A nursery accent wall can make the nursery stand out, adding flair and charm to the room.
From vibrant wallpaper to rustic wooden panels, explore creative ideas to create a delightful space for your little one.
What is an Accent Wall?
An accent wall is a single wall within a room that is different from the other walls in terms of color, texture, or design.
It’s typically used to create visual interest, add depth, or highlight a specific area of the room.
Accent walls can be painted a different color, adorned with wallpaper, or decorated with various materials like wood panels or stone veneers.
They serve as a focal point and can enhance the overall aesthetics of a space.
Which Wall In The Nursery Should Be The Accent Wall?
In a nursery, the accent wall is usually the wall behind the crib or the wall opposite the entry point of the room.
These locations help draw attention to the focal point of the nursery and create a visually appealing backdrop for the crib or main area of activity.
However, the choice ultimately depends on the layout and design of the nursery, as well as personal preference.
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Important Tips
Don’t forget to read these tips before you design your baby room’s accent wall.
- Choose a Focal Point: Decide what you want the focal point of the accent wall to be, whether it’s the crib, a piece of furniture, or a decorative item like a mirror or wall art.
- Create Balance: Balance is key to a well-designed nursery. Consider the placement of furniture and decor items on the accent wall to ensure visual harmony.
- Use Scale and Proportion: Choose decor items that are proportionate to the size of the wall and the rest of the room. Oversized or undersized items can throw off the balance of the space.
- Layer Textures: Layering different textures adds depth and richness to the nursery. Mix and match materials like wood, fabric, and metal to create visual interest.
- Play with Color Psychology: Colors can affect mood and behavior, so choose hues that promote a sense of calm and tranquility in the nursery. Soft pastels or neutral tones are often recommended for a soothing environment.
- Consider Lighting: Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the ambiance of the nursery. Incorporate both natural and artificial lighting to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
- Maximize Storage: Maximize storage options on the accent wall to keep the nursery organized and clutter-free. Consider built-in shelving, wall-mounted organizers, or baskets for storing essentials.
- Add Personal Touches: Customize the accent wall with personal touches such as framed photos, personalized wall art, or DIY decorations to make the nursery feel more intimate and special.
- Consider Functionality: If possible, choose decor items that serve a dual purpose, such as shelving for storage or a decorative ladder for hanging clothes or blankets.
- Keep Safety in Mind: Ensure that all decorations are securely attached to the wall and are out of reach of the baby to prevent accidents.
- Step Back and Assess: Before finalizing the decor, step back and assess the overall look of the accent wall to ensure it achieves the desired effect and complements the rest of the nursery.
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Nursery Accent Wall Ideas
Check out the following nursery accent wall ideas that can make the baby’s room stand out:
1- Board And Batten Wall
The board and batten nursery accent wall is super popular because it looks awesome and adds a cool touch to the baby’s room.
Here’s how to do it: first, measure and mark the wall. Then, cut wooden boards and stick them on the wall vertically.
After that, add thin strips horizontally between the boards.
Now for painting: cover the wall with primer first, then paint the boards and strips with your favorite color.
Make sure to use baby-safe paint. Let it dry completely before adding anything else to the room.
That’s it! You’ve got a stylish board and batten accent wall in the nursery.
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2- Wallpaper
Wallpaper is another popular option for nursery decor, offering an easy and stylish way to spruce up the room.
Peel and stick wallpaper, in particular, has gained traction for its simplicity and mess-free application.
With peel-and-stick wallpaper, you can easily transform a nursery wall without the need for messy glues or pastes.
When choosing wallpaper, consider the theme of the nursery.
Floral and patterned wallpapers are among the most popular choices, adding a whimsical and charming touch to the space.
Whether you’re going for a nature-inspired theme or something more abstract, there are countless options to choose from.
Many peel and stick wallpapers are readily available on Amazon, offering a wide selection of designs to suit any nursery theme.
Simply peel off the backing and stick the wallpaper onto the wall for an instant transformation.
It’s a quick and affordable way to add personality and style to your baby’s room.
3- Wainscotting
Wainscoting is adding fancy wooden panels to the bottom part of a nursery wall.
It’s popular because it makes the room look nice and cozy.
Here’s how to do it: first, measure the wall and cut the wooden panels to size.
Then, stick or nail them to the wall, leaving a little space between each one.
can also add extra decoration if you want.
Finally, paint or stain the wood to match the nursery.
That’s it! You’ve got a cool wainscoting accent wall in the baby’s room.
4- Wainscotting + Wallpaper
Combining wainscoting with wallpaper in a nursery is like giving your wall a double treat!
The bottom part gets a cool look with wooden panels called wainscoting, while the top part can be covered in your favorite wallpaper.
Start by setting up the wainscoting: measure, cut, and stick or nail the wooden panels to the lower part of the wall. Leave some space between each panel for a neat look.
