'm wondering if they're actually out of style or if people are just doing them differently these days.

Are accent walls still in style, or should I skip the idea altogether?

Thanks,

Emma – Santa Barbara, California

AI rendering of a modern organic bedroom designed by virtual interior designer Joshua Jones of JJones Design Co. This photorealistic image was created from Joshua's original 2D bedroom design concept to help visualize how an accent wall can add warmth, texture, and character to a space.

Hi Emma,

Congratulations on graduating from the University of California, Santa Barbara and on your first apartment! Decorating your own space is exciting, and it's a great opportunity to create a home that reflects your personality and style.

The short answer is yes—accent walls are still very much in style. However, they've evolved over the years.

Years ago, it was common to see a single wall painted in a bold color simply because it was different from the rest of the room. Today, accent walls are much more intentional. Instead of standing out just for the sake of it, they should complement the overall design of the space and create a focal point.

For renters, peel-and-stick wallpaper is one of my favorite ways to create an accent wall. Since it's removable, it's a great option for apartments because it allows you to personalize your space without making permanent changes. Before installing it, be sure to check with your landlord or property management to make sure it's permitted and won't damage the walls when it's time to move out.

When selecting wallpaper, I recommend choosing a timeless pattern or subtle texture instead of something that's overly trendy. Organic patterns, grasscloth-inspired designs, soft geometrics, and textured linen looks tend to have much more staying power than bold novelty prints that can quickly feel dated.

Keep in mind that not every bedroom needs an accent wall. If your room already has beautiful architectural details, large windows, or another strong focal point, adding an accent wall may compete with those features rather than enhance them. The goal is to create balance, not overwhelm the space.

If you do decide to add one, my favorite location is the wall behind the bed. Since the bed is naturally the focal point of the bedroom, placing the accent wall behind it helps anchor the space and creates a cohesive, intentional design.

Remember that accent walls aren't limited to wallpaper. Decorative wall molding, wood slat panels, limewash or plaster finishes, and even stone can all create beautiful accent walls when they're thoughtfully incorporated into the overall design.

One mistake I often see is choosing an accent wall that competes with everything else in the room. If your wallpaper has a bold pattern, keep the bedding, artwork, and accessories a little simpler. On the other hand, if you choose a subtle wallpaper, you have more flexibility to layer in color, texture, and personality throughout the room.

At the end of the day, good design isn't about following every trend. It's about creating a home that feels comfortable, reflects your personality, and functions well for your lifestyle. A thoughtfully designed accent wall can absolutely add character, warmth, and visual interest to a bedroom without feeling outdated.

Congratulations again on your graduation and your first apartment. I hope this helps, and enjoy decorating your new home!

Warmly,

Joshua

Have interior design related questions? You can ask Joshua here.