I’ve always loved decorating my living room walls.
Recently, I’ve been itching to give my living room an update, something like this:
While furniture and accessories are easy to swap out, doing something dramatic to the walls can really transform the vibe of a room.
After doing some research, I found 18 fabulous living room wall decor concepts to inspire me.
Here are some of my fave ideas for taking those blank walls from bland to grand.
Gallery walls are a simple way to inject personality into any room.
Framed artwork can add pops of color and make a bold statement.
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25+ Living Room Wall Decor Ideas Photo Gallery
Gallery Walls
Gallery walls with a cluster of framed photos, prints, or paintings are a classic living room decorating idea for a reason.
They’re super simple to DIY and you can get creative with the arrangement.
Gallery walls add visual interest to a blank wall and allow you to infuse the space with your personal style.
When designing a gallery wall, mix and match frame sizes and styles for lots of variety.
Black and white gallery walls have a dramatic, bold effect.
Incorporate meaningful memories into your gallery wall with photos from vacations, weddings, family shoots, etc.
Make sure to hang your gallery wall at eye level while seated so you can fully appreciate it.
For a playful, eclectic look, opt for mismatched frames in bright colors.
Asymmetrical or organic gallery wall designs feel a bit more modern than grid styles.
If you have super tall walls, do a salon-style gallery wall with two or three rows of frames.
Gallery walls are super forgiving, so it’s easy to switch things up whenever you get the urge.
Curate a themed gallery wall with all black & white Anthropologie prints for an artsy look.
Display a collection of antique mirrors or plates for boho gallery wall flair.
Lean frames against the wall in addition to hanging some for dimension.
Paint or wallpaper a section of the wall a bold color to highlight your gallery wall.
Nail small ledges to the wall to display sculptural objects mixed in with framed art.
For kids’ rooms, do a cherished memories gallery wall with their art projects and photos.
Choose quotes, lyrics, or mantras that inspire you and print them out for the gallery wall.
Gallery wall designs anchored by one large central piece often look striking.
Update your gallery wall seasonally to reflect the holidays or seasons.
Tie your gallery wall into the rest of the room with complementary colors and themes.
Distressed wood frames have a vintage farmhouse type feel for the gallery wall.
Paint frames the same color as your wall for them to blend in and highlight the artwork.
Group different mediums and textures like paintings with vintage botanical prints.
Go full-on eclectic with a gallery wall that has zero cohesive theme or color scheme.
Abstract art prints pack a graphic punch on modern gallery wall displays.
Framed Artwork
Hanging a large piece of colorful artwork is an easy way to spice up bare walls.
Framed prints, paintings, or photos above your sofa or side chair create a focal point in the living room.
Opt for bright and bold colors and prints to perk things up.
For major impact, choose an oversized painting or print to display over the mantle or sofa.
Black and white abstract art makes a dramatic style statement in any living room.
Display a colorful floral painting to instantly liven up subdued wall colors.
Make DIY wall art by framing your kids’ artwork or other sentimental paper pieces.
For boho style, hang a macrame wall hanging or embroidered tapestry.
Recreate iconic art pieces like Van Gogh’s Starry Night or Monet prints.
Commission a local artist to do a custom painting or print just for your living room.
Display collections of smaller framed botanical prints for an artsy organic look.
Inject coastal vibes by framing vintage maps, coral art, or prints of sea creatures.
Pick neutral frames so the colorful artwork really pops against your walls.
Lean a large framed mirror against the wall for an easy decorative accent.
Float shelves around artwork to display flowers, candles, or small sculptures.
For easy artwork that adds color, frame pages from old books or sheet music.
Don’t be afraid to mix different frame finishes like sleek metal with rustic wood.
Highlight black and white photos in brightly colored frames as cool modern art.
Group three smaller frames together over a console table for visual balance.
Look for affordable art prints on Etsy you can easily get framed.
Vintage botanical prints have a classic, timeless look perfect for framing.
Juxtapose traditional framed art with modern wall sculptures.
Display concert or travel posters in simple frames as budget-friendly art.
For rustic charm, use reclaimed wood planks as oversized picture frames.
Make amateur artwork look polished by framing it properly and hanging with care.
Framed family photos make great personalized wall art.
Group assorted frames close together over the sofa to create a mini-gallery wall.
Fill your space with positive energy by framing inspirational quotes.
Floating Shelves
Floating shelves are totally trending right now.
They look chic and modern plus provide functional display space.
Use floating shelves in the living room to show off decorative objects, candles, books, and more.
Stagger them at different heights on a wall for cool asymmetrical style.