Now, for the fun part! Choose a wallpaper that matches your nursery theme. Peel off the backing and stick it onto the upper part of the wall. Smooth out any bubbles for a perfect finish.
Voila! You’ve got a super stylish nursery with a mix of wainscoting and wallpaper, making it the envy of every baby in town!
5- Wainscotting + Wall Art
Combining wainscoting with wall art in a nursery is a wonderful way to create a visually appealing accent wall.
Start by setting up the wainscoting: measure, cut, and attach the wooden panels to the lower part of the wall.
Make sure they’re evenly spaced for a neat look.
Now, for the upper part!
Choose a beautiful piece of wall art that complements your nursery theme.
It could be a cute animal painting, a colorful print, or even a personalized artwork.
Hang the wall art on the upper portion of the wall, making sure it’s centered and at eye level.
This creates a lovely contrast between the solid wainscoting below and the decorative wall art above.
Step back and admire your handiwork! With wainscoting and wall art, you’ve created a stunning accent wall that adds charm and personality to your baby’s nursery.
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6- Classic Wall Panels
Classic wall panels elevate nursery decor with timeless elegance.
Install them by measuring and affixing evenly spaced panels to the wall.
Enhance this classic look by adding a wreath, wall art, or wall-mounted lamps.
A wreath placed on a panel’s center creates a charming focal point, while wall art within the panels enhances the aesthetic.
You can opt for prints or paintings that match the nursery’s style.
Wall-mounted lamps on either side of the panels offer soft, adjustable lighting for late-night needs and contribute to the decor.
With classic wall panels adorned with wreaths, art, or lamps, your nursery boasts a beautiful and functional accent wall.
7- Polka Dot Wallpaper
Polka dot wallpaper is super popular for nursery accent walls.
It’s loved because it’s fun and cute!
You can find lots of polka dot wallpapers on Amazon.
They come in all kinds of colors and styles, so you can pick the perfect one for your baby’s room.
Putting up polka dot wallpaper is easy peasy.
Just peel off the backing and stick it on the wall.
That’s it! It’s a simple way to make your nursery look adorable and playful.
And if you ever want to change it, no worries! It comes off easily too.
So, with polka dot wallpaper, you can turn your nursery into a happy place for your little one in no time!
8- Wood Wall
Crafting a DIY wood wall for your nursery is a wonderful way to infuse rustic charm into the space.
Choose your preferred wood, like reclaimed pallet wood or cedar planks, from a local store.
Plan out your pattern, whether it’s simple geometric shapes or intricate designs.
Cut the wood accordingly and attach it to the wall using nails, screws, or adhesive.
Consider staggering the pieces for visual interest.
Leave the wood natural or paint/stain it to match your nursery decor.
The result? A stunning patterned wood wall adds warmth and character to the room, creating a cozy haven for your little one to enjoy.
9- Use Paint To Decorate The Nursery Accent Wall
Painting the nursery wall offers endless creativity.
Try a rainbow behind the crib for a cheerful vibe or paint patterns like geometric shapes or stripes.
Prepare the wall with primer, then sketch your design with pencil or painter’s tape.
Use baby-safe paint for a healthy environment. With a little paint, you can create a colorful and inviting space for your little one to enjoy.
10- Use Lighting
Using lighting to decorate the accent wall adds a magical touch to the nursery.
LED lights or lamps can turn the main wall into a captivating focal point.
Pairing them with patterns or wall murals enhances the charm even further.
You can install LED strips along the edges of the wall to create a soft glow or place lamps strategically to highlight specific areas.
Consider incorporating them into the design, such as tracing the outline of a mural or accentuating a pattern.
With lighting, you can elevate the nursery’s ambiance and create a delightful space for your little one to enjoy.
11- Wall Art
Using wall art to decorate the accent wall is one of the most popular and timeless ways to add personality to a nursery.
Wall art comes in various styles, from nature-inspired to abstract and floral designs, allowing you to tailor the decor to your taste and theme.
Nature-inspired wall art brings the beauty of the outdoors inside, with images of trees, animals, and landscapes creating a sense of tranquility and wonder.
Abstract art offers a modern and dynamic aesthetic, with bold colors and shapes stimulating visual interest and imagination.
Floral wall art adds a touch of femininity and elegance, with delicate blooms and botanical motifs infusing the space with charm and grace.
No matter the style, wall art serves as a focal point, drawing the eye and setting the tone for the nursery.
It allows you to express your creativity and create a welcoming and inspiring environment for your little one to grow and thrive.
12- Floating Shelves
Using floating shelves to decorate the accent wall is a practical and stylish way to add both storage and visual interest to the nursery.
These shelves can be adorned with functional items such as books, wall art, decor pieces, or customized items.
Decorating with functional items not only adds charm to the nursery but also serves a purpose.
