18 Beautiful Large Empty Wall Ideas for Your Living Room

A large empty wall in your living room can feel like a missed opportunity. Instead of leaving it blank, you can use it to enhance the overall look and feel of your space. Whether you want something stylish, functional, or a mix of both, there are plenty of ways to fill a large wall without making it feel cluttered. Here are 18 ideas to help you make the most of your living room's empty walls.

1. Oversized Artwork

empty wall ideas oversized artwork

A large piece of art makes a statement and adds personality to your space. Whether it's an abstract painting, a framed photograph, or a modern print, one oversized piece can create a focal point. Choose colors that complement your living room's decor for a cohesive look.

2. Gallery Wall

empty wall ideas gallery wall

Instead of one large piece, fill the space with a collection of smaller framed artwork or photos. Use matching frames for a clean, uniform look, or mix different styles for a more eclectic feel. Arrange them in a symmetrical grid or a free-form layout, depending on your style.

3. Decorative Mirrors

empty wall ideas decorative mirror

Mirrors reflect light, making a space feel brighter and larger. A single oversized mirror can serve as a focal point, or you can arrange multiple smaller mirrors for a more decorative touch. Try round, oval, or uniquely shaped mirrors to add character.

4. Floating Shelves

empty wall ideas floating shelves

Install floating shelves to add both function and style. Use them to display books, plants, framed photos, and decorative objects. Shelves allow you to change up your decor easily without making permanent changes to your wall.

5. Wall Paneling

empty wall ideas wall paneling

Adding paneling is a great way to bring texture and dimension to an empty wall. Options like shiplap, wainscoting, or board-and-batten add a refined look to your living room. Paint the paneling in a contrasting color to make it stand out.

6. Statement Wallpaper

empty wall ideas statement wallpaper

Wallpaper is an effective way to add pattern and color to a large wall. Choose from bold prints, subtle textures, or classic patterns like stripes or florals. Peel-and-stick wallpaper is a great option if you want something temporary.

7. Large Wall Clock

empty wall ideas wall clock

An oversized wall clock is both decorative and functional. Choose a minimalist design for a modern look or a vintage-inspired clock for a more traditional feel. A large clock can serve as a statement piece without overwhelming the space.

8. Built-In Shelving

empty wall ideas built in shelving

If you have the space and budget, built-in shelving adds storage and a custom look to your living room. Use it to store books, display collectibles, or showcase decorative pieces. This option works especially well in living rooms with high ceilings.

9. Hanging Plants

empty wall ideas hanging plants

Greenery adds life to an empty wall. Install wall-mounted planters, floating shelves, or hanging baskets to display trailing plants like pothos or ferns. This not only enhances your decor but also improves air quality.

10. Console Table with Decor

empty wall ideas console table with decor

A console table against a large empty wall can add both function and style to your living room. Choose a sleek, modern design or a rustic wooden table, depending on your decor style. Decorate it with vases, books, framed photos, and decorative trays to create a well-balanced and inviting space.

11. Tapestries or Textiles

empty wall ideas tapestries or textiles

A large fabric piece adds warmth and texture to your living room. Choose a woven tapestry, a macrame wall hanging, or a patterned rug hung on the wall. This is an easy way to bring color and pattern into your space.

12. Light Fixtures

empty wall ideas light fixtures

Wall sconces, picture lights, or a series of hanging pendant lights can make a large wall feel more intentional. Lighting adds warmth and highlights other decor elements, making the space feel cozier.

13. Wooden Wall Art

empty wall ideas wooden wall art

Wood panels, carved pieces, or reclaimed wood planks bring natural texture to a blank wall. Whether you opt for a geometric design, a large wooden frame, or a rustic touch, wood adds warmth to the space.

14. Leaning Ladder Shelf

empty wall ideas leaning ladder shelf

A leaning shelf adds dimension and provides extra storage without needing to mount anything. Use it to hold books, baskets, or decorative pieces. This works well in corners or along an entire empty wall.

15. Oversized Typography or Quotes

empty wall ideas typography or quotes

Large lettered prints, metal typography, or wooden signs with meaningful words can add personality to your living room. Choose a simple phrase or your favorite quote in a stylish font to complement your decor.

16. Wall-Mounted TV with Decor

empty wall ideas wall mounted tv

If your large wall houses a TV, surround it with decor to make it look intentional. Use a media console, floating shelves, or built-in cabinets to balance the space. Framing the TV with artwork or decor makes it feel like part of the design.

17. Sculptural Wall Decor

empty wall ideas sculptural wall decor

Three-dimensional wall art, metal sculptures, or ceramic pieces can create an interesting focal point. Instead of flat artwork, opt for something with texture and depth to add dimension to your living room.