Opt for longer, narrow floating shelves to display rows of framed photos or art.
Minimalist styles crafted from wood or metal work well in modern spaces.
Paint your floating shelves the same color as the wall for them to blend in seamlessly.
Floating cube shelves are great for displaying plants, vases, or baskets.
Use ladder-style shelving to hold magazines, books, and reading lamps.
Downplay clutter by containing it on neatly styled floating shelves.
Add discreet led lights underneath floating shelves for a cool glow effect.
Aim for floating shelves made from quality real wood, not particle board.
Mix materials by pairing metal and wood shelves for an industrial edge.
Use floating shelves near the entryway for keys, mail, bags, and hats.
Display stacks of colorful coffee table books and accents on floating shelves.
Try open box-style floating shelves to hide cords, DVDs, etc out of sight.
Rustic wood floating shelves complement farmhouse, rustic, or boho spaces.
Curate mini art galleries on floating shelves with small sculptures or frames.
Make the most of awkward empty spaces like corners with floating shelves.
Attach colorful boxes or baskets under shelves for a bright pop of color.
Add greenery on floating shelves with potted succulents or air plants in macrame.
Floating shelves flanking the television keep components neat yet accessible.
Hide clutter by stashing it behind closed cabinet-style floating shelves.
Use floating shelves in place of a credenza to display table lamps or vases in the dining room.
Simple skinny shelf tracks make great display ledges for rows of small items.
Create a focal point over the sofa or console table with artful floating shelves.
Pick floating shelves with finishing details like brackets for a dash of character.
Add affordable storage with DIY industrial pipe floating shelves.
Use floating shelves anywhere you need extra display space.
Arrange matching objects and frames for an orderly floating shelf display.
Make floating shelves part of a larger gallery wall or display area.
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Textile Wall Hangings
Textiles like tapestries, quilts, or woven wall hangings infuse boho vibes and coziness into living rooms.
Hang one big piece on the wall as a statement or arrange a few smaller hangings in an artistic display.
Rich colors and patterns ensure they’ll get noticed.
Display handmade textiles during a trip for a global, cultured aesthetic.
Macrame wall hangings are an easy DIY project to add free-spirited style.
Layer a large textile hanging over a smaller, contrasting woven rug on the wall.
Look for reversible fabric hangings so you can switch up the look whenever.
Drape tapestries behind chairs or sofas as colorful, exotic backdrops.
Display a collection of ethnic textile art sourced from your travels.
Lightweight cotton or linen are ideal textile wall hanging materials.
Inject vibrant southwestern flair with traditional Native American weavings.
Handmade rag quilts in patchwork designs exude homespun vintage appeal.
Frame embroidered silk textiles between sheets of glass for an artful effect.
Look for bold ikat, suzani, or batik prints to really catch the eye.
Bohemian woven wall hangings work perfectly in eclectic spaces.
Display wall textiles featuring exotic motifs like elephants or paisleys.
Hang a Mexican serape blanket or vibrant Otomi embroidery.
Adorn walls with vintage saris repurposed into tapestries or quilts.
Pick muted pastel textile colors for a soft, tranquil ambiance.
Incorporate natural textures like wool, cotton, silk, or hemp.
Accent with textiles featuring pompoms, tassels, pom poms, or intricate beading.
Display your treasured childhood quilt for a sentimental, cozy style element.
Layer cotton crochet hangings for an airy, feminine vibe.
Design a accent wall with arranged embroidered pillow covers.
Wall Mirrors
Mirrors do double duty as wall décor by adding light and the illusion of more space.
Lean an oversized mirror against the wall or hang several smaller mirrors in cluster arrangements.
Display them above the sofa, mantle or sideboard to open up and brighten the room.
Strategically place mirrors to reflect windows and amplify natural light.
Frameless rectangular mirrors lend a sleek, modern vibe.
Round mirrors work nicely to soften traditional living room layouts.
Opt for antiqued mirrors with unique shapes for lots of character.
Salvage old window frames and use the panes as makeshift mirrors.
Mirrors etched with elegant designs or geometric shapes add visual texture.
Use small mirrors in place of art or shelves to decorate blank walls.
Display collections of varied mirrors for lots of shape and reflection.
Lean mirrors against the wall at an angle for added dimension.
Inject coastal flair with mirrors framed in driftwood, shells, or rope.
Paint the frame around a mirror in a bright accent color to make it pop.
Flank windows with matching mirrors to give the illusion of more glass.
Wall mirrors visually expand tight spaces and make small rooms feel bigger.
