Most accent walls look best when they adjoin walls in a light to medium shade. Accent walls in an all-white room are stunning but tricky. The contrast of a bright accent wall against white walls can look very modern and even stark. Balance your strong accent wall color with neutral wall colors on the other walls.

We asked paint color experts to share the best accent wall paint colors for every area of your home. They suggest opting for shades of yellow, blue, gray-green, and pale purple.

Accent colors are meant to pop, and create visual interest in a space: When choosing an accent wall, select a wall with purpose–your eye will be drawn to it immediately. For rooms with darker color walls, consider going lighter for an accent wall. If the walls are light and airy, consider a deeper, bolder color.

Generally, light gray, powder blue, aleutian blue, light sage, light mint, charcoal, and olive are some of the best accent wall colors for a small living room. These colors infuse the living space with a gentle and calming energy, while also visually expanding the room, making it appear larger and more open.