Discover how a simple wood feature wall can completely transform a modern living room. See the stunning before-and-after photos and get inspired for your own home renovation project.
Introduction to Our Wood Accent Wall Project
From Outdated to Modern Elegance: A Living Room Transformation
There’s nothing quite like watching a space completely reinvent itself. Our recent living room makeover was a total transformation. What used to be a cozy but outdated space with a wood-burning stove is now a modern farmhouse dream. The centerpiece? A stunning wood accent wall with an electric fireplace. We wanted to blend the warmth of farmhouse style with the clean lines of contemporary design.
The focal point of the renovation became the creation of a striking wood accent wall, meticulously crafted to bring warmth and texture to the room. Reclaimed wood planks were artfully arranged to create a visually stunning backdrop for the new electric fireplace. The wood’s natural grain and imperfections added character and depth, perfectly complementing the desired farmhouse aesthetic.
Before Photos
The living room in its original state was a mess. One of the most noticeable features was the old, moldy carpeting, creating a health hazard and detracting from the room’s overall aesthetic. Another eyesore was the potbelly fireplace, a relic of the past that was both inefficient and visually outdated.
To add to the challenges, the room’s configuration was somewhat unusual, with a low ceiling and a cramped layout. It all needed to go!
Planning and Design: A Modern Farmhouse Vision
The decision to create a wood feature wall was driven by the desire to add a focal point to the room while maintaining a warm, inviting atmosphere. Wood is a natural material that complements the farmhouse aesthetic, and a feature wall would be a visually striking element that could dramatically transform the space.
The design concept for the living room was organic modern. This style combines the natural elements of rustic design with the clean lines and functionality of modern aesthetics. The goal was to create a usable living space that was both stylish and comfortable.
A key feature of the modern feature wall was that it incorporated both a TV and an electric fireplace. This allowed for a streamlined and clutter-free look while providing entertainment and warmth. The wall also featured built-in hidden cabinet storage to keep the space organized and uncluttered.
To achieve the desired aesthetic, reclaimed wood was used for the feature wall. This material added a touch of history and character to the room while also being environmentally friendly. An electric fireplace was chosen for its efficiency, safety, and modern appearance. It complemented the wood feature wall and provided a cozy focal point.
Pro tip: The decision to opt for an electric fireplace was both practical and aesthetic. Not only does it provide the cozy ambiance of a traditional fireplace, but it also eliminates the hassle of maintenance and health hazards associated with a wood-burning stove. With just the flick of a switch, the room is instantly transformed into a warm and inviting haven. (This 60″ electric fireplace was $399 with free delivery to the Kona Lowe’s store.)
The Transformation: A Dramatic Wood Accent Wall Makeover
The renovation process involved a complete overhaul of the living room. The first step was to remove the old carpeting and replace it with luxury vinyl planking (LVP) to create a more modern and durable surface. The potbelly fireplace was demolished and replaced with the modern feature wall, which was constructed using reclaimed wood and incorporated the electric fireplace and TV.
One of the biggest challenges encountered during the renovation was the need to carefully plan the layout of the feature wall to ensure that the TV and fireplace were positioned correctly. We also had to consider the electrical wiring for the electric fireplace and TV.
Despite these challenges, the renovation was a resounding success. The before-and-after photos clearly illustrate the dramatic transformation of the living room. The once outdated and cramped space has been transformed into a modern, inviting, and functional room that perfectly reflects the organic modern design concept that we wanted!
Tips and Inspiration: Creating Your Own Wood Feature Wall
If you’re considering a similar project, here are some practical tips:
- Choose the right wood type: Consider factors such as durability, appearance, and cost. Popular choices include oak, walnut, and pine.
- Select the appropriate finish: The finish will affect the overall look and feel of the wood. Options include stain, paint, or natural finishes.
- Plan for storage: If you plan to incorporate storage into your feature wall, consider the type of storage and the amount of space needed.
- Consider lighting: Proper lighting can enhance the beauty of a wood feature wall. Experiment with different lighting options to find the best fit.
Inspiration for different design styles:
- Modern: Pair a wood feature wall with clean lines, minimalist furniture, and neutral colors.
- Bohemian: Combine a wood feature wall with textured fabrics, patterned rugs, and eclectic accessories.
- Scandinavian: Create a cozy and inviting space with a wood-feature wall, light-colored furniture, and natural elements.
For more great wood feature wall design ideas and tips, check out our blog Stunning Wood Feature Wall with Shelving Idea.
Conclusion: The Power of a Wood Feature Wall
A wood feature wall can be a transformative element in any living room. It adds warmth, character, and visual interest while also providing a functional space for entertainment and relaxation. By following these tips and drawing inspiration from different design styles, you can create a stunning and personalized feature wall that will be the centerpiece of your home.
We encourage you to share your own experiences with wood feature walls and ask any questions you may have. We’d love to hear from you!
This post is part of our modern farmhouse home renovation blog series about the before-and-after transformation of our home, “Hale o Ka’ala,” in Waimea, Hawai’i Island. As always, mahalo for joining us on this eco-friendly and budget-friendly home renovation adventure! Be sure to check out all of our Home Renovation Blogs!
Wood Feature Wall Resources:
General Woodworking and DIY Resources:
Reclaimed Wood:
Hawaii-Specific Resources:
- ReStore Hawai’i for discounted building supplies
- ReUse Hawai’i for discounted lumber and reclaimed wood
- Hawaii Home Magazine
Design Inspiration: