Living Room Wall Decor Trends 2018

2018 saw a shift in living room wall decor, moving away from the minimalist trends of previous years and embracing more personality and texture. This year emphasized creating a curated and layered look, reflecting individual style and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.

One prominent trend was the resurgence of maximalism. Large-scale gallery walls, featuring a mix of framed prints, photographs, and even small decorative objects, gained popularity. These displays moved beyond simple grids and embraced asymmetry and varied frame sizes, adding a dynamic and collected feel to the living room.

Botanical prints and elements also flourished in 2018. From oversized framed botanical illustrations to wallpaper featuring lush tropical foliage, nature-inspired decor brought a sense of tranquility and life to living spaces. This trend reflected a broader societal focus on bringing the outdoors in and creating a connection with nature.

Textured wall coverings played a significant role in 2018 living room aesthetics. Grasscloth wallpaper, with its natural fibers and subtle texture, added warmth and depth to walls. This trend extended beyond wallpaper to include textured paint finishes, such as Venetian plaster, which provided a sophisticated and tactile element.

Geometric patterns emerged as a popular choice for adding visual interest. Wallpaper featuring geometric designs, from bold and colorful to subtle and monochromatic, provided a modern and stylish touch. Geometric patterns were also incorporated through wall hangings, mirrors, and decorative accents.

Metallic accents continued to be a favored design element. Brass, copper, and gold finishes added a touch of glamour and sophistication to living rooms. These metallics were incorporated through lighting fixtures, mirrors, decorative objects, and even furniture hardware.

Large-scale art pieces became a focal point in many living rooms. Oversized paintings, photographs, or even tapestries commanded attention and served as a statement piece. This trend emphasized choosing art that resonated with personal style and added a unique touch to the space.

The use of mirrors expanded beyond their functional purpose. Decorative mirrors, in various shapes and sizes, were used to create the illusion of more space and reflect light, brightening the living room. Mirrors framed with unique materials like wood or metal added an artistic element.

Open shelving remained a popular choice for displaying decorative objects and personal collections. These shelves provided an opportunity to showcase books, plants, artwork, and other treasured items, adding personality and visual interest to the wall space.

Macrame wall hangings added a bohemian touch to living rooms. These handcrafted pieces, featuring intricate knotting patterns, provided texture and a sense of warmth. Macrame wall hangings often incorporated natural materials like cotton or jute, complementing the natural and organic design trends of the year.

The use of bold color was a defining feature of 2018 wall decor. Deep jewel tones, such as emerald green, sapphire blue, and ruby red, created a rich and luxurious atmosphere. Accent walls painted in these bold colors provided a dramatic backdrop for other decorative elements.

Vintage and antique pieces gained popularity as a way to add character and history to living rooms. Vintage mirrors, framed artwork, and decorative objects brought a sense of nostalgia and uniqueness to the space. These pieces often served as conversation starters and reflected individual style.

Three-dimensional wall art emerged as a way to add texture and depth. Sculptural wall pieces, decorative tiles, and even repurposed architectural elements created a dynamic and visually interesting focal point. This trend moved beyond flat artwork and embraced tactile and dimensional elements.

The focus on personalization was a key element of 2018 living room wall decor trends. The emphasis was on creating a space that reflected individual tastes and interests, rather than adhering to strict design rules. This allowed for a more eclectic and curated look, resulting in a living room that felt truly unique and personal.

The influence of global design was evident in many living room wall decor choices. Textiles, patterns, and decorative objects inspired by different cultures brought a sense of worldly charm and eclecticism to the space. This trend reflected a growing appreciation for diverse cultures and aesthetics.