Accent walls are nothing new, but they’re popping up in imaginative places all the time. Some would say the pop-of-color feature has gone out of vogue in recent years, but the latest (and quite unexpected) location for a feature wall has us running to get one installed. Spotlighting the shower, feature walls can now be found in bathrooms—and they might just be one of this season’s in-demand renovations.
Bathrooms are one of the main locations that prove to sell homes more quickly, so it makes sense that homeowners everywhere want to make a splash with this interior design detail. A feature wall allows you to up the value and aesthetic appeal of one of the home’s smallest rooms, without the expense of renovating your entire bathroom with a pricey marble tile.
Ultimately, the shower feature wall means much more bang for your buck. Plus, this simple trick allows you to choose a bright color or bold pattern that shows off your personality without the inconvenience of overwhelming the entire room—a chance encounter when it comes to bathroom design.
This bathroom redesign trend is a fabulous and budget-savvy way to add a unique feature to your home. But does that mean it’s right for you? We spoke to an interior design expert to get the intel on what makes for a great feature wall. Plus, we sourced ways you can implement it in any home, even if it’s a rental! If this trend intrigues you, read on for ways to make it your own.
Why Are Shower Feature Walls Becoming So Popular?
Much like a statement ceiling, a statement wall can transform a space without need for a major renovation—thereby saving time and money when it comes to design updates. This trend does the trick for homeowners looking for a unique upgrade (or a way to flaunt their personal style) without committing to the hassle of redoing an entire bathroom.
“A shower feature wall is one wall of the shower that has a statement tile and attracts the eye,” says Bethany Adams of Bethany Adams Interiors. “The tile doesn’t even necessarily have to be loud and colorful—anything with major impact, such as bold geometrics, or interesting grout colors will do the trick.”
In the interior design world, there’s currently an emphasis on creating a home that reflects the people living in it—even if that means stepping away from conventional design choices. Maximalism is also trending, and the shower feature wall gives a nod to both of these trends with its playful pops of color and texture.
How to Try a Shower Feature Wall at Home
One of the great things about this trend is that, due to its inherent flexibility and wide variety of style options, it works in just about any home.
“While it’s particularly good for a more modern home design, there’s really no home style that couldn’t do a feature wall, as long as the materials are appropriate for your home’s architecture and time period,” says Adams.
In a historic home, you might want to opt for a beautiful subway tile or chic travertine, while in a modern home, materials like a bold, deeply veined marble or a contemporary twist with wild colors can create an updated look.
You can also easily push the boundaries of what makes a statement wall, making it frame a freestanding bathtub or shower if that’s more your jam. And you don’t have to take the trend too literally—if your tub is in an alcove, don’t be afraid to tile the whole thing! It’s another excellent opportunity to add a small yet high-impact touch of elevated design flair.
If you’re renting—or just unsure if this look is for you—there are still ways that you can try out this trend while using less permanent applications. While tile is likely out of the question, some landlords will be willing to let you paint a wall in your bathroom (though check with them first, and be ready to offer to repaint it!).
Additionally, peel-and-stick wallpaper offers a dramatic yet temporary look. If you really don’t want anything with a commitment, hanging oversized art over your tub could also give your bathroom a refresh without regrets if you decide crisp, white walls are more your style down the road.
At the end of the day, there’s no wrong way to create a feature wall in your bathroom—just have fun and let your personality shine!