Use mirror tiles to create a shimmering glass mosaic wall.
Look for beveled mirrors to scatter light elegantly around the room.
Repurpose old doors or shutters as full-length leaning wall mirrors.
Bamboo circle mirrors boast natural texture for bohemian living rooms.
Opt for a sunburst mirror shape radiating out from the center.
Display mirrors above the fireplace mantle to amplify light and views.
Try decorative mirror appliques in geometric or floral shapes.
Layer smaller mirrors for a staggered, diamond-like pattern.
Use cabinet-style mirrors with storage space inside for hiding clutter.
Look for magnifying mirrors that make small living rooms seem much larger.
Wallpaper Accents
Use wallpaper to create a bold accent wall or focal point in the living room.
Opt for lively patterns like florals, geometrics, or animal prints.
Wallpaper one wall in a complementary hue to the rest of the room.
Try removable wallpaper for easy application and hassle-free removal.
Pick a mural-style wallpaper with a giant scenic image for dramatic effect.
Go for colorful and playful wallpaper in kids’ living rooms.
Choose metallic or glitter wallpaper for straight disco-era glam.
Grasscloth wallpaper brings lovely organic texture into a space.
Wallpaper only the bottom half of a wall for a chair rail effect.
Look for prepasted wallpaper for much easier DIY installation.
Use whimsical Toile wallpaper as a chic foil to minimalist decor.
Peel-and-stick wallpaper allows you to easily refresh the look whenever you want.
Pick a sophisticated damask, paisley, or filigree wallpaper design.
Go for faux wood plank wallpaper to mimic rustic cabin walls.
Create a moody, cozy library effect with vintage bookcase wallpaper.
Contrast crisp white walls with punchy black-and-white striped wallpaper.
Wallpaper the inside of built-in bookshelves or display cabinets.
Use detachable wallpaper panels to switch up blank stair risers.
Wood Paneling
Wood paneled walls instantly give a room cozy, rustic cabin vibes.
Opt for reclaimed wood planks for lots of natural texture.
Paint over existing dated wood paneling with crisp white for a fresh look.
Choose wide planks for a dramatic, bold wood wall statement.
Soften the wood by filling knots and sanding for a smooth finish.
Whitewash wood paneling using watered down paint to let the grain show through.
Finish wood walls with clear polyurethane for protection from scratches.
Nail up individual shiplap planks side-by-side for easy DIY wood paneling.
Mix varying wood grain patterns and stains for eclectic farmhouse style.
Use wood paneling as wainscoting on the lower half of walls.
Accent wood walls with black wrought iron candle sconces.
Opt for rich medium-tone stains to warm up wood paneling.
Paint inside the grooves of wood paneling white for contrast.
Display family photos and antique signs directly on wood paneled walls.
Add window trim, baseboards, and crown molding to match the wood walls.
Choose pine, cedar, or redwood boards for easy working and staining.
Line the walls with faux reclaimed wood paneling for an affordable option.
Layer colorful vintage quilts or Native American rugs over wood paneled walls.
Accentuate wood walls with floating shelves, ladders, and railings.
Nail up individual shiplap planks side-by-side for easy DIY wood paneling.
Display collections of antlers, farming tools, and western memorabilia.
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Brick or Stone
Exposed brick or stone walls add rugged texture and a cozy vibe.
Whitewash brick for a softened, shabby-chic aesthetic.
Paint bold colors between the brick for playful contrast.
Display wrought iron wall sconces or candleholders mounted on stone.
Add steel beams or barn doors to complement the raw industrial look.
Accentuate architectural details like arches, alcoves, or decorative trims.
Bring in natural elements like wood furniture, jute rugs, and linen.
Soften rough brick or stone with layered rugs and textiles.
Choose a matte paint color so the texture still shows through.
Add a warm glow with vintage-style Edison bulbs.
Incorporate rustic elements like rope, galvanized metal, and leather.
Make brick the statement wall to anchor eclectic furnishings.
Display collections of vintage signs, mirrors, or artwork.
Add a carved wood mantle to balance out the stone.
Bring in leafy potted plants to soften the hard edges.
Stack firewood next to the brick fireplace for cozy ambiance.
Use a stencil and whitewash to add patterns onto exposed brick.
Wall Sconces
Wall sconces provide both light and artful style to blank walls.
Go modern with sleek metallic sconces in gold, silver, or brass.
Look for crystal wall sconces to add glamorous, elegant flair.
Rustic forged iron sconces complement vintage, industrial, or farmhouse decors.
Use wall sconces to illuminate artwork and direct light where needed.
