Creative Ways To Decorate Around A Large Wall Unit

Decorating a bedroom with a large wall unit can be a fun project, but it can also be a challenge. The key is to strike a balance between making the wall unit a focal point and ensuring it blends in with the rest of the room's decor. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Use a large-scale mirror

A large-scale mirror is a versatile and powerful tool for decorating a bedroom with a large wall unit. Here are some ideas on how to use a large-scale mirror to enhance the space and create a stylish and functional bedroom:

Create the Illusion of Extra Space

One of the most well-known benefits of mirrors is their ability to create the illusion of extra space. A large-scale mirror placed opposite a large wall unit can visually expand the room, making it feel more open and spacious. This is especially effective if the mirror reflects a bright window or a light source, as it will bounce the light around the room, making the space feel brighter and larger.

Choose a Style that Suits Your Taste

Large-scale mirrors come in various styles, from modern silhouettes to old-school grandeur. You can choose a mirror with an ornate frame or one with a simple, sleek design. Consider a mirror with an interesting shape, such as a dramatic arch or an oversized round mirror, to create a focal point in the room. Alternatively, opt for a mirror that mimics the shape of windowpanes for a unique twist.

Play with Reflections and Light

When positioning your large-scale mirror, consider the reflections it will create. Place it strategically to reflect a beautiful view, such as a garden or a cityscape, bringing the outdoors in and adding a sense of depth to the room. Additionally, mirrors can be used to reflect light sources, such as lamps or candles, enhancing the lighting in the room and creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Create a Gallery Wall

Instead of hanging multiple pieces of art, create a gallery wall with different-sized mirrors. This idea is perfect for a boho aesthetic and will reflect light, giving the bedroom depth. Play with various frame styles to achieve a modern or industrial look, or opt for classic boho frames. A grouping of mirrors will add an artistic touch to the space while also serving a functional purpose.

Opt for a Leaning Floor Mirror

For a more relaxed and casual vibe, consider an oversized leaning floor mirror. This style of mirror creates a similar effect to a gallery wall, reflecting light and creating the illusion of extra space. However, it feels more effortless and can be easily moved or adjusted. Opt for a floor mirror with a unique frame or an interesting shape to make it a statement piece.

Hang a gallery wall

Hanging a gallery wall is a great way to decorate a bedroom with a large wall unit. It can be a fun way to display your personality and style and will never go out of style. Here are some tips to help you create a stunning gallery wall:

Plan Your Gallery Wall:

Before you start hammering nails into your wall, it's essential to plan your gallery wall layout. Measure the wall space you want to fill and then tape off a box of that size on your floor or a large table. Gather your artwork, photos, and other items you want to display, and lay them out within the taped area. This will allow you to experiment with different arrangements without putting holes in your wall. Try to keep the space between each piece around 2 to 3 inches to avoid a crowded look.

Choose a Colour Palette:

Sticking to a cohesive colour palette will give your gallery wall a curated and pulled-together appearance. Try to select pieces that have similar tones and intensities, such as neutrals, blues, and golds. This will create a sense of harmony in your gallery wall. However, if you prefer a more personal and fun approach, feel free to mix and match colours and styles.

Start with a Large Piece:

Begin by placing your largest piece first and build around it. Place your biggest artwork in one of the four outer corners if you have a smaller collection. If you have a larger collection, place it off-centre but towards the middle. This will create a visual flow and guide your viewer's eye around the gallery wall.

Mix Horizontal and Vertical Pieces:

To add interest and variety to your gallery wall, mix horizontal and vertical pieces. If your largest pieces are horizontal, place a smaller vertical piece next to them, and vice versa. This will help you create a balanced and dynamic composition.

Don't Be Afraid to Mix Frame Styles:

If you have a large wall and many pieces, don't be afraid to mix different frame styles. Start with two or three frame styles, such as simple black or white frames and a wooden option. Then, you can bring in more ornate or colourful frames to add a pop of interest.

Think Beyond Framed Art:

Not everything on your gallery wall needs to be framed or square. Mix in unframed pieces, such as photo strips, board paintings, textiles, or something sculptural. Adding different shapes, such as oval or round pieces, will give your eye a break from the grid pattern of the gallery wall.

Add a Personal Touch:

Remember that anything can be art! Include personal items such as drawings from friends, old photos, polaroids, or even items like cocktail napkins or ultrasound pictures. Digital prints are also a great, affordable way to support independent artists.

Add a bold splash of colour

A large wall unit in a bedroom can be a great opportunity to add a bold splash of colour and create a unique and vibrant space. Here are some ideas to achieve this:

Paint the Wall Unit a Bold Colour

A bold colour on your wall unit will instantly draw attention and become a focal point of the room. Consider an eye-catching shade like a rich amethyst, a vibrant yellow, or a deep emerald green. These colours will create a cheerful and sophisticated atmosphere. If you're feeling adventurous, try a tropical-cocktail-inspired shade like wasabi or a bold pink.

