If you’re looking to spice up a boring room, an accent wall is an easy way to create a focal point. While plain color walls were popular a few years ago, we’re now seeing more creative options like trim, wallpaper, and murals. For something really unique, check out Joanna Gaines’ tile accent wall from her “Mini Reni” series. Tiled accent walls can make a space look more high-end by adding color, texture, and pattern. Like Joanna did, you can use this idea to define an area (like a breakfast nook) or draw the eye to a specific spot in the room, usually around a big window or other focal point.
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Decorate Your Walls With Ideas From Joanna Gaines
Joanna Gaines’ tile accent wall is anything but boring
In episode 2 of Joanna’s “Mini Reni” series, she tackled a breakfast nook wedged between the kitchen and dining room. The windows already had thick wood trim, which Gaines wanted to highlight with a tile accent wall. Since it was a “mini-reni,” the project couldn’t require any demolition, and the materials had to be locally available or ship quickly – perfect for DIYing at home.
Joanna used rectangular white-and-gold tiles, installing them with a dry-stack method for a more handcrafted look (no spacers or grout). This made the install easier and less messy. The vertical tile also made the room look taller, and it was the perfect choice to define the breakfast nook. Gaines finished it off with some shelving and greenery.
What to consider before tiling an accent wall in your home
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If you want to DIY a tile accent wall, the good news is you can tile right over drywall (except in high-moisture areas like showers – use cement board there). There are a few things to consider, but overall it’s a pretty manageable project.
Porcelain and ceramic tiles are affordable, low-maintenance options that come in tons of colors, sizes, and patterns. Natural stone is more expensive and requires more upkeep, so think about what will work best for your space. If it’s a messy area like a kids’ playroom, an easy-to-clean tile is ideal.
Looking for inspiration? Check out examples of intricate accent wall patterns, but plan the layout first to get it right during installation. A little prep work goes a long way in creating the perfect tile accent wall.