Flank a mirror or piece of wall art with matching sconces.
Display wall sconces next to doors and by the bed for handy lighting.
Opt for swing arm sconces that can angle light in different directions.
Install dimmers on sconces to control mood lighting.
Layer candle wall sconces with framed art and mirrors.
Look for unique shapes like jets, branches, orbs, or stars.
Plants & Greenery
Liven up bare walls by displaying an array of potted plants.
Create a living green accent wall with rows of planters mounted on shelves.
Hang trailing vine plants like ivy or philodendrons in macrame holders.
Go for tall and spiky succulents to make a graphic statement.
Plant vibrant blooming flowers like orchids or bromeliads.
Use a mix of ceramic, woven, metal, and glass planters for variety.
Display air plants creatively on pieces of aged wood or in glass terrariums.
Use washi tape to display smaller potted plants on the wall creatively.
Group round terracotta pots at different heights on the wall.
Create a pallet wood plant wall with rows of potted succulents.
Paint the back of bookcases bright colors to highlight the greenery.
Add grow lights to help nourish plants in darker parts of rooms.
Consider easy care plants like succulents, snake plants, or pothos.
Hang macrame plant holders at varying lengths for interest.
Use command hooks to display smaller potted plants on the wall.
Arrange assorted cacti and succulents for a desert-chic vibe.
Weave ivy or philodendrons through macrame hangers.
Display a vibrant indoor garden with mood-boosting colors.
Create a living art installation with creative potted plant arrangements.
Wall Decals
Wall decals easily add color, patterns, or images without painting.
Create a accent wall with overlapping botanical-themed decals.
Metallic or glitter decals add instant glam to any space.
Decorate a kid’s room with their favorite characters or animals.
Use decals to add your favorite inspirational quotes to the walls.
Highlight stair risers with eye-catching removable decals.
Try abstract wall decals with geometrics, circles, or squiggles.
Use wall decals to designate different zones or activities in a room.
Removable decals make it easy to update your style down the road.
Create a focal point over the bed with bold graphic decals.
Decorate the backs of bookcases or shelving with colorful decals.
Use wall decals to add personality without committing to permanent wallpaper.
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Textured Paint
Textured or dimensional paint adds subtle visual interest to walls.
Opt for Venetian plaster paint to mimic old-world sophistication.
Try faux crackle paint for an antiqued, worn-in look.
Use textured paint techniques like sponging, stippling, or color washing.
Consider metallic sheens, like silver leaf, for glam accent walls.
Look for specialty ready-mixed paints with pearl, sand, or granite-like finishes.
DIY sand textured paint by mixing fine sand into regular wall paint.
Achieve a suede-like nubby appearance with textured matte paint.
Apply glaze over paint for a subtle sheen and depth.
Use textured paint ideas sparingly on accent walls or focal areas.
Molding
Add visual interest to walls with crown molding, wainscoting, or chair rails.
Paint molding in a contrasting color to really make it pop.
Try wall panel molding for a more modern, streamlined look.
Display artwork inside wall molding frames as built-in canvases.
Use molding as frames to accentuate doorways and windows.
Go for carved wood molding for an elegant, elevated aesthetic.
Incorporate shiplap molding for rustic cottage style.
Layer chair rail and wainscoting molding halfway up walls.
Finish the edges of walls with simple baseboard trim.
Extend crown molding to shelving, cabinets, and the ceiling.
Shelving
Wall-mounted shelving provides both display space and decoration.
Try industrial pipes and wood boards for easy DIY shelving.
Go bold with black metal edging and shelves against light walls.
Floating box shelves create handy ledges for vases, books, and more.
Make it eclectic with mismatched shelves, baskets, and objects.
Use ladders horizontally to hang towels in bathrooms.
Display collections and rotate out frequently for a change.
Mount shelving to highlight wall accents like textiles or artwork.
Stagger shelving at different levels for lots of storage options.
Maximize narrow awkward spaces with slim wall-mounted shelves.
Wallpaper Borders
Define spaces and add visual interest with wallpaper borders.
Use borders to create chair rail, picture frame, or wainscoting effects.
Try removable wallpaper borders for non-permanent options.
Look for prepasted borders to simplify messy wallpaper application.
Wallpaper just below the ceiling line to make rooms feel taller.
Highlight niches, doorways, fireplaces, or cabinets with framing borders.
Contain colorful kids’ art to a border in their rooms.
Layer contrasting patterns and colors of borders together.
Use borders to test out bold wallpaper prints without overdoing it.
Patterned borders help ground busy artwork or shelving displays.
