37 Trending Kitchen Accent Wall Ideas and Inspiring Design

May 25, 2023
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Kitchen Accent Wall Ideas

When you think of an accent wall, the first thing to come to your mind probably isn’t the kitchen. But why not? Many kitchen designs tend to stick to neutral colors. So, what better place is there to add a pop of color or a geometric designs pattern? Whether you have a small kitchen or a very large open kitchen, an eye-catching accent wall may be just the decorative element your kitchen needs.

Header Image: Kitchen accent wall ideas

Let’s dive in and explore 37 kitchen accent wall ideas that may just inspire your next home renovation project. Whether you’re looking for a rustic stone accent wall or a playful polka dot pattern, this post has you covered.

37 Trending Kitchen Accent Wall Ideas

1. Classic Subway Tiles in a Herringbone Pattern:

One of my favorite kitchen accent wall ideas! Want to bring a timeless and elegant look to your kitchen? Herringbone patterns are a great way to add depth and texture to a space. Adding this pattern behind a range, or open shelving adds visual interest to the space. Pair this look with natural wood accents and warm lighting to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere…Tile Boutique

Kitchen accent wall ideas: white subway tile in a herringbone patter on a bathroom wall

Image: TileBoutique.com.au

2. Classic Subway Tile in a Vertical Pattern:

Give your kitchen a taller and more spacious look with a vertical subway tile pattern. Vertical patterns naturally draw the eye upward, which can, in turn, create the illusion of height in a room. A vertical pattern works well in smaller kitchens that need to feel more open and airy.

Classic white subway tiles are a timeless choice for this pattern.

Two different ways a vertical pattern can be created are:

  • Stacking the tiles vertically, one on top of the other. This will add a more modern look.
  • Laying the tiles in a staggered vertical pattern, creating a more traditional look.

Varroview Homes

Classic subway tile in a vertical pattern behind a laundry room sink

Image: VarroViewHomes.com.au

3. Classic Subway Tile in a Horizontal Pattern:

Another pattern that can make your space look bigger than it is. Classic subway tiles in a horizontal pattern can make your kitchen look wider and more spacious. Horizontal patterns draw the eye outward, which can create the illusion of width in the room. They work well in larger kitchens that need to feel more cozy and inviting. Once again, classic white subway tile are a timeless choice for this pattern and can be arranged in two different ways:

  • laying the tiles horizontally, one next to the other will create a more modern look
  • Laying the tiles in a staggered horizontal pattern is more of a traditional look…

@InteriorsByJCurry

Open shelving on a classic horizontal subway tile wall

Image: @InteriorsByJCurry

4. Rustic Wood Paneling for a Cozy Feel:

Rustic wood paneling can bring warmth and texture to your kitchen, and create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Choosing natural wood paneling leans more towards a traditional look. For a more contemporary design, painted paneling is a great option. Rustic wood paneling pairs well with warm lighting, natural stone countertops, and neutral or white cabinets. It can also be used to create a contrast with more modern design elements, such as stainless steel appliances or sleek lighting fixtures… HomeBunch.com

Rustic wood paneling accent wall in a kitchen

Image: HomeBunch.com

5. Elegant Marble in a Neutral Color Palette:

While a large marble slab can bring a luxurious and sophisticated look to your kitchen, it also adds visual interest and depth to the space. Neutral color palettes, such as shades of white, gray, or beige, work well with marble slabs and can create a timeless and elegant design… @winter_mcdermott

A kitchen island with 3 bar stools and a marble tile backdrop

Image: @winter_mcdermott

6. Kitchen Accent Wall Ideas-Textured Wallpaper:

Adding a textured wallpaper to your kitchen can create a unique and interesting design element. Bold prints, such as floral or geometric patterns, can make a statement and add personality to the space. Textured wallpaper can also add depth and dimension to the wall, and create a cozy and inviting ambience… (Textured wallpaper from Amazon.com)

A textured wallpaper backsplash behind a sink and butcher block countertops

(Textured wallpaper from Amazon.com)

Amazon affiliate link included

7. Statement Wall with a Mural or Large-Scale Wall Art:

Creating a statement wall in your kitchen can showcase your personality and add a unique touch to the space. A mural or large-scale artwork can create a focal point in the room, and make the kitchen feel more personalized and interesting. I love how this large textured fabric artwork turned out in my kitchen. It was so easy to make and is a great conversation piece with guests. Sometimes kitchen accent wall ideas can be as easy as hanging a picture. 🙂

