How to Choose the Right Accent Wall for Your Room
Start with the wall your eye goes to first when you walk in. Skip walls broken up by several doors or windows, because the effect gets lost. In most living rooms this is the wall behind the sofa or TV, and in bedrooms the wall behind the bed.
Then match the material to how the room is used. Busy family rooms need finishes that handle bumps and cleaning, such as painted panel molding. Bathrooms need tile, sealed wood or PVC panels that stand up to steam.
Finally, check the light. Many Chicago rooms face north or sit close to the next building, so they get cool, limited daylight. Deep colors look darker there than on a sample card, so test a large swatch in the room first.