If Walls Could Talk: 9 Ideas to Make Them Sing

If walls could talk, what would yours say? “I feel washed out,” or perhaps, “Floors have all the fun!” With white walls currently trending, it’s easy to see how they might feel overlooked. Though the clean look is certainly appealing—especially in a basement—don’t discount the design possibilities afforded by wall treatments. Look beyond paint color options to add a unique touch to the rooms in your newly-finished space.

Tile

You expect to see tile in the shower or on the bathroom floor, but how about tiling an entire wall in a powder bathroom? The typically smaller size of a powder bath lends itself well to an accent wall that won’t require breaking the bank to accomplish the goal. Choosing a tonal selection like the marble-look tile shown here keeps the modern aesthetic and adds interest in both the scale (12″x24″) and application (herringbone) of the tile on the wall.

Another large-format tile found in an expected place is installed here, backing the entertainment wall in this walk-out basement. Again, neutral color selection keeps changes in wall and furniture colors as an option down the road. Movement in the tile pattern provides an organic feel and interest.

In this kitchen, notice how the entire window wall tiled from counter-to-ceiling, perpendicular to the tiled stove wall, wraps the modern feel around the room. Again, as it is a very neutral tile with a greyed grout, the effect proves not overwhelming but rather, quite sophisticated.

Brick

For a warmer look, choose brick or a brick-look tile for installation on a basement wall, as did our clients who chose to recreate the Central Perk bar from the TV show Friends in their basement.

Shown here, in another basement, the brick look lends charm and character to the space.

Acoustic Tile

In a room such as a basement theater, where sound control is an important consideration, consider using large, sound-absorbing acoustical tiles as decorative items to mount on the walls.

Shiplap

Originating quite literally as the exterior planking on ships, shiplap eventually made its way indoors—though not initially as a decorative element. In homes of the early 20^th century, shiplap was installed in the home’s interior, over top of the framing, to form a smooth backing for wallpaper and other interior wall coverings. When Joanna Gaines started exposing and painting shiplap in the inaugural season of Fixer Upper in 2013, the modern farmhouse look took off and the world of interior design has never looked back.

Typically painted white, shiplap may be installed either horizontally or vertically to create a streamlined, modern look.

A ceiling application of shiplap gives a coastal vibe to the room.

Wallpaper

Another wall treatment that’s been around for centuries, wallpaper adds instant style to any space—large or small. Patterns and color palettes are virtually limitless, with many options available in peel-and-stick varieties for both ease of application and a lessening of commitment. Try adding wallpaper to just one accent wall for an interesting point of impact, as in this cozy basement sitting area.

Mirrors

Depending upon the intended end use of a room, an installation of mirrors can be both functional and enhancing to the overall design. The mirrored wall extending the entire length of this workout room serves to visually expand and brighten the space, which proves especially helpful in a basement with limited natural light.

Built-ins

If space and budget permit, lining the walls with beautiful built-in cabinetry or bookcases serves as both an aesthetic feature and as convenient storage. The shelved walls in this basement create a lovely reading nook with the feel of a private library. The abundance of shelving provides space for books as well as accessories such as photos or sculptural pieces.

Climbing Wall

For more active basement inhabitants, a climbing wall installation can be a creative way to add play space without taking up floor space. Backed with added framing to secure the climbing footholds and painted with snow-capped mountain peaks, this wall becomes a focal point for both design and entertainment.

Reclaimed Wood

Echoing chords from another era can almost be heard emanating from the beautiful walls covered in reclaimed wood in this family room. When a hailstorm damaged the exterior fiberglass siding on their home, exposing the original wood siding dating back to the early 1960’s, these homeowners opted to salvage and install it in the interior of their home. The resulting warmth and charm create a truly one-of-a-kind space.

Similar treatments could be installed using reclaimed barn wood, or—here in Colorado—Beetle-kill pine.

If you’re looking to finish a one-of-a-kind basement designed for the unique needs and style of your family, call Sheffield Homes Finished Basements & More to schedule a no-obligation in-home estimate. We’ll work within your budget and timeline to create a space you’ll love for years to come! With more than 40 years’ experience in residential home construction in the Denver metro area and in northern Colorado, we have the trade relationships and expertise to get your job done to your expectations and to our high standards. Call today:  303-420-0056.