The open plan kitchen dining room has become a staple in modern homes, offering a seamless flow between these two essential spaces. A feature wall in this area is a fantastic way to add visual interest and personality. This article explores 19 design ideas for open plan kitchen dining room feature walls, showcasing the latest trends and providing inspiration for your own home.
A Statement in Stone
Embrace the natural beauty and earthy tones of stone for a feature wall that exudes sophistication. In the US, trending stone choices include rustic limestone, sleek marble, and textured slate. European homes lean towards honed travertine or elegant granite. The large format tiles currently favored in both regions allow for minimal grout lines, emphasizing the stone’s natural beauty. Opt for neutral tones like cream, grey, or beige for a timeless appeal, or inject bolder personality with dramatic black or deep green. Consider adding a unique patterned stone to create a focal point, or use a combination of different textures for a layered look. To further enhance the space, incorporate metallic accents in brass or copper for a touch of warmth and elegance. This option works particularly well with modern minimalist décor and Scandinavian-inspired interiors.
Wall-Mounted Shelving
Embrace the open-plan concept with a stylish and functional wall-mounted shelving unit. This contemporary design seamlessly blends the kitchen and dining room, offering a dedicated display space for treasured dishes, decorative objects, or even a curated collection of cookbooks. Choose shelves with clean lines and minimal hardware for a modern look, or opt for rustic wooden shelves for a more traditional aesthetic. In line with current trends, consider open shelving units featuring metal accents in brass or copper for a touch of warmth and elegance. Integrate lighting within the shelves to highlight your displayed items and create a warm ambiance, especially during the evening. This feature wall can be customized to suit your individual needs and style, while also maximizing space and adding a touch of artistry to your open-plan kitchen-dining area.
The Power of Pattern
Inject personality and vibrancy into your space with a statement wallpaper featuring a bold pattern. Popular choices in the US and EU include geometric designs, floral motifs, and abstract prints. For a contemporary look, opt for graphic black and white patterns or incorporate muted tones for a sophisticated feel. Embrace the current trend of incorporating metallic accents within the pattern for a touch of luxury. To create a cohesive look, choose wallpaper colors that complement the rest of your kitchen-dining room’s color palette, such as a navy wallpaper with white accents for a classic nautical theme. Consider a textured wallpaper to add depth and visual interest, particularly in spaces with limited natural light. You can also create a unique focal point by using a bold wallpaper to frame a specific area within your open plan, such as the dining table or a designated seating area.
Painted Panoramic
Turn your feature wall into a captivating window to the world with a painted panoramic landscape. From serene seascapes to vibrant cityscapes, the choice is yours. This trend is growing in popularity as homeowners seek to bring the outdoors in and create a sense of tranquility within their living spaces. Consider a minimalist style painting with soft muted colors for a calming effect, or opt for a bold and dramatic landscape in vibrant hues for a more energizing ambiance. The choice of painting can complement your overall décor, such as a tranquil beach scene for a coastal-inspired home or a city skyline for a modern urban dwelling. Incorporating a few carefully placed accessories, such as a vase with dried flowers or a sculpture inspired by the painting’s theme, can further enhance the sense of depth and immersion. This option allows you to personalize your space with a unique and captivating artwork that becomes the focal point of your open-plan kitchen-dining room.
A Touch of Timber
Embrace the warmth and natural beauty of wood with a feature wall crafted from timber. This timeless design element adds a touch of rustic charm to any open-plan space. Popular choices in the US include reclaimed wood, adding a unique history and character to your space. European homes often feature traditional oak panels or distressed wood, adding a touch of vintage elegance. Consider incorporating a combination of different wood types for a layered effect, or use a single species for a more cohesive look. To complement the natural warmth of wood, opt for a neutral color palette for the rest of the space, such as soft creams, greys, or blues. For a modern twist, consider incorporating metal accents such as black iron hardware or copper lighting fixtures. This feature wall can be used to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, perfect for both casual gatherings and formal dinners.
A Playful Tile Mosaic
Embrace the playful side of design with a mosaic tile feature wall. This bold and vibrant option offers a unique opportunity to add personality to your open-plan kitchen-dining room. In the US, geometric and abstract patterns are trending, while in the EU, classic Moroccan or traditional Spanish designs remain popular. Experiment with vibrant colors like turquoise, emerald green, or fiery orange for a bold statement. To add a touch of sophistication, incorporate metallic tiles in gold, silver, or copper. When choosing a mosaic, consider its size and scale to complement the overall space. Small-scale mosaics can add texture and visual interest, while larger tiles can create a more dramatic focal point. A mosaic tile feature wall can be used to define a specific area within your open-plan layout, such as the dining space, or to create a visually engaging backdrop for a statement piece of furniture.
A Gallery of Memories
Transform your feature wall into a cherished gallery of memories with a collection of framed photographs, artwork, or even vintage maps. This personalized and sentimental approach adds a touch of warmth and character to your open-plan kitchen-dining room. In the US, minimalist black and white frames are favored, while European homes often feature more ornate gold or silver frames for a classic look. Arrange your chosen items in a curated display, using different sizes and frames for a balanced and visually pleasing effect. You can also incorporate a theme, such as a collection of travel photographs or a series of abstract prints. To enhance the display, consider adding a few accent pieces such as a vase with fresh flowers or a small sculpture. This feature wall becomes a personal reflection of your life and interests, making it a conversation starter for guests and a source of joy for you.
