Looking for wall decor ideas to refresh your space? Those empty walls are filled with possibilities—and a few additions can make a house feel like a home. If you’re ready to turn those stark, bare walls into stylish centerpieces, keep reading. No matter your style, we’ve got the tricks that can amp up your walls and bring out your personality and taste. Whether you’re an art collector, a nature enthusiast, or a book lover, your walls can be customized so that you can be surrounded by the things you adore. Discover wall decor ideas that are sure to add style to your home.
1. Go for large-scale art
An oversized painting or photograph will command attention and set the tone in a small space. Try a black-and-white photo in a minimalist space or add color with a vibrant abstract piece, as pictured above in Taylor Rooks’s Manhattan bedroom. (Check out our guide on to where to buy art online to source striking and affordable pieces.)
2. Curate a gallery wall
Nothing adds personality and color quite like a gallery wall. Display a collection of art or photographs, or add wall hangings and other ephemera. Opt for simple, cohesive frames or bring in an array of ornate variations to mix things up! Pro tip: Extend the gallery wall to the ceiling to create the illusion of a larger space.
3. Incorporate an accent wall
In addition to displaying objects on the walls, think about decorating the walls themselves. Try out a bright and bold paint color to create an accent wall, or bring in pattern with wallpaper, stenciling, or other decorative paint techniques. (Think about transforming your ceiling while you’re at it!) These decorative accents can have an even bigger impact in a small space.
4. Showcase a fabric
A tapestry or wall hanging can add a pop of color and pattern, as well as a sense of softness to a neutral space. Consider framing vintage scarves or other pretty textiles. Bonus: These are a lot easier to move than framed paintings when it comes time to head to your next home.
5. Hang up mirrors
Mirrors reflect light, helping a small space to feel bigger and brighter. Try hanging an oversized mirror, or display several smaller pieces salon-style.
6. Paint a mural
Let your walls transport you to another place by adding a mural. Whether you hand-paint it or choose a wall covering, the motif will make a big impact.
7. Install shelving
If you’ve run out of floor space for bookshelves, take your collection to the wall. Install floating shelves and display hardcovers, small sculptures, and other odds and ends.
8. Hang plates
Why hide your fine china in the cabinet when you can show it off? Use wire plate hangers to display your favorite dishes and serving platters. If you’re a collector of any design object, this might be the move for you–we’ve even seen breadboards as pieces of art on the wall of a Brooklyn brownstone.
9. Display sculptural sconces
Sconces add an extra source of light without taking up space on the floor or a side table. Choose an eye-catching design that doubles as a wall sculpture to bring in light and style.
10. Go greener
Plants don’t just have to sit on the windowsill. Try hanging or wall-mounted planters to add a bit of greenery to your space and nature to your walls. If you’re not big on water, you can opt for a high-quality faux plant (and no one will probably ever be the wiser).