Software
Houzz Logo Print
quaker8

Help with a blank wall in my living room

last year

I live in a narrow townhome (~15 feet wide) with a combination living / dining room. The decor in the room is pretty much set the way I want it with the exception of one wall (on the left side of the top picture below). This wall is sort of a blank canvas - and I'm trying to decide between:

1) Leaving it blank to keep the room from feeling cluttered.

2) Adding a narrow console table with some sort of art above it that fills the space without overwhelming the rest of the room. If you have a suggestion for a narrow console table - please feel free to mention!


For perspective, the property is located in FL - so targeting ideas that are consistent with a home in a costal setting. Thanks in advance!


Now for pictures: The area I'm struggling with is directly to the right of the two pictures / hanging light and the left of the fireplace.


Here's a picture facing the wall in question:


Another angle:


This is the other side of the room (it's a mirrored wall):


Comments (26)

  • last year

    have you ever tried the sectional along the inside/solid wall?

    I'd put the dining table in front of the mirrored wall.

    quaker8 thanked Lyn Nielson
  • last year

    When I had a condo with a long wall like that, I added a decorative folding screen along that wall. Because whatever you do there will be reflected in the mirror opposite, it will almost be like you are doing the same thing on both walls, so I wouldn't want something too dark or too busy.

    quaker8 thanked Fun2BHere
  • last year

    Thanks re moving the sectional. I’ve contemplated but cant’t move the table given the placement of the light.


    A screen could be interating - but agreed can’t be too busy.


    Thanks!

  • last year

    Thats something I’m definitely considering.

  • last year

    Thanks!

  • PRO
    last year
    last modified: last year

    I move your framed prints to the left centered on the chandelier.

    Add a large canvas to the wall

    I have replaced your close with one that has more presence.. I have darkened the tile around the FP because the white just doesn't look quite right.


    Consider mounting items directly on top of the mirrored wall.






    quaker8 thanked BeverlyFLADeziner
  • last year

    Really appreciate! The large canvas is another solution!

  • last year

    Rather than adding another framed rectangle, move the clock to that wall for a different shape and material. I would put a table under it. I'd find something unique for over the fireplace that brings in the blue and is interesting to look at since it's the focal point. No one is going to give the clock more than a glance so it can be moved to a secondary spot where it can still be seen from the sofa.

    quaker8 thanked Eileen
  • last year

    I've thought about that - some sort of big starbust art over a console table could really add some variety to that wall?

  • last year

    Two starburst shapes?

    quaker8 thanked Eileen
  • last year

    it's tough - really like the idea of some sort of different shape over the area.


    agreed that additional rectangles could look boring against the wall with two pictures there already.

  • last year

    I'd put a tall bookcase or 2 on that wall. Something modern and interesting, more open to keep it less busy.



  • last year

    Or a tall fabric wall hanging can add texture and warmth.

  • last year

    Agree with Annie. It could be a bookshelf or a plant stand or a large plant. I do like the size and shape of the one Annie posted above.

  • PRO
  • last year

    Book shelf accesories are another way to bring in more blue since your color palette is so neutral.

  • last year

    Use warm colored wood frames and gold frames and find paintings and prints you like - even at thrift stores or ebay there are nice ones. Florals are nice. Get rid of the black dinette set and black ottoman and go with a warm wood dinette set and a wood coffee table or fabric ottoman to match sofa. Stay with warm tones and avoid grey & black.


    With the warm brown wood floors, use all warm tones of all pieces. A warm natural wood bookcase or glass cabinet or something would look good. Remove the black star over the fireplace and find a nice painting with wood frame, or gold painted wood frame. The light over the table is too modern and a more traditional light would be nicer - brass would be nice. Warm up the room with drapes in a nice natural fabric like brown linen or cotton.


    Try to avoid anything too trendy as it will look outdated in a year or so (the way black and grey has been looking outdated from the beginning and is finally going out as of a couple years ago). Use things you like and take your time.

