The Joanna Gaines-Favored Accent Wall Trend That's Dominating Today's Trends

Natural stone is among 2025's most popular home decor trends, but if you're not building a new home or undergoing a renovation, how do you incorporate it into your space? "Fixer Upper" host Joanna Gaines has the answer: An exposed brick accent wall. Traditionally decorated with a bright pop of color, accent walls have been used for decades to add dimension, definition, and personality to a space. Using natural stone like bricks instead still creates the emphasis on the space, but in a more subtle way.

In Season 2, Episode 9 of "Fixer Upper," Gaines creates a stunning exposed brick accent wall in the primary bedroom, but that's not the only potential location. It is also a great way to highlight a statement couch in the living room — just choose a paint color for the interior brick that emphasizes the color of the piece.

Another ideal place for a brick accent wall is the kitchen — it can even double as a backsplash. But be warned: Red brick can lean too industrial, so add in some plants and warmer lights to bring coziness into the space. Or, use white brick to add more reflection and light while creating a clean look.

There are a few ways to DIY a brick accent wall like Gaines did. The easiest option is to use peel-and-stick wallpaper with a brick pattern, like Timeet Beige White Brick Wallpaper. While it won't have the exact feel of brick, it creates the look fast and within budget. Next up is using faux brick panels. Not sure how to install them? Simple: Measure and cut the panels to size, then use a nail gun to attach the panels to the studs in your wall.

If you want a gorgeous DIY brick feature wall that will last, pick up brick veneer from your local hardware store. Don't forget the mortar and grout since this requires a similar process to installing tile. While this process takes longer than peel-and-stick wallpaper, it can be worth it for a look you'll love.

After your brick accent wall is installed, it's time to style it. Take a page from Gaines' book and bring in lots of natural light. Gaines mentions on her Magnolia blog that during the remodel, they installed additional windows to brighten the brick accent wall, but that's not always a possibility. Luckily, there are other ways to improve natural light in your home. One of the most cost-effective ones is to paint your walls and ceiling a light color to brighten the entire space. Bring in some other natural materials, such as wood, if possible, to unify the space.