Should you do an accent wall in a kitchen?

An accent wall can be a great way to add visual interest and personality to a kitchen. However, there are some things to consider before deciding to add an accent wall in your kitchen.

What is an accent wall?

An accent wall is a single wall painted a different color than the rest of the room. The accent wall serves as a focal point and helps highlight a particular space or architectural feature.

In a kitchen, an accent wall is often placed behind the stove, sink, or on the wall with the most cabinets and countertops. This allows the accent wall to frame the functional areas of the kitchen.

Pros of an accent wall in a kitchen

There are several benefits to using an accent wall in a kitchen:

• Draws the eye – An accent wall naturally attracts attention. It can help emphasize certain features or aspects of the kitchen.
• Adds visual interest – A pop of color or eye-catching wallpaper on an accent wall adds excitement and personality to the kitchen.
• Makes the space feel larger – Painting one wall a different color can make a small kitchen feel more open and expansive.
• Provides contrast – An accent wall provides contrast from the other walls, countertops, cabinets, and flooring.
• Personalizes the space – An accent wall allows you to showcase your personal style.
• Easy to change – Painting just one wall allows you to easily update the look in the future by simply repainting the accent wall.

Cons of an accent wall in a kitchen

However, there are also some potential downsides to keep in mind:

• Can make the space feel smaller – In a very compact kitchen, an accent wall can overwhelm the space and make it feel cramped.
• Limits wall decor – A patterned accent wall competes with any wall art, limiting your ability to hang kitchen decor on that wall.
• Dark colors show dirt – An accent wall painted a darker color may show dirt, dust, smudges, and grease spatters more visibly.
• Personal preference – Some people simply don’t like the look of an accent wall. It comes down to your own style.
• Limits future changes – If you paint all the walls the same base color, you have the flexibility to add an accent wall in the future. But if you already have an accent wall, your options for changing up the color scheme are more limited.

Best places for an accent wall in a kitchen

If you do want to add an accent wall to your kitchen, consider these spots:

• Behind the stove or sink – This draws attention to the working area of the kitchen.
• On the wall with the most cabinets/countertops – Highlights the storage and prep space.
• Opposite the entryway – Makes a statement visible upon entering the kitchen.
• Behind the dining table – Framing the eating area defines the dining zone.
• On an island or peninsula – Adds color to a focal feature of the kitchen.

Best types of accent walls for a kitchen

You have many options when choosing an accent wall. Consider these popular accent wall ideas for kitchens:

Accent Wall Type	Description	Pros	Cons
Painted	One wall painted a different color than the rest	Inexpensive Easy to change	Less dramatic impact
Wallpaper	A patterned wallpaper on a single wall	Makes a statement Many options	More expensive Hard to remove
Natural stone	Thin stone veneer, bricks, or tiles	Texture and natural color	Expensive Permanent
Wood panels	Real wood planks or faux wood paneling	Warm and natural	Prone to water damage Darkens over time

Best paint colors for a kitchen accent wall

If you opt to paint an accent wall, consider these popular kitchen color schemes:

• White – Timeless and brightens up the space.
• Light grey – Sophisticated and understated.
• Navy blue – Classic, versatile, and stylish.
• Sage green – Earthy and soothing.
• Terracotta – Warm, organic hue.
• Yellow – Cheerful and lively.
• Red – Bold, dramatic, and eye-catching.

Be sure to pick a color that coordinates well with your existing cabinetry, countertops, flooring, and kitchen decor.

Tips for executing an accent wall

If you decide to add an accent wall to your kitchen, keep these tips in mind:

• Use high quality primer and paint for a clean look.
• Take time to properly prep the wall surface before painting.
• Use painter’s tape to create clean edges where the accent wall meets the other walls.
• Start painting near the corners and work out towards the center of the wall.
• Apply two coats of accent paint for best coverage.
• Use a paint color slightly darker or more saturated than your original idea. The color will look lighter once on the wall.
• Finish the accent wall before installing new backsplash or flooring.
• Add wall trim or molding if needed to give the accent wall a finished look.
• Step back frequently to check that the new color works with the rest of the kitchen.

Conclusion

An accent wall can transform the look of your kitchen and create a stylish focal point. When properly executed in the right kitchen, an accent wall adds personality and visual appeal.

However, accent walls also introduce some potential downsides to weigh. Make sure your kitchen layout can handle an accent wall before proceeding. Consider the size of the space, existing finishes, decorative style, and future plans.

If you do have the appetite for an accent wall, choose the location carefully and opt for paint color that complements your overall kitchen design. With smart planning and preparation, an accent wall can be a relatively simple kitchen upgrade with dramatic impact.