Alex Fisher
Today I’m going to explore the biggest Instagram interiors trend since the fiddle-leaf fig relentlessly took over the squares a few years ago: painted arch walls. But, as usual, I’m enjoying from the sidelines because we currently rent and don’t plan on staying here long.
The first time I remember seeing someone paint an arch on their wall was when Racheal Jackson did it last year for her One Room Challenge.
Racheal is a pro at this, and you can see more of her painted wall murals on her blog.
Rest assured, however, that you do not have to be as skilled to make a beautiful painted arch. You can even install shelves inside the arch and put together the coolest little library.
Want a neat trick to draw your eyes up and make your space feel taller than it is? This works best if you paint your walls a darker color, then your door, frame and arch a lighter shade or white.
This idea translates if your decor style is boho, Southwest or California casual. First, you can keep your cool headboard (especially if it’s brass or wrought iron) and paint several arches behind it in a contrasting color.
Another option: Keep it simple and paint one arch in one color and let it act alone as a headboard. Additionally, you can attempt the very popular kids room headboard: a rainbow.
Or that awkward space in the kitchen where backsplash doesn’t make sense, but neither does anything else. Painting an arch mural with several complementary colors can really breathe new life into these spaces.
If there’s one thing I’ve noticed since painted arches took hold, it’s that they are a gateway mural. Simply put, if you paint an arch, you’ll probably graduate to some more creative shapes before long. (one small can will typically do) Angled brush for the edges; roller for the large area