Kitchen island with a large artwork behind it

8. Glossy Metallic Finish for a Modern Touch:

Adding a glossy metallic finish to an accent wall can bring a touch of glamour and modernity to a room. Metallic finishes in gold, silver, or bronze can create a sophisticated and stylish look, and reflect light to make the room feel brighter and more spacious. The metallic cabinets, concrete finish wall, and glossy penny tile all complement one another perfectly in the beautiful picture below… @juliabimer

Kitchen accent wall ideas: glossy metallic finish with metal cabinets and penny tile

Image: @juliabimer

9. Kitchen Accent Wall Ideas-Colorful Mosaic Tile:

A colorful mosaic tile accent wall can bring a playful and vibrant look to your kitchen. Mosaic tiles come in a variety of different colors and shapes, and can be used to create a unique and interesting design. In the image below, the mosaic tiles pair well with natural wood accents, warm lighting fixtures, and the contrasting beautiful blue cabinets… @traditionsintile

Center island with blue base; mosaic tile backsplash in kitchen

Image: @traditionsintile

10. Classic Shiplap Wall for a Farmhouse Feel:

A classic shiplap wall in your kitchen can bring about a cozy and rustic look. Shiplap is a tongue and groove wooden board that is installed horizontally or vertically, with a slight gap between each board. For a classic, timeless look go for a horizontal shiplap design. If you’re wanting more of a modern feel, vertical shiplap is a great way to achieve this style… @lakeandlandstudio

Classic shiplap for a farmhouse feel.

Image: @lakeandlandstudio

11. Brick Accent Wall for an Industrial Vibe:

Adding a brick wall to your kitchen can bring an industrial and urban feel to the environment. Brick walls add texture and depth to the room, and can give your kitchen a more visual appeal. They work well as an accent wall or as a backsplash. A brick accent wall never fails to draw the eye to it, as shown in the picture below. Where does your eye naturally go? @_chrissmithphotography_

Brick accent wall in kitchen accent wall ideas post

Image: @_chrissmithphotography_

12. Greenery-Filled Living Wall for a Natural Touch:

A living wall can bring a touch of nature and life to your kitchen. What is it, you may ask? A living wall is a wall covered in plants and greenery. This feature wall is sure to create a unique and interesting design element. It can also improve the air quality in your kitchen and create a more natural and healthy environment. I am a huge fan of adding greenery to every room in your home. And the kitchen is no exception… @brownharrisstevens

Living wall in a kitchen with super tall ceilings and large floor to ceiling windows

Image: @brownharrisstevens

13. Playful Polka Dot Pattern in Black and White:

Adding a playful polka dot pattern to your kitchen can create a fun and whimsical atmosphere. They can be used to create a retro-inspired design, or paired with more modern design elements for a contemporary look. I love how this designer used black and white polka dot tile to create visual interest… @pophamdesign

Kitchen accent wall ideas: polka dot tile as a backsplash in a modern kitchen

Image: @pophamdesign

14. Moody Black Wall for a Dramatic Look:

Another one of my favorite kitchen accent wall ideas is as easy as painting a wall black! I love a moody black accent wall! It can easily create a dramatic and sophisticated atmosphere in your kitchen. Dark color walls add depth and dimension to the space, and can create a bold statement. To create a black accent wall, you can use paint or wallpaper to cover the wall. You can also add contrasting elements, such as the white cabinets in the image below, to create visual interest. A moody black wall is also complemented well with natural wood accents and warm lighting… @vickyhellmann

A black accent wall with white cabinets

Image: @vickyhellmann

15. Textured Stone Accent Wall for a Rustic Feel:

Adding a textured stone accent wall to your kitchen can bring a rustic and natural feel to the space. Stone walls add texture and depth to the room. Be sure to bring in natural wood accents to soften the space and create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The subtle touch of gold accents, wooden utensils and neutral color tones achieves a sense of coziness in the image below. All of these elements complement one another so perfectly… @clearstonebuilders

Cobblestone accent wall in a kitchen for kitchen accent wall ideas

Image: @clearstonebuilders

16. Kitchen Accent Wall Ideas-Cobblestone:

After seeing this kitchen accent wall ideas from @maryland_realtor, I found myself searching for the perfect wall to add my own cobblestone touch. Couldn’t you just get lost in the beauty of this kitchen?! That cobblestone accent wall is absolutely stunning. It makes a statement in and of itself and needs nothing more added… @maryland_realtor

Kitchen accent wall ideas: cobblestone wall behind kitchen sink

Image: @maryland_realtor

17. Calming Sage Green Wall for a Soothing Space:

There’s something about the color green. Incorporating green tones into a space will naturally elicit a feeling of peace and calm. By painting an accent wall in your kitchen a sage green color, you will easily create a soothing and relaxing atmosphere. Sage green walls add color and depth to the space. While also creating a refreshing and peaceful environment… @inhonorofdesign

Sage green cabinets in a kitchen with marble slab backsplash

Image: @inhonorofdesign

18. Vintage-Inspired Wallpaper with Floral Motifs:

Hanging a vintage-inspired wallpaper with floral motifs to a wall in your kitchen can bring a charming and feminine feel to the space. Incorporating vintage wallpaper not only offers an element of tactile interest, but also adds a sense of warmth and hospitality. I can’t get enough of my friend, Nicole’s, vintage inspired wallpaper she added to her foyer area. Isn’t it such a beautiful pattern? So pleasing to the eye, with a slight element of surprise. It’s so good.

Vintage inspired wall paper in an entryway with white board and batten

19. Metallic Copper Accent Wall for a Touch of Glamour:

Copper walls reflect light and add depth to the room, along with creating a visually interesting design element. Adding a copper accent wall can bring a touch of glamour and sophistication… @udrapts

Copper accent wall in a large open kitchen

Image: @udrapts

20. Mixed Material Wall with Tile, Wood, and Metal:

Elevate the style of your kitchen by compiling an eye-catching mixed materials accent wall.

Incorporate the following materials to create a stunning and dynamic surface:

  • wood to elicit an organic feel
  • metal for an industrial edge
  • tile for a classic charm

Mixed metals and textures for a kitchen accent wall ideas post

21. Bright and Airy White Vertical Shiplap Wall:

Although I already mentioned shiplap above, I felt that vertical shiplap needs its own section. Vertical shiplap emanates a modern vibe as opposed to the more traditional horizontal shiplap design. Paint it white and you get a bright and airy kitchen with a fresh and clean look… House Beautiful

Sage green kitchen with white vertical shiplap as a backsplash with large windows

Image: HouseBeautiful.com

22. My Kitchen Island Black Planked:

When remodeling my kitchen recently, I knew I wanted to add a huge kitchen island. (Check out this post to see how I built this beauty) Of course, what to face it with was an important decision in the design process. I absolutely love this black planked design I ended up going with. It complements the rest of my modern kitchen so well…

Counter stools pushed up to a black planked breakfast bar

23. Kitchen Accent Wall Ideas-Limewashed Brick:

Introduce a touch of old-world charm and rustic elegance to your kitchen with the addition of a beautifully limewashed brick accent wall.  Limewashing is a technique used to create a soft and subtle texture on the bricks, while also lightening their color. I did this same technique to my exterior brick a few summers back and absolutely love it! (Here’s the post on how I did it) It’s the perfect way to add a statement wall that is sure to elicit conversation… @kristin_c_marks

Kitchen accent wall ideas: limewashed brick with cabinets on the wall

Image: @kristin_c_marks

24. Slatted Wood Accent Wall:

Adding a wood accent wall is the perfect way to add warmth and texture. After painting my entire kitchen white, bringing in wood accents was a must. This wood accent wall helps to break up all of the stark white walls and add structure and dimension. But more importantly, it brings in an element of coziness. (Here’s the post on how I created this wall feature)

Black kitchen island with a Golden Oak stained wood slat accent wall behind it

25. Zellige Tile Backsplash:

Have you heard of Zellige tile? While it is currently all the rage, it has actually been around longer than subway tile. Much longer. We’re talking 10th Century times. Zellige tiles are handmade tiles made from natural clay, and are known for their irregular shape and intricate textured surface. Not to mention, their beautiful, rich color. A Zellige tile backsplash, while super popular right now, will stand the test of time. This design trend is not going anywhere… Tile Club

Zellige style tile backsplash with floating shelves

Image: TileClub.com

26. Kitchen Accent Wall Ideas-Cement:

Do you desire a more modern and industrial feel? A cement accent wall, may be just the design element you’re looking for. An easy way to create a contrast with more traditional design styles, such as classic white cabinets or subway tiles…

