Does your home need a revamp? Are you tired of the interior style of your living spaces? Well, we have some DIY project ideas for you. Style director Louise Hilsz shares how to decorate a large wall in your home and make it a stunning feature.

Apply Patterned Wallpaper

Creating a statement wall with wallpaper in your living room is a powerful way to inject personality and visual interest; select a focal wall, choose a bold wallpaper pattern or texture that complements your existing decor while contrasting with the other walls, ensure proper wall preparation and application, and tie the statement wall into the room with coordinating accessories to create a cohesive and impactful design.

Image: Resene Infinity 2 Wallpaper Collection IF3-036 available from Resene ColorShops.

Hang Oversized Artwork

Hanging a large statement piece of art in your living room can instantly elevate the space, but it requires careful consideration. First, choose the right wall: select a prominent, uncluttered wall that allows the artwork to breathe and become the focal point. Measure: accurately measure the artwork and the wall to ensure the piece isn't too large or too small for the space. A good rule of thumb is that the artwork should be about two-thirds to three-quarters the width of the wall or the furniture it's hung above. Consider the height: the artwork's centre should ideally be at eye level (around 57-60 inches from the floor), but adjust based on ceiling height and furniture placement. Use appropriate hardware: for a large, heavy piece, invest in sturdy picture hooks or D-rings and strong picture wire rated for the weight of the artwork. If you're unsure, it's always best to err on the side of caution and use heavier-duty hardware. Get help: don't attempt to lift and hang a large piece on your own; enlist a friend or professional to ensure it's safely and securely mounted. Finally, step back and assess: once hung, take a few steps back from different angles to ensure the artwork is well-positioned and balanced within the room.

Image: Domino

Go for a Gallery Wall

Creating a gallery wall in your living room is a fantastic way to showcase your personality and art collection. Start by gathering pieces you love, mixing different sizes, styles, and mediums for visual interest. Plan your layout by arranging the pieces on the floor or using paper cutouts on the wall to find a balanced composition before committing to nails. Consider a unifying element like frame colour or a colour palette within the artwork to create cohesion. Hang the center of the arrangement at eye level and keep spacing consistent, typically 2-3 inches apart. Don't be afraid to incorporate non-traditional items like textiles or small decorative objects for added texture and depth.

Image: Anerza 16 PCS Framed Eclectic Wall Art Decor, $99.

Hang or Paint a Wall Mural

For a painted mural, wall preparation and a detailed design are crucial; use quality paints and brushes, working in sections and stepping back often to ensure accuracy, and seal the finished artwork for durability. When hanging a wallpaper mural, prepare the wall thoroughly, measure precisely, and plan the panel layout; use a plumb line for alignment, apply adhesive evenly, carefully match patterns between panels, trim excess, and clean up paste as you go, allowing it to dry undisturbed.

Image: Resene Infinity 2 Wallpaper Collection IF4-084 available from Resene ColorShops.

Install Floating shelves

Floating wall shelves can create a clean and modern look, but careful installation is key. First, plan your shelf layout and use a level to mark the desired positions on the wall, considering weight distribution and what you intend to display. Locate wall studs whenever possible, as screwing directly into studs provides the most secure support; if studs aren't available, use appropriate drywall anchors rated for the intended weight. Precisely drill pilot holes and securely attach the shelf brackets or mounting hardware, ensuring they are level. Finally, slide the shelf onto the brackets and double-check its stability before placing items, starting with the heaviest items closest to the wall.

Image: Pinterest

Create Architectural Interest

Adding trim or moulding to a wall can significantly enhance its aesthetic appeal. Before planning your design, accurately measure the walls, accounting for corners and potential waste. Use a mitre saw for precise angled cuts, especially for corners, aiming for a tight, seamless fit. Secure the moulding to the wall using a combination of construction adhesive and brad nails, ensuring it's level and flush against the surface. For a professional finish, fill nail holes and gaps with wood filler or caulk, sand smooth, and then prime and paint the moulding, often contrasting or complementary to the wall.

Image: Pinterest

Use Statement Colour

To paint a statement wall in your living room, choose a prominent, bold colour that complements your décor and desired mood, remembering to test a sample first in the light. Prepare the wall by cleaning and filling imperfections, using painter's tape for sharp lines, and applying even coats of quality paint. Finally, remove the tape carefully and enjoy the transformational impact of your new focal point.