Books can be easily accessible for bedtime stories, while wall art and decor pieces contribute to the overall aesthetic of the room.
It’s crucial to ensure that anything placed above the crib is securely hung and has no chance of falling.
Use sturdy brackets and install shelves according to manufacturer instructions.
Avoid placing heavy items or objects that could potentially pose a safety hazard.
With floating shelves adorned with functional and decorative items, you can create a personalized and organized space that’s both beautiful and safe for your little one.
Overwhelmed with baby prep?
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13- Wall Decals
Using wall decals is a fantastic way to decorate the nursery accent wall easily.
These stickers come in various designs, from animals to shapes and quotes, adding charm and personality to the room.
They’re simple to apply and remove, making them perfect for changing up the decor as your child grows.
Just peel off the backing and stick them on the wall – no mess or fuss!
14- Tapestry
A tapestry is a type of textile art that is woven on a loom.
It typically features intricate designs or patterns and can be made from various materials such as wool, cotton, or silk.
Using a tapestry to decorate the nursery accent wall can add a personalized touch to the space.
A customized name tapestry, featuring your baby’s name, is a charming and unique addition to the room.
Additionally, there are other types of tapestries that can enhance the decor, such as nature-inspired, floral, abstract, or animal-theme.
15- Macrame Wall Hanging
Macramé hangings are beautiful and intricate pieces of textile art that can add a touch of bohemian charm to a nursery accent wall.
These hangings are made by knotting cords or ropes together in various patterns, creating stunning designs that can range from simple to elaborate.
In a nursery, a macramé hanging can serve as a focal point, adding texture and visual interest to the space.
You can choose from a variety of designs, including geometric patterns, intricate knots, or even customized pieces with your baby’s name woven into the design.
Macramé hangings are versatile and can be easily customized to match your nursery’s theme and color scheme.
16- Decorative Ladder
A decorative ladder near the accent wall offers both storage and style in the nursery.
Lean it against the wall and hang baby clothes or towels on the rungs for easy access and a charming display.
Choose a ladder that fits the nursery’s theme, whether rustic wood or sleek metal, to add a functional and decorative element to the room.
17- Mirror
Using a mirror on the accent wall is a popular choice for brightening up the nursery.
It reflects light and creates the illusion of a larger space, making the room feel more open and airy.
Mirrors also add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the decor.
Whether it’s a simple round mirror or a decorative framed mirror, it can instantly elevate the nursery’s ambiance and create a cheerful and welcoming atmosphere for your little one.
18- Checkered Wall
Using checkered wallpaper on the nursery accent wall adds a playful and stylish touch to the room.
The classic pattern creates visual interest and can be customized to match the nursery’s color scheme.
Whether it’s traditional black and white checks or colorful variations, checkered wallpaper adds charm and personality to the space.
It’s a timeless choice that can grow with your child and create a delightful backdrop for their early years.
19- Arches
Painting arches on the accent wall is a trendy and eye-catching way to add architectural interest to the nursery.
These graceful curves create a sense of elegance and whimsy, transforming the space into a charming and inviting haven for your little one.
Whether you opt for simple, single arches or more elaborate designs with multiple arches, painting them on the accent wall adds a unique and personalized touch to the room.
Plus, you can customize the colors to match the nursery’s theme, creating a cohesive and stylish look that will delight both you and your baby.
20- Slat Nursery Accent Wall
A slat nursery accent wall brings modern flair and warmth to your baby’s space.
Arrange vertical wooden slats horizontally across the wall for a striking pattern.
Measure and mark the wall before cutting and attaching the slats evenly with nails, screws, or adhesive.
Leave the wood natural for a rustic feel or paint it to match your nursery decor.
Enhance the wall with shelves, artwork, or hanging plants for added charm.
This trendy design choice adds character and depth, creating a cozy environment for your little one to enjoy.
21- Geometric Wallpaper

Geometric wallpaper is a trendy choice for nursery accent walls.
Featuring bold shapes like triangles, squares, or hexagons, this wallpaper adds modern flair and visual interest to the room.
The clean lines and symmetry of geometric patterns create a sense of order and harmony, making the nursery feel calm and stylish.
Whether you prefer subtle neutrals or vibrant colors, there are geometric wallpaper options to suit every taste and decor theme.
Installing geometric wallpaper is a simple way to transform the nursery into a contemporary and inviting space that both you and your baby will love.
Overwhelmed with baby prep?
Here’s a FREE checklist of 45 important things to do to Prepare For a Baby

22- Abstract Wall
Abstract patterns or paint strokes on the wall can add a unique and artistic touch to the nursery.
Whether you choose to paint abstract shapes, swirls, or brushstrokes, this style brings a sense of creativity and energy to the room.
Abstract designs allow for freedom of expression and can be customized to match the nursery’s color palette and theme.
They create a visually dynamic and stimulating environment for your little ones to explore as they grow.
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