How To Decorate An Archway In Your Home

Okay, real talk archways are seriously underrated. They’ve got that built-in wow factor most walls could only dream of. Whether you’re dealing with a charming old-school curve or a fancy modern twist, an archway can turn your “meh” hallway into a “whoa, this is cute!” moment. The best part? You don’t need to be an interior design genius to make it work (thankfully).

Let’s break it all down, friend to friend. You’ve got an archway and no clue what to do with it I’ve been there. So here’s how to decorate it like you actually know what you’re doing (even if you’re just winging it like the rest of us).

Start With the Obvious: Paint or Wallpaper

Add a Bold Contrast Color

One of the easiest ways to instantly give your archway some personality is by painting it a different color than the walls around it.

• Go dark for drama (navy, emerald, charcoal—you get the vibe).
• Or try a pop of color that screams you (burnt orange, sage green, millennial pink?).
• Feeling bold? Paint just the interior curve of the arch. Trust me, it’s subtle but chef’s kiss.

Wallpaper = Instant Character

Ever tried putting wallpaper inside the arch or above it? It’s like framing a piece of art… except that art is your house.

• Go floral for a cottagecore vibe.
• Try geometrics for a modern feel.
• Use peel-and-stick if commitment isn’t your strong suit (no judgment here).

Bold takeaway: Paint and wallpaper turn plain arches into focal points—without destroying your wallet.

Make It Glow: Lighting Magic

Add an LED Strip

Ever seen an archway with a hidden LED glow? Game-changer. It gives your space that “I totally hired a designer” look even if your only design experience is choosing throw pillows on sale.

• Use warm white LEDs for cozy vibes.
• Or go smart with color-changing ones (because yes, your archway deserves mood lighting too).

Go Classic With a Pendant Light

If your arch is near an entry or hallway, hang a mini pendant light right in the center. It adds elegance without the effort.

Rhetorical question time: Why light a boring hallway when you can spotlight your arch like the star it is?

Green It Up: Plants Make Everything Better

Climbing Plants or Vines

IMO, nature plus architecture = a total vibe. Add climbing plants like pothos or ivy that drape softly around the arch. Use adhesive hooks or trellis wire to guide them.

Hanging Planters

Place a planter just inside or above the arch, and let it hang dramatically. Bonus points if it’s something flowy like a spider plant.

Bold tip: Plants soften the hard lines and bring your archway to life—literally.

Frame It Like Art

Install Molding or Trim

If you’re into that bougie look (same), adding trim around your arch gives it serious architectural depth. Think of it like contouring, but for your walls.

• Simple molding = clean and classy.
• Ornate trim = old-world charm.

Add a Shelf Above

Yup, you can install a floating shelf right above the arch. Use it to show off:

• Vintage books
• Ceramic pieces
• A collection of mini plants (because why stop at one?)

FYI: You don’t need a degree in carpentry to do this just a level, brackets, and some DIY courage.

Curtain Call: Drapes or Beads (Yes, Beads)

Soft Drapes = Instant Drama

Ever walked through an archway with flowing fabric draped over it? Feels like entering a fairytale. Go for:

• Sheer curtains for softness
• Velvet for that luxe look
• Macrame if you’re channeling boho vibes

Mount the rod right at the curve, or outside it for extra flair.

Retro Beaded Curtains

Okay, hear me out. Beaded curtains have made a low-key comeback. Hang them just inside the arch for a nostalgic but surprisingly stylish look. (Don’t roll your eyes—it’s a vibe if you commit.)

Bold takeaway: Soft textures like fabric and beads add movement and personality to an otherwise static structure.

Gallery Goals: Archway as a Display

Mini Art Gallery

Frame the inside of the arch with a series of small artworks or prints. It gives the space a boutique gallery feel.

• Try black-and-white photography for timelessness.
• Use colorful abstract prