Everyone knows that accent walls are over. In the early 2000s, painting one wall a different color was one of the most popular techniques for brightening a room, but as we enter 2026, the idea feels much less fresh. However, that doesn't mean that walls can't be artfully used to integrate color into the home.
Sofía Vergara's dining room walls are the prime example. Rather than painting a single wall, the actor transforms the space above her table with a large painting. The gold-framed wonder features a grouping of green trees, with notes of blue and yellow woven throughout. It's the perfect contrast to her cream-painted walls.
The approach of decorating with a large piece of art is much more effective than the traditional gallery wall because it brings in pattern, and allows Sofía to incorporate multiple colors. Adding real greenery like this adorable mini tree from Amazon would enhance the look.
Recreate Sofía's Look at Home
Fill your home with the joy of the woods using this beautiful print. Based on an original painting by the artist Konnie Kim, it's both elevated and relaxed.
This original landscape painting by Fiona Pierce gives a stunning impression of a sunrise over the forest. I love the earthy, yet avant-garde colors in this one.
If you want to try out the tree painting look at a low cost, this print set is a great place to start. They come framed, so they can be easily aligned on your wall.
Sofía's particular choice of a mostly green painting featuring natural motifs is also highly effective. Not only is the look a growing color trend (Google searches for pine green are up 45% and phthalo green are up 79% year-on-year), but it has timelessly soothing impacts.
Interior designer Karl Openshaw explains: 'Green is nature’s neutral; it restores balance the moment you walk into a room. It softens the mind, steadies your focus, and creates an emotional link to the outdoors, which is why it never falls out of fashion. Its versatility is unmatched: sage feels soothing, olive feels nurturing, and deep forest tones bring a sense of grounded luxury.' This is why a green dining room works everytime.
Luckily, there is an alternative accent wall color for every home. Karl advises: 'To decorate with green walls at home, tailor the shade to the room’s purpose. Soft greens in bedrooms encourage rest, richer greens in living rooms promote calm, and muted olives look incredible in kitchens. You don’t have to commit to a full wall; painted cabinetry, interior doors, or even statement shelving can give you the same wellbeing benefits.'
Bringing color and life into a room can be as simple as adding a piece of art. As Sofía Vergara's home demonstrates, there are always alternatives.
