Brilliant Ways To Use Flooring On Your Walls As An Alternative To Paint

It can be difficult to decide how to make the most of your empty walls. Sometimes wall art simply doesn't pack enough of a punch. You can also add stunning texture to your home with an easy paint trick, but paint isn't the only way to make your interior stand out. If you really want to make a statement, consider a bolder option, such as flooring as a wall covering.

There are several types of wall textures that will add personality to your home. Give your walls an organic boost with a touch of unexpected tile, or create an accent wall that mimics wood paneling using vinyl planks. Are you renting and need something temporary? Then peel-and-stick tiles are a great choice for either a pop of color or print. When it comes to adapting flooring to your walls, the possibilities are endless.

Give your guest bathroom a stylish look by creating a unique accent wall using large wood-like laminate planks. First, cut the planks to fit your accent wall. Then, find the studs in your wall, and use a nail gun to install the laminate. When it comes to selecting the right laminate for your space, finish and color are two qualities to consider. You can choose between a matte or glossy finish, but matte tends to look more realistic since it better resembles untreated wood. If you want a more rustic or natural look, then go with matte. However, a glossy finish can help bounce light off the walls, making it a great pick for smaller or darker rooms, such as powder rooms.  When it comes to color, darker tones can create a cozy environment, while lighter variations will make your space feel bigger.

Peel-and-stick vinyl flooring doesn't have to be reserved for your floors. Although some experts warn that peel-and-stick flooring might not hold up long-term in highly trafficked areas, an accent wall is the perfect use for this convenient material. For example, try creating a herringbone pattern with wood-inspired vinyl tiles for a sophisticated look, and use a peel-and-stick cutting hack to help you shape the cladding around weird corners and fixtures. This VallisCo peel-and-stick vinyl flooring is an affordable option that is easy to install. If wood isn't your style, there are also tile patterns to play with — like the Art3d large peel-and-stick floor tile.

If you don't love the look of wood vinyl or laminate, it is also possible to use engineered hardwood on your walls. These planks have real wood as a top layer, allowing you even to sand and stain them a few times if you change your mind about their appearance. This will give you both the look and feel of hardwood. However, you have to be meticulous about preparation. 

Both heavy-duty adhesive and a nail gun will be necessary to ensure the panels are flush against your wall. You can then glue down your wood planks in the pattern of your choice with a product like the Gorilla Ultimate Waterproof Wood Glue, and follow it up with nails to secure it. There are several decorative hacks for creating wood accent walls, and it all depends on the look you are trying to achieve. If you want to create a modern look, consider using a vertical pattern for a trendy take on this classic design concept.

Large-scale, floor-to-ceiling tiles have become a major trend. You can easily create a cohesive look in your bathroom by continuing the same large-format tiles from your floor all the way to your ceiling, creating a cocooning effect. It's the tile equivalent of color-drenching the room!

Use marble-style tiles on both the floor and all four walls if your goal is to design a luxurious space. However, rather than investing in real marble or stone — which is very heavy — look for thin porcelain tiles with veining. Not only are they a durable option, but they will be much easier to haul up and install near the ceiling line. 

For an ultra-textured look, try using a double-adhesive tile mat for a stone or pebble mosaic look. Some artificial stone tiles come with their own adhesive backing, so you can stick them directly to your wall. If not, you can use the help of a double-adhesive tile mat to serve as your sticky surface. This is much easier to use than mortar since there is no mess, and you don't have to wait for the tile to dry before adding your grout, making the project wrap quicker. Consider using the pre-mixed Custom Bright White Premium Grout for lines anywhere between 1/16" and ½". Beyond the application on an accent wall, discover whether adhesive tile mat backsplashes are right for your kitchen.

If you love a modern industrial interior, this DIY hack is right up your alley. Mix a liquid cement compound with black cement dye. Create three batches with three different levels of darkness so you can create visual variation. Then, use a trowel to paint all three shades onto your wall, making sure they blend into each other. 

If you want a more uniform effect, you can purchase pre-mixed concrete in a medium gray tone and apply it across your entire wall. Try the top-rated Dap 31084 Concrete Patch, which can cover up to 200 square feet. No matter which method you choose, always make sure your walls are prepped properly before applying any cement mix. To do so, you can use a paint primer to create a smooth surface.

Carpet on walls doesn't have to be a strictly retro concept. Swap the vintage shag look for modern carpet squares. If you really want to make a statement, choose patterned squares for enhanced visual interest. All you need is a staple gun to complete the installation. 

There are tons of dynamic design options, but if you're looking for something vintage, try Reoriented, which are Oriental-rug-inspired squares. However, if you want something more graphic, try Gatsby. For more options, check out design-conscious brands that focus on creating carpet tiles, such as FLOR. For a less permanent way to experiment with this trend, these are the top tips for hanging rugs as artwork.

Terracotta tiles are a trending floor option, but these handmade beauties can also be used to create an organic accent wall. You can use a leveling compound on your wall to ensure a smooth surface. Once it has dried, use your tile adhesive to apply the tiles. After the adhesive has dried and the tiles are securely on the wall, you can use a grout float to apply the grout. You can choose between a variety of patterns, including hexagons, arabesques, or traditional Moroccan stars and cross designs.