Hanging mirrors on a wall helps illuminate the space.
Techniques for decorating a long interior wall depend on the
wall's function. A narrow hallway can feel claustrophobic or
underdesigned, and decorations can solve either problem. The wall of an
open-plan great room can guide the eye through the transition from one
living space to another, provide storage or showcase your taste. When
you set out to decorate a long wall, know what effect you want to create
or what problem you want to solve. It will help you whittle down the
wealth of options a large expanse of wall provides.
Hang
light-colored wallpaper with a quiet or subtle pattern in a narrow
hallway. Narrow spaces become overwhelming when you decorate them too
extensively, so keep it simple. At about eye level, install two or three
wall pouches containing dried flowers or short willow branches along
the wall to add interest.
2
Install
a chair rail or wainscoting in a wider hallway or on a wall in a great
room. Above the molding, hang sconce lights at regular intervals. Choose
light fixtures in the same color family as the wainscoting or chair
rail so they coordinate. Hang fine artwork between the sconces if
desired to heighten the formality.
3
Attach
wooden planks from floor to ceiling at regular intervals along a
hallway to create a rustic effect. Paint the walls between the planks in
a textured or distressed white.
4
Separate
a great room into usable living spaces by hanging different types of
decor on the wall in the different areas. For example, hang clusters of
family photographs in the living space, paneled wall art in the dining
area and mirrors to bring extra light into the kitchen.
5
Build
shelves into a long wall for extra storage, then use them to display
accessories, books or kitchen supplies, depending on what room the wall
borders. Combining form and function like this turns a long wall into
usable space.