A large wooden table with a cement wall backdrop in a kitchen

27.Kitchen Accent Wall Ideas-Chalk Wall:

Adding a chalkboard wall to your kitchen can bring a playful and interactive element to the space. Just add chalkboard paint. Chalk walls are a fun and practical way to write grocery lists, recipes, or notes to family members… @onceuponabungalow

A chalk wall for kitchen accent wall ideas

Image: @onceuponabungalow

28. Board and Batten:

Create a classic and timeless look by adding a board and batten accent wall to your kitchen. Board and batten walls are a type of wainscoting that combines vertical boards with narrow battens. I could literally add board and batten to all of my walls. Of all the accent walls, I have created in my home, board and batten is my all time favorite. It truly is an evergreen feature that will fit with any design style and will always stand the test of time. With so many different board and batten designs to choose from, you can’t go wrong with this accent wall choice…

A beautiful kitchen with board and batten wall treatment in the nook area

29. Gallery Artwork Wall:

Adding a gallery artwork wall to your kitchen can bring color and personality to the space. Gallery walls are a collection of framed artwork or photographs that are hung together in a group. To create a gallery artwork wall, you will need to choose the right artwork or photographs, frame them, and plan the layout of the wall. You can use a combination of frames and sizes to create a visually interesting display. Or for a more modern, monochromatic look, choose frames that are all the same or of the same texture or color… @weloveprintsuk

Gallery wall in a kitchen

Image: @weloveprintsuk

30. Kitchen Accent Wall Ideas-Pop of Color:

You can never go wrong with adding an element of surprise. Throwing in a pop of color to your kitchen is sure to create a fun and creative atmosphere. You can add a pop of bold color to your walls with paint, wallpaper, or tile. You can also add color through your decor, accessories, or cabinetry as shown in the picture below…. Lulu and Georgia

Green cabinets in a vintage styled kitchen

Image: luluandgeorgia.com/

31. Black and White Wall:

Nothing screams classic and timeless like the colors black and white together. This black and white color scheme block backsplash creates a visually interesting design element… @thelawrenceedit

Color block wall with black in white for kitchen accent wall ideas

Image: @thelawrenceedit

32.Kitchen Accent Wall Ideas-Accented Ceiling:

Another design element that I could easily add to every room in my home is an accented ceiling. My favorite way to accent a ceiling is by adding beams or wood planks. It’s amazing what this simple change does to a room… @love_the_room

Accented ceiling and wood beams in a kitchen

Image: @love_the_room

33. Staggered Wood Slat Accent Wall:

With so many different types of wood accent walls to choose from, this one was so much fun to create. While I have this accent wall in my master bedroom, it would look great in a kitchen. And that green color!! Perfect! (Here’s how I created this wall)

Slatted bedroom wall with green paint

34. Kitchen Accent Wall Ideas-Open Shelving:

Adding open shelving to your kitchen can create a functional and stylish storage solution. Open shelves allow you to display your tableware and other kitchen accessories in a visually interesting way. Deciding on how many shelves to go with is dependent on the height of your ceilings and of course, personal preference. If I were to take the plunge and rip out all of my upper cabinets, I would add 1 shelf. I like the streamlined more modern look of one shelf, versus the traditional look of multiple shelves. But again, it is truly personal choice… @shoppeamberinteriors

Open shelving in a kitchen with marble slab backsplash and potted greenery

Image: @shoppeamberinteriors

35.Kitchen Accent Wall Ideas-Chevron Tile Pattern:

Adding a chevron tile pattern to your kitchen can create a modern and geometric design element. Chevron tiles are laid out in a V-shaped pattern, and can be used to create a visually interesting accent wall or backsplash behind a sink or stove. @kristahome

Chevron tile pattern in a kitchen backsplash

Image: @kristahome

36. Photo Memoir Accent Wall:

Sometimes kitchen accent wall ideas can be a very personal touch. I recently saw this idea in a friend’s home and instantly fell in love with it. My friend, Kari, has an entire wall dedicated to her family’s travels. Talk about a conversation piece. Such a great idea!

Kitchen accent wall ideas: photo gallery wall with family vacation images

37. Kitchen Accent Wall Ideas-Geometric Pattern:

Adding a geometric pattern to your kitchen can create a modern and abstract design element. I love how this creative wall adds dimension and structure to this open kitchen/dining room space… @hanashappyhome

Geometric accent wall in a kitchen nook of the kitchen

Image: @hanashappyhome

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