A blank wall can make a space look so naked and unfinished. Instead of complementing your warm and inviting decor, it pulls all of the attention to the coldest part of the room. The good news is that you don’t need complete remodels and catalogues full of the most expensive art pieces to make that wow statement. Whether you’re a minimalist, an aesthete, or a bohemian, these small wall decor ideas to fill blank spaces will help you bring life to those dead spots.
1. Picture Frames or Paintings
Surely you didn’t think you were going to get through a list of small wall decor ideas without seeing the trailblazers of wall art. Picture frames add a very intimate and personal touch to your walls, while paintings portray your personality and personal taste. If you’re decorating a public space, you can fill those same picture frames with anything from quotes to postcards. Not only do these items instantly liven up a space, but they also make for great conversation starters. And the best part is that you can choose any colors and sizes to match the aesthetics of the room.
2. Macrame Pieces
The myth that macrame is only for bohemian decor styles has been debunked many years ago. Today, these textile pieces with their incredible textures and knotted patterns are hanging on walls all across the globe. Why shouldn’t your wall be one of them? Of course, you’ll get extra bragging rights if you can put together some pieces yourself, but there are many ready-made macrame pieces out there. You can also find a Pinterest sample and take it to somebody who knows what they’re doing. Whether you choose to elegantly drape the pieces over your blank canvas or use them to hold up some gorgeous green plants, this option is versatile, inexpensive, and perfect for small spaces.
3. Floating Shelves
With floating shelves, the possibilities are endless. They double as both storage and decor, and they also serve the main purpose that we’re here for. In fact, of all the small wall decor ideas to fill blank spaces, floating shelves may be the option that solves the most problems. You can display your favorite books, your most beautiful framed photos, those plants you care for so dearly, and even a candle or two. The best part (yes, it gets even better!) is that you can change your floating shelf decor seasonally. Think pumpkin spice candles and spooky figurines for Halloween, or snow globes with a little snowman and some reindeer for Christmas.
4. Sconces or String Lights
It goes without saying that any room should have some source of light. Lighting just does something to a room and it can change the entire vibe with the flip of a switch. Cool white adds a crisp and clean feeling, while warm white brings a cozy and comfortable ambiance. And if your lightbulbs come in a pretty covering, it’s a win on all fronts. The lighting you choose could either brighten up your space or bring it down to just a little too close to tacky, which is why you won’t go wrong with a neutral sconce or some string lights. And unlike some other small wall decor ideas to fill blank spaces, you won’t need to fill the entire wall to make a statement. Just a single well-placed sconce or two could make an incredible aesthetic impact.
5. Clocks
If you’re mainly into decorative furnishings that serve a purpose, you can always opt for a nice accent clock. And it doesn’t need to work to look good! Depending on your current decor theme, you can even hang a rusty or broken clock on that empty space that’s been bothering you. Then again, if sleek and modern is more your style, you won’t have any trouble finding a clock to portray that. Actually, you don’t need to stick to just one because clocks can be just as versatile as paintings and pictures. For a more artsy or eccentric look, you can mix and match some shapes and sizes. For a minimalist look, a white clock with black trimmings on an open wall works wonders.
6. Wall Planters
Do you know what’s even better than a plant? Multiple plants, of course! A bright green plant is the perfect addition to any space, regardless of the look you’re going for. Wall-mounted or floating planters are the perfect way to exhibit all of those beautiful plants that work so hard to add fresh air to your space. You can go for a leafy evergreen look in a crisp white planter or showcase some of your favorite succulents in small pots with a wood finish. You can also add some color with bright flowers. Nonetheless, every plant on your wall will tell a story, so choose them wisely.
7. Small 3D Sculptures
Art will never go out of style. The times may change, but a beautiful piece will never be ugly. That’s why small wall sculptures may be the perfect way to spruce up your naked walls. You can go for metal art, wood carvings, ceramic designs, or even your prized macaroni figurine made by your kindergartener. This is also the perfect way to showcase your souvenirs from your travels, or traditional items you bought from local tribes or cultural groups. They don’t need a lot of space, yet they create a timeless focal point that’ll need nothing but a quick dust every now and then.
8. Vinyl Decals
There are a couple of instances where vinyl decals come in handy. They’re great for rental spaces because they can be removed easily, which also makes them ideal if you like to change things up when your taste changes. They’re inexpensive, easy to install, and perfect for your next Insta-perfect DIY project. Then, there’s the added bonus of space. They don’t take up any of your living space, while changing the feel of the room. It’s a win-win. You can choose from an endless assortment of designs and if you can’t find exactly what you’re looking for, you can have it custom made.
9. Decorative Mirrors
Mirrors don’t have to be large enough for you to see your entire body or stand tall in a lonely corner in a beige room. Small mirrors are just as functional and they work great when it comes to small wall decor ideas to fill blank spaces. They bounce light around the room while adding extra depth and dimension. This makes the entire space feel bigger and brighter, which is never a bad thing. Since mirrors don’t really have a theme, you can play around with them. Get creative with the frames, from geometric to antique, or mount them as-is without a frame. You can even take it up a notch and make it personal with your own DIY mirror mosaic.
Jamie is the Founder of My Home Dwelling. He is a homeowner and enjoys sharing his homeowner tips with others. He has real estate experience working as a new home construction Realtor. Jamie has worked on numerous residential construction sites helping with interior and exterior renovations. He loves refinishing furniture, DIY home projects, and sharing his knowledge online.