Banner image courtesy of Christian Kaindl
The wall space above your sofa is often one of the first things people notice when they walk into a living room. It’s a large, open area that can either make your space look stylish and complete or feel plain and unfinished. If you’re unsure how to decorate it, you’re not alone. Many people struggle with filling that space in a way that feels balanced and fits with the rest of their home.
A good place to start is by collecting photos of living rooms you like. Look for patterns in the images — maybe you’re drawn to colourful art, shelves with books and plants, or simple designs. Once you get a feel for what you like, you can start planning what might work best for your space. Whether you’re updating your living space or exploring fresh wall decor ideas for your sofa in Perth, the latest styles offer something for everyone—from timeless designs to sleek, modern looks. To help you get started, here are five simple and popular ideas to decorate the wall above your sofa.
Hang a Large Mirror
A big mirror can make a small living room feel much bigger. Mirrors reflect light, which makes your space feel open and bright. If you place a mirror across from a window, the natural light will bounce around the room and make it feel more airy. Try leaning a large mirror against the wall or hanging it just above the sofa. You can even place a floor lamp in front of it to double the brightness. Another idea is to hang small wall lights on each side of the mirror for extra style and function.
Display a Large Piece of Art
One large piece of artwork can make a strong statement. It brings colour and personality to the room without making the wall feel crowded. Choose a painting, photo, or print that matches your sofa and other furniture. If you’re starting with a blank room, you can even choose your art first and design the rest of the room around its colours. Just make sure the artwork isn’t wider than the sofa. A good size will help balance the wall and make the room feel complete.
Paint an Accent Wall
Painting the wall behind your sofa a different colour can change the mood of your living room, whether you have a leather lounge or a velvet lounge. This is known as an accent wall. It’s a great way to add depth, especially if the rest of your room is neutral. Choose a colour that goes well with your furniture. Dark tones like navy or deep green can add warmth, while lighter shades keep things bright and fresh.
Hang a Wall Clock
A large wall clock is both useful and decorative. It gives the space a sense of purpose and can help fill the empty wall without looking too busy. You’ll find plenty of styles to choose from, whether you like something sleek and modern or more classic and cosy. Hang the clock so it’s easy to see, but not too low. It should sit a bit above eye level to draw the eye upward and make the space feel taller. A simple design around the clock can also help it stand out without feeling too bold.
Try Decorative Lighting
Lighting does more than just brighten a room — it helps set the mood and adds style. You can use a floor lamp next to the sofa, hang wall lights, or even try lights that highlight other wall decorations. If you mix different types of lights, you’ll have options for every time of day. Use soft lighting in the evening for a cosy feel and brighter lights during the day when you want the room to feel fresh and lively. Try warm-toned bulbs to create a comfortable, welcoming space.
Final Thoughts
Decorating the wall above your sofa set doesn’t have to be hard. Start with one simple idea, and go from there. You can always build on it over time as your taste and needs change. If you have extra room behind or beside the sofa, a floor lamp can be a great addition. It adds height and light, making the space feel more balanced. Choose warm-toned bulbs for a soft, cosy glow in the evenings.
No matter which option you choose — whether it’s a mirror, artwork, clock, or wallpaper — the key is to make sure it reflects your personality and fits well with the rest of your living room. With a little planning, you can turn that empty wall into one of your favourite parts of the home.