DECORATING AN EMPTY LIVING ROOM WALL
A Designer’s Guide on how to Transform those Big Blank Spaces in your living room
Staring at a large, empty wall in your living room and wondering how to make it just perfect? Big blank walls can definitely be tricky to decorate. But, here’s the good news: With a few thoughtful choices, that blank wall can become one of the most beautiful features in your home.
Let’s dive into 5 ways to bring that wall to life!
quick note: Be mindful of scalE!
But before we start I just want to mention one of the biggest things people get wrong when styling large walls.
And that is the scale.
It’s all too common to see pieces that are way too small—a single tiny frame floating awkwardly on a big wall, or a small bookshelf or console that looks lost. These choices leave a wall feeling unfinished rather than intentional.
Here’s a rule of thumb: Most often, you need to SCALE UP.
When you’re working with a big wall, always think in terms of larger pieces, or combine multiple items to create a composition that fills the space in a balanced way. Trust me, you’ll be amazed at the difference!
Now that we’ve covered that, let’s look at some beautiful, functional ways to bring life to your empty wall.
01. Add Storage
Imagine a large, elegant cabinet or a tall bookshelf taking center stage on your wall—it’s the perfect blend of form and function. And getting the look and feel right is all about finding that piece with personality. Picture a dark, rustic wood cabinet or a more minimal, elegant piece filled with books and beautiful decorative accents.
Consider Floating Shelves for a Softer Look
If a big cabinet or bookshelf feels too solid for your space, floating shelves could be your best friend. They’re lighter, more budget-friendly, and perfect for displaying everything from books and greenery to personal decor.
Built-Ins For a High-End, Custom Feel
If you’re looking to really elevate your space, consider built-ins. They truly take a room to the next level, adding a custom touch to your home. Picture a beautiful, floor-to-ceiling built-in perfectly tailored to that large wall. It requires some commitment but the result is so seamless and classic.
Pro Tip: When styling shelves or a cabinet, group items and vary the heights and textures to make the arrangement feel polished yet effortless. For more styling tips like this, take a look at this post: 10 TIMELESS INTERIOR DECORATING HACKS
Cover your empty wall with floor-to-ceiling built-ins for a high-end look and feel
02. add art
Art is an incredible way to add character and dimension to a blank wall, and there are so many ways you can do it.
Oversized Artwork or a Mirror
A single, oversized piece of art can make a beautiful impact in a room. Whether it’s an abstract, a serene landscape, or vintage art, it adds tons of personality. If art isn’t quite right, a large mirror can be equally striking. Mirrors also reflect light, helping the room feel brighter and more spacious.
Want to know more about decorating with mirrors? Read this post: DECORATING WITH MIRRORS
Gallery Wall for a Collected Feel
If you love a bit of variety, a gallery wall could be perfect. This is all about creating a layered, collected look. You can mix frames, sizes, and types of motifs. And, don’t hesitate to throw in some unique pieces—a photo from your travels, framed textiles or maybe even something like a page from a vintage book. Either way, a gallery wall is the perfect place to create something unique to you.
PS: For a more cohesive look, decide on a unifying element. This could be the style of frames, matting around the motifs, a specific color palette, or themed motifs like nature or abstract prints.
Textile Art and Wall Sculptures
Don’t forget about textile art or wall sculptures! A beautiful tapestry can add warmth and texture, perfect for making your space feel cozier. For a more modern, sculptural look, a wall piece can add personality and a refined touch.
Styling Tip: When choosing art, always think about how it complements the room’s color palette and style.
A single, oversized piece of art makes a beautiful impact in any room
03. Add a Console and Style It with tall pieces
If you’re after a quick way to add both style and functionality, consider a beautiful console table. A well-chosen console can anchor the wall and provide a surface for beautiful decor.
And remember: The magic with consoles lies in the styling. Think of it as a mini vignette: a table lamp, a small sculpture, maybe a vase of tall fresh greenery and even a mirror or art piece above it. And be sure to vary the heights—stack a few books as a base and don’t forget the taller items to fill up more vertical space of your wall.
PS: Got some extra room underneath? Tuck a couple of stools or a beautiful basket. They add an extra layer of interest without taking up floor space.
Styling Tip: Resist the urge to over-decorate. Leave a bit of negative space for a clean, elegant look.
Add a console and style it with your favorite decor to add a more personal touch to your home
04. Add Wall Treatment
Adding wall treatments instantly brings a custom feel to your space and is a wonderful way to elevate any plain wall.
I love covering either the whole wall or just the lower half with wainscoting, or using a more modern paneling for large walls. It adds structure and gives a “built-in” look without feeling bulky. Subtle yet sophisticated!
In short: It’s a timeless choice that can be adapted to almost any design style.
05. Combine These Ideas for a Long, Blank Wall
So, what if you have a really long, blank wall, and choosing only one of these feels too small or doesn’t quite work to fill the entire space?
Sometimes, one choice isn’t enough to create the right flow. Here’s where combining ideas can make all the difference!
how to Create Balance when mixing
Make sure to play with varying heights and depths across the wall to keep the arrangement interesting and balanced. Consider mixing vertical elements (like a tall shelf) with horizontal ones (such as a console). If you’re working with wall art and furniture, ensure a balance of color and texture for a cohesive look. Or why not pair a single large mirror or piece of artwork with paneling for a more minimal look?