DecorSmart Love Family Tree Wall Decor Picture Frame Collage Removable 3D DIY Wood Wall Stickers for Living Room with Red Heart and Quote Family Like Branches on a Tree
  • Made of natural solid wood - Paulownia. Please beware of inferior mdf or plywood, which tend to release formaldehyde and voc, especially when they vaguely say it's made of wood
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  • Cutting letters, more permanent than Printing that Tends to Fade
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  • Peel & stick to assemble with stencil, like a 132 pieces simple jigsaw puzzle

18. Combination Approach

empty wall ideas combination approach

For an extra-large wall, mix and match multiple ideas. Combine floating shelves with framed art, or place a mirror alongside a hanging plant display. Layering different elements creates a dynamic and visually appealing space.

Tips for Decorating Large Walls

  • Consider Scale: Choose decor that fits the wall's size. Small items can get lost, while oversized pieces make a stronger impact.
  • Stick to a Theme: Keep your decor consistent with your living room's style to create a cohesive look.
  • Use a Balanced Layout: Whether symmetrical or asymmetrical, make sure the arrangement feels balanced.
  • Incorporate Texture: Mixing materials like wood, fabric, and metal adds interest and depth.
  • Leave Some Space: Avoid overcrowding. Empty space helps decor stand out and keeps the room from feeling cluttered.

Placement and Proportion Guide

Choosing the right size and placement for wall decor makes a big difference in how your living room looks. Here are some general guidelines:

  • Artwork & Frames: The center of a large piece should be at eye level, around 57–60 inches from the floor. If placing above a sofa, leave at least 6–8 inches of space between the sofa and the artwork.
  • Gallery Walls: Keep at least 2–3 inches of spacing between frames for a balanced look.
  • Mirrors: A large mirror should be positioned where it reflects light or a visually appealing part of the room.
  • Shelving: Floating shelves should be evenly spaced, typically 12–15 inches apart, depending on the look you want.
  • Console Table Decor: If using a console table, the decor on top should be proportionate—nothing too small that it looks lost, and nothing so large that it overwhelms the table.

Mistakes to Avoid

Decorating a large wall comes with common pitfalls. Here's what to watch out for:

  • Choosing decor that's too small: A tiny frame in the middle of a huge wall makes the space look awkward. Scale your decor to match the wall's size.
  • Overcrowding the wall: Too many pieces crammed together can make the space feel cluttered and chaotic.
  • Ignoring balance: If one side of the room is heavily decorated while the other remains bare, the space can feel lopsided.
  • Not considering color coordination: A mix of too many colors or patterns without a theme can make the wall look unorganized.
  • Skipping functionality: If storage is an issue, consider shelving or a console table instead of just decorative elements.

Color Coordination Tips

A large wall should complement the rest of your living room's color scheme. Here's how to do it:

  • Stick to a palette: Choose decor in colors that already exist in your living room for a cohesive look.
  • Use contrast wisely: A dark accent against a light wall or a bright piece in a neutral room can create a striking effect.
  • Consider undertones: Warm-toned walls pair best with warm decor (wood, earthy hues), while cool-toned walls work well with sleek, modern pieces (metal, glass).
  • Add depth with textures: If using neutral tones, layer different materials like wood, fabric, or metal to keep the space visually interesting.

FAQ

What is the best way to fill a large empty wall in a living room?

Oversized art, gallery walls, floating shelves, and wall paneling are some of the best ways to fill a large wall. The best option depends on your personal style and the look you want to achieve.

How can I make my large living room wall look cozy?

Adding warm textures like wood paneling, fabric wall hangings, or layered lighting can make a large wall feel more inviting. Plants and warm-toned decor also help create a cozy atmosphere.

What if I have a rental and can't drill holes?

Peel-and-stick wallpaper, leaning mirrors, and removable adhesive hooks for lightweight decor are good options for renters. You can also use freestanding bookshelves or floor lamps to fill the space without mounting anything.

How do I choose the right wall decor for my space?

Consider your room's existing color scheme, furniture style, and overall vibe. If your living room is modern, go for sleek art or minimalist shelving. If it's more traditional, framed prints or wall paneling might work better.

A large empty wall is an opportunity to enhance your home decor and make your living room feel complete. Whether you prefer a bold statement or a subtle touch, there are endless ways to fill the space while keeping your decor stylish and functional.

If you're looking for more ways to style a large wall with a functional and cozy touch, check out these 15 Best Fireplace TV Wall Ideas for Your Living Room.

For a comprehensive collection of living room wall decor ideas, you might find this resource helpful: 45 Living Room Wall Decor Ideas From Designers.​

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