What to do with a blank wall

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We all have that one wall (or maybe multiple) in our home that has no windows, no doors, no character - nothing but a big blank canvas that we don’t know what to do with. This could be in a hallway, a dining room, a bedroom, or anywhere where there are no architectural elements to add interest. So we have to add the interest ourselves. 

I recently had a client say to me, “I don’t know what to do with this wall behind my couch.” Sound familiar? If so, here are some ideas for creative ways to turn boring into beautiful. 

BOOKS

If you are a lover of books, why not use them as art? Try mounting a shelf with a ledge and thoughtfully placing your books with the front cover facing forward. Not only will this create conversation and show your personality, but it’s also a great way to stay organized. 

Photo Credit: Studio790

ART

Art is probably the first idea that comes to mind. We see a blank wall and hanging a piece of art on it just makes sense. But hanging up one random piece of art may not take up enough space, look awkward and maybe a little boring. Instead try this: 

• Pair of Paintings: buy a pre-set pair of paintings like this one + this one or create your own set by finding two pieces of art that are different enough but have one thing tying them together.

Photo Credit: Studio McGee

• Gallery Wall: having lots of smaller pieces grouped together is a great way to fill a big blank space. But don’t rush it and buy a bunch of things in one day. Take your time collecting: mix in some old, some new and some 3D objects to achieve a more curated look. To finish it off, add art lighting above. (This can be hardwired or try searching for battery operated)

• Art Above Furniture: In order to visually fill the space, consider hanging your art then adding a bench or chair underneath. This will anchor the art so it’s not floating on the wall and can be used as additional seating when hosting. 

Photo Credit: DenverModern.com

For a complete guide to art placement, check out this post!

PAINT 

Don’t underestimate the power of paint! And not just painting the entire wall a different color (many designers are actually against accent walls because they limit a space’s potential and if you love a color or pattern, it should be spread across the entire room). 

So instead of painting the entire wall one color, paint a square around a piece of small art to make it look bigger or to group a collection of photos. Or paint an archway around a mirror or shelves. 

Photo Credit: Sarah Amos Interiors 

Or paint part of the wall and bring it up to the ceiling. 

Photo credit: Iconic by Kaitlyn Wolfe 

STORAGE

Almost all of us could use more storage in our homes. So think of this as your opportunity to do both: store items and fill that blank space. Maybe it’s a chic wooden ladder to store blankets or this gorgeous fluted glass cabinet to store kitchenware.

Photo credit: Jessica Gersten Interiors

CONSIDER THE VISUAL SPACE

When you look at your blank wall, think of not only what’s on the wall, but the visual space in front of it. By filling that visual void, we can have the same effect as art or paint. For example, maybe you place a large arc floor lamp that curves across the wall. 

Or use a tall plant in a pot. (If your plant isn’t tall enough, try placing it on a pedestal). 

Photo Credit: George Mendes 

Photo Credit: Iconic by Kaitlyn Wolfe