Use Colourful Accessories

If you're not ready to commit to a bold paint colour, you can add splashes of colour through accessories. Hang colourful framed art, or use decorative objects like vases, baskets, or vintage pieces on and around your wall unit. You could also introduce colour through textiles such as throw pillows, blankets, and curtains in bold hues that complement or contrast with the wall unit.

Create an Accent Wall

Consider painting one wall a bold colour to create an accent wall that will make a statement. This can be the wall behind your wall unit or an adjacent wall to draw attention to that area of the room. Choose a colour that complements the wall unit and adds a pop of interest. You could also use wallpaper to create a unique and bold feature wall.

Play with Lighting

Lighting can enhance the impact of a bold colour choice. Place lamps or other light sources near or on your wall unit to highlight its colour. The right lighting can make a bold colour seem softer or more dramatic, depending on the atmosphere you want to create.

Combine with Neutrals

To ensure your bold colour choice remains the focal point, combine it with neutral colours elsewhere in the room. Use shades like crisp white, soft grey, or warm wood tones to balance the boldness and create a harmonious space. This will also prevent the room from feeling overwhelming or cluttered.

By incorporating these ideas, you can successfully add a bold splash of colour to your bedroom with a large wall unit, creating a space that is both stylish and inviting.

Create a feature wall with wallpaper

If you're looking to decorate a bedroom with a large wall unit, creating a feature wall with wallpaper is a great way to make a bold statement. Here are some tips to help you create a stunning feature wall:

Choose a Bold Wallpaper

When selecting a wallpaper for your feature wall, opt for something bold and eye-catching. A subtle pattern or muted colour palette may get lost and fail to create the desired impact. Look for large-scale designs that resemble artwork, adding movement, colour, and drama to your space.

Consider the Wall Placement

The feature wall should be the first wall people see when they enter the room. It should be a focal point that demands attention and makes a strong first impression. Ideally, it should tie in with the rest of the room's decor, complementing the colour scheme or style of the other walls.

Create Depth with Dark Colours

If you want to create a sense of depth and elegance, consider using dark colours for your feature wall. A deep shade of blue, for example, can add a touch of understated sophistication while beautifully complementing light-coloured furniture and pops of bright colours in the room.

Combine with Natural Materials

You can enhance the feature wall by incorporating natural materials. Consider pairing your wallpaper with wood panelling, either by using real timber or opting for trompe l'oeil wallpaper that mimics the look of wood. This adds a soothing, cabin-like feel to the space.

Extend the Wallpaper to the Ceiling

Don't be afraid to think outside the box. Your feature wall doesn't have to stop at the standard wall height. Consider extending the wallpaper to the ceiling, creating a cohesive and immersive look that transforms your bedroom into a captivating space.

Play with Patterns and Prints

Feature walls are a great opportunity to experiment with patterns and prints. For a rustic country bedroom, a heritage wallpaper print can be a charming choice, especially if used on a single wall to avoid overwhelming the space. Alternatively, you can go for a modern twist on florals by choosing a design with a black base and large-scale blooms for a sophisticated yet contemporary feel.

Creating a feature wall with wallpaper is a fun and effective way to decorate your bedroom with a large wall unit. By following these tips and choosing a bold design that complements your space, you can make a stylish statement that reflects your unique taste.

Play with lighting

Lighting can completely transform your bedroom. It can make a large wall feel inviting and act as a centrepiece to break up the room visually. Here are some ways to play with lighting in a bedroom with a large wall unit:

Wall Sconces

Wall sconces are a great way to add lighting to your bedroom without taking up any floor or surface space. They can be placed on either side of a large wall unit, providing both ambient and task lighting. If you opt for plug-in wall sconces, you have the added benefit of flexibility as you can easily move them around or replace them without having to deal with wiring.

Pendant Lights

Pendant lights are another option for adding lighting to your bedroom. Hanging pendant lights on either side of the bed can create a cosy and intimate atmosphere. If you have a large bedroom, consider using pendant lights to define different areas within the room, such as a reading nook or a vanity.

Floor Lamps

Floor lamps are a versatile option that can add a decorative touch to your bedroom while providing adjustable lighting. Place a floor lamp in a corner to brighten up a dark area, or use one to create a cosy reading nook. With a variety of styles, colours, and materials available, you can easily find one that complements your large wall unit.

LED Lighting

LED lighting is a modern and energy-efficient option that can be used in a variety of ways to decorate your bedroom. Consider adding LED strip lights behind your large wall unit to create a soft glow and highlight its design. You can also use LED lights inside built-in shelves or cabinets to showcase your favourite items and add visual interest.

Chandeliers

If you want to make a statement, consider adding a chandelier to your bedroom. A chandelier can act as a stunning centrepiece, drawing the eye upwards and creating a sense of grandeur. It can also help to visually separate different areas of a large bedroom, such as the sleeping and seating areas.

When decorating your bedroom with a large wall unit, remember to consider the overall style and atmosphere you want to create. The lighting you choose should complement your furniture and décor while providing the necessary illumination for your space.

Frequently asked questions