What Are Accent Walls and Why They’re Trending in Orlando FL
Accent walls are a smart, stylish way to add depth and character to a space without overwhelming it. In Orlando homes, where open floor plans and bright interiors are the norm, accent walls help define rooms and elevate design.
An accent wall is a single wall in a room that stands out—through color, material, or texture. Popular types include:
Painted feature walls in bold or moody tones
Wood slat walls for texture and warmth
Shiplap walls for that modern-rustic blend
Florida’s warm, sunny climate and love for light, breezy décor makes white shiplap and wood trims an ideal match.
What is a Shiplap Fireplace Wall?
A shiplap fireplace wall is a media feature that combines:
Shiplap paneling – horizontal wood planks that overlap slightly for a clean, linear look
Electric fireplace insert – modern, ventless units that offer cozy flames and optional heat
Wood mantle – often in cedar or oak to introduce texture and warmth
This setup becomes the focal point of your living room, adding visual impact and practical value by incorporating a TV, warmth, and ambient light in one cohesive unit.
Benefits of Accent Walls in Florida Homes
Why are more Orlando homeowners requesting accent walls?
Defines open layouts: Helps structure large living or dining areas without walls
Showcases design personality: Perfect for adding creativity without a full remodel
Humidity-friendly materials: Shiplap, MDF, and engineered wood hold up well in Florida’s climate
Pairs well with light palettes: Matches popular Florida interior trends—white, beige, soft gray, coastal blues
Whether you're in Winter Park, Lake Nona, or Baldwin Park, accent walls can transform your space instantly.
Why Shiplap Works So Well in Orlando
In Central Florida’s climate, durability matters. That’s where engineered shiplap shines:
Resists warping in high humidity
Easy to install on drywall
Looks great painted white or stained for contrast
Ideal for coastal, farmhouse, transitional, or Scandinavian-style interiors
Plus, shiplap’s clean lines enhance natural light, keeping interiors cool, calm, and bright—perfect for Florida living.
Designer’s Note – Max Shares His Thoughts on Orlando Accent Wall Design
When I work with clients in Orlando, I always look for ways to balance light, texture, and function, says Max, lead interior designer at Accent Wall Designs.
Shiplap works beautifully in Florida homes because it’s clean, classic, and it reflects natural light really well. Paired with a cedar mantle and a recessed fireplace, it creates that perfect blend of comfort and sophistication.
We’re not just building feature walls—we’re creating focal points that make people feel more at home the moment they walk in. Every line, every detail matters.Max’s design philosophy shines through in every Orlando project, where thoughtful layout and local lifestyle come together to shape warm, functional spaces.
| Material | Why We Recommend It |
|---|---|
| Pre-finished Shiplap | Easy to clean and resistant to humidity – ideal for Florida climate |
| Cedar or Oak Mantles | Natural texture, rot-resistant, visually rich and long-lasting |
| Sherwin-Williams Paint | High-quality coverage, fade-resistant, perfect for bright interiors |
| TS or Dimplex Electric Fireplaces | Realistic flame visuals, heat optional, safe and ventless |
Popular Accent Wall Styles We Build in Orlando
At Accent Wall Designs, we offer a wide range of feature walls for homeowners throughout Orlando:
Board and Batten Walls – Classic vertical style that adds structure
Shiplap Accent Walls – Horizontal lines for warmth and modernity
Slat Wood Walls – Great behind TVs or beds, often stained in walnut or cedar
Painted Geometric Walls – Bold shapes in moody tones for creative flair
Custom Fireplace Media Walls – Blending function, storage, and focal point
Recent Project: Shiplap Fireplace in an Orlando Living Room
One of our recent installs featured a white shiplap fireplace wall with:
A built-in electric fireplace insert
A solid cedar wood mantle
A flush-mounted flat screen TV above
Hidden wiring for a clean finish
This project, located in East Orlando, turned a blank wall into a designer centerpiece. The natural cedar grain stood out beautifully against the matte white shiplap. With the TV off, the glowing flames still brought life into the space—especially at night.
Materials We Recommend for Orlando Clients
We select materials that perform well in Florida homes:
MaterialWhy We Recommend ItPre-finished ShiplapEasy to clean and resistant to humidityCedar or Oak MantlesNatural texture, rot-resistant, visually richSherwin-Williams PaintHigh-quality coverage and fade resistanceTS or Dimplex Electric FireplacesRealistic flame look, no venting required
Step-by-Step Process for Building a Shiplap Fireplace Wall
Here’s how we bring the design to life:
Design Consultation – We help you choose layout, materials, and finishes
Wall Framing & Electrical – Install studs and wire in the recessed fireplace
Shiplap Installation – Cut and attach horizontal boards using adhesive and brads
Painting & Sealing – Fill, sand, and apply premium interior paint
Mounting the TV & Mantle – Safely hang with proper clearances
Final Walkthrough – Ensure every detail is clean and balanced
Timeline and Budget Expectations
In Orlando, the average cost of a shiplap fireplace feature wall ranges from:
$2,500 to $5,500, depending on size, materials, and fireplace model
Most projects are completed in 3 to 5 days
Optional upgrades include accent lighting, floating shelves, or custom cabinetry
Maintenance Tips for Florida Homes
Cedar Mantles: Dust regularly, re-seal yearly if natural
Painted Shiplap: Use a damp cloth and mild cleaner
Electric Fireplaces: Keep vents clear and glass clean
Humidity Management: Use dehumidifiers or central air to reduce expansion
“Customer Testimonial: Orlando Family on Their Fireplace Wall
Max and the team at Accent Wall Designs were incredible. They helped us pick the perfect shiplap and fireplace combo. The cedar mantle is our favorite part—it smells amazing and looks even better in person.”
Before and After: Transforming a Plain Room into a Designer Space
Before: A large, flat wall with no visual interest.
After: A stunning fireplace media center with warm wood tones, glowing ambiance, and sleek lines.
The homeowner said it best:
"It completely changed how we feel in the living room. Now it looks like something out of a magazine."
Why Choose Accent Wall Designs for Your Orlando Home
We’re proud to serve homeowners in Orlando with:
Custom Designs made just for your space
Fast Turnarounds (often within a week)
Reliable Craftsmanship from an experienced local team
Transparent Pricing and material guidance
From Winter Garden to Waterford Lakes, we deliver statement walls that last.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Does shiplap hold up in Florida humidity?
Yes. We use moisture-resistant boards designed for warm, humid climates.
Q2: Is a fireplace wall practical in Florida?
Absolutely! Electric fireplaces offer ambiance without overheating the space.
Q3: Can this be installed in apartments or condos?
Yes. Electric fireplaces don’t require venting, and our installs are wall-mounted.
Q4: Will the wood warp over time?
Not if it’s properly sealed and maintained. We use kiln-dried, stable wood.
Q5: What is the best paint color for shiplap in Florida?
White, soft beige, and light gray are top choices for bright, airy interiors.
Q6: Can I mount a TV over the fireplace?
Yes! We plan proper heat clearance and electrical routing to make it safe and stylish.
Final Thoughts: Add Charm, Warmth, and Value to Your Home
An accent wall or fireplace feature can change the way your home looks and feels—without changing the whole structure. Whether you’re designing a dream living room or updating a builder-basic wall, our team at Accent Wall Designs in Orlando is here to help.
Contact us today for a free estimate and start planning your custom shiplap fireplace wall.
