Paint and Wallpaper

• Use paint or wallpaper to make a focus wall pop, adding visual interest to the space. For example, if there is a paint color or wallpaper that you love but you fear is too busy, too bold or may close in the space if used in the entire room, showcase it on a focus wall. For instance, if you are decorating a small room and want to use a dark jewel-tone color, paint a single focus wall in the color; or if you love wallpaper that features a busy paisley design, hang it on a single wall in the space to add interest to the room.
  
  

Architectural Items

• Instead of using paint or wallpaper to make a statement on a focus wall, use architectural materials, such as slate, river rocks, reclaimed wood beams or wainscoting. Typically used to cover all of the walls in a room, these elements can close in the space and give it a cold, impersonal feeling, but displayed on a single focus wall, these materials can give a room a welcoming, rustic appeal.
  
  

Collections

• Create a focus wall that showcases a collection of treasured items. Hang shelves on the wall in a decorative arrangement, such as an off-set column. Display items on the shelves that have special meaning to you: souvenirs from faraway places, framed pictures of loved ones, family heirlooms or mementos from special events. You can also display the items directly on the walls themselves. For example, if you have a collection of decorative baskets that you want to display, hang them in a decorative arrangement directly on the wall or hang photographs in frames on the wall between the shelves.
  
  

Single Items

• A focus wall doesn't have to be a display of bold colors and materials or a collection of items; you can make a strong visual impact with a single item. A large photograph or painting hung in a frame that complements the style of the space makes a visually-strikiing display. Other single options to consider include a decoratively framed mirror or a keepsake item, such as a handwoven blanket or carving.