A Touch of Metallic
Elevate your open-plan space with a feature wall adorned with metallic accents. This contemporary design trend adds a touch of sophistication and glamour to any kitchen-dining area. In the US, brushed nickel and stainless steel are popular choices for a sleek and modern look, while in the EU, brass and copper are often preferred for their warm tones and vintage appeal. Incorporate metallic accents through various elements, including wallpaper with metallic accents, tiles with a metallic finish, or even a single wall painted in a metallic hue. To complement the metallic accents, opt for a neutral color palette for the rest of the space, such as white, grey, or beige. This option creates a sophisticated and elegant ambiance, perfect for both casual and formal gatherings.
A Textured Tapestry
Add depth and visual interest to your open-plan space with a feature wall featuring textured wallpaper. This trendy design element adds dimension and tactile appeal to any room. In the US, geometric and abstract patterns are favored, while European homes often lean towards traditional damask or floral motifs. Choose a wallpaper with a textured finish, such as embossed, linen, or woven, for a tactile and inviting feel. Opt for neutral tones like cream, grey, or beige for a timeless appeal, or add a touch of personality with a bolder color like emerald green or deep navy. Consider incorporating metallic accents within the textured wallpaper for a touch of luxury and sophistication. This option creates a sense of warmth and elegance, perfect for both casual and formal settings.
An Accent Wall of Color
Embrace the power of color with a feature wall painted in a bold and vibrant hue. This classic design technique instantly adds personality and energy to your open-plan kitchen-dining room. Popular color choices in the US include deep blues, warm greens, and sunny yellows. European homes often opt for more subdued tones like terracotta, olive green, or charcoal grey. To complement the color choice, consider using a neutral palette for the rest of the space, such as white, cream, or grey. Consider incorporating a contrasting accent color in your furniture or accessories to further enhance the visual impact. This simple yet effective design solution can transform the ambiance of your space, making it feel more inviting and personal.
A Chalkboard Moment
Embrace practicality and creativity with a chalkboard feature wall. This versatile design option allows you to showcase your culinary skills, display inspirational quotes, or create a fun and interactive space for family and friends. Chalkboard paint is readily available in both the US and EU, making this a budget-friendly DIY project. Consider using chalkboard paint in a contrasting color, such as black against white walls or dark grey against a lighter background. For a more refined look, consider using chalkboard paint on a framed panel or even a large-format piece of slate. This feature wall provides a unique and personalized touch to your open-plan kitchen-dining room, encouraging creativity and spontaneous expression.
A Slice of History
Embrace the charm of vintage brick with a feature wall constructed from reclaimed bricks. This rustic and industrial-inspired design adds warmth and character to any open-plan space. In the US, reclaimed brick is often used in a rustic and casual setting, while in the EU, it’s often incorporated into a more refined and industrial aesthetic. Consider using a combination of different brick types, such as exposed red brick and reclaimed white brick, for a layered look. To enhance the rustic charm, leave the mortar exposed and consider using a sealant to protect the bricks from stains. This feature wall can be used to create a focal point in your kitchen-dining area, offering a unique and historical element to your space.
A Tropical Retreat
Bring the tropics into your home with a feature wall adorned with vibrant tropical wallpaper or a mural. This exotic and playful design option adds a touch of whimsy and warmth to your open-plan kitchen-dining room. Popular choices in the US and EU include large-scale palm leaf prints, lush jungle scenes, or vibrant tropical bird motifs. To complement the tropical theme, incorporate natural materials such as bamboo or rattan into your furniture or décor. This feature wall creates a sense of escapism and tranquility, offering a vibrant and playful touch to your space.
A Mirror, Mirror
Enlarge and brighten your open-plan kitchen-dining room with a feature wall incorporating a large statement mirror. This design trend reflects light and creates the illusion of more space, making it ideal for smaller kitchens or dining areas. In the US, minimalist rectangular mirrors are often favored, while in the EU, ornate or vintage-inspired mirrors are more popular. To create a cohesive look, choose a mirror that complements the overall style of your space. For a modern aesthetic, opt for a sleek rectangular mirror with a thin frame. For a more traditional look, consider a decorative mirror with a carved wooden frame or an antique-style mirror with an elaborate design. This feature wall acts as a focal point and adds depth and dimension to your open-plan layout.
A Tapestry of Textures
Embrace a playful and eclectic approach with a feature wall featuring a combination of textures and materials. This unique design option allows for a layered and dynamic look, offering endless possibilities for creativity. In the US, a mix of wood paneling, painted brick, and reclaimed wood is often seen, while in the EU, a combination of stone tiles, vintage wallpaper, and exposed brick is often favored. Mix and match different textures and materials to create a visually stimulating and tactile experience. For a more cohesive look, choose a color palette that complements the different textures and materials. This feature wall creates a sense of visual excitement and personality, adding a unique touch to your open-plan kitchen-dining room.