  • last year

    The ceiling looks like popcorn - scrape it and you will be surprised at home much that helps the room. Use "ceiling paint". Spray water with a gallon spray tank and scrape into a bucket lined with a trash bag - very easy and makes a big difference.


    Try to avoid polyester fabrics (and no toxic stain-resistant spray) for your health. Avoid fiberboard/particle board - use solid wood. That kind of thing goes a long way for a house that does not have cancer-causing chemicals. Personally I have NO upholstered furniture and only 100% cotton covers on my daybed/sofa organic latex cushions.

  • last year

    I agree with those suggesting shelving or tall piece of furniture between the wall Decor and the fireplace. This defines the lounge from the dining area and breaks up the long wall. The idea of art over the more wall is also a good suggestion.

  • last year

    If moving the couch isn't an option to eliminate that 'S' path around the couch, agree with another either move the clock to that wall, or hang a large decorative mirror to reflect light on that side of the room and give it a sense of expansion. Since the couch is so large I'd be hesitant to put even a shallow piece of furniture in that space, since it's the primary path around the couch and to the sliding door. Adding a simple tall plant in the left corner of the fireplace would keep it from looking empty without inhibiting walking space. A driftwood or reclaimed wood mantel shelf would look stunning, and replacing the clock with a large colorful picture would also bring some balance to that side of the room. Love the idea of hanging pics on the mirrored wall to break it up. A fun space to work with!

  • last year

    what about a tall green plant?


  • last year
    last modified: last year

    The S path is a good comment. One way to mitigate that & give yourself more room would be to add a banquette to the corner (on the dyptich & pass through walls). Perfectly in keeping with a costal vibe. (Painting(s) hung over the miorrors would be fabulous - but not in this casual home.

    And beause your minimalist design is appropriate for the space I wouldnt use any bookcase or large item opposite the sectional - a narrow console table is really all you need. (But I sure admire you for not putting a TV in there!)


    A full height tile fireplace surround would also be a lovely focal point.




  • PRO
    last year

    A blank wall can feel a little overwhelming at first, but it’s really one of the best opportunities to bring personality and balance into your living room. The trick is to think of the wall as part of your overall design story rather than something you just need to “fill.”


    If you like clean and minimal, one oversized piece, like a bold piece of art, a large mirror, or even a sculptural wall hanging, can become the focal point without making the room feel cluttered. For something more layered and personal, a gallery wall works beautifully. Mix framed art, family photos, or even prints you love, and play with different sizes while keeping one common thread (like similar frame colors) to tie it together.


    Floating shelves are also a great middle ground between form and function. You can style them with books, plants, candles, or little collected objects that make the space feel more “you.” If you want to go beyond décor, consider changing the surface of the wall itself, an accent paint color, textured wallpaper, wood slats, or even 3D panels can completely transform the room’s vibe.


    And don’t forget lighting. Wall sconces, picture lights, or even a floor lamp angled toward the wall can highlight whatever you choose and make the room feel more inviting. Mirrors are another favorite, they open up the space, reflect light, and make the whole room feel bigger.


    And don’t forget lighting. Wall sconces, picture lights, or even a floor lamp angled toward the wall can highlight whatever you choose and make the room feel more inviting. Mirrors are another favorite, they open up the space, reflect light, and make the whole room feel bigger.

  • last year

    In 2025, less is more! I have moved to watching movies and fun comedy routines directly on my wall by using a projector. Many of the projectors now come with speakers so you can use the sound right from the projector. If it's mostly just you, go ahead and block that area directly in front of the blank space and build a high perch for the projector (these projectors are about $160) and you can lay on the one section of the sectional. It's a fantastic experience! It's like being at the drive-in in your own living room. During the day (daylight) just leave it blank. No need to put stuff everywhere. Give it a try!

  • PRO
    2 months ago

    Yes, can you post a photo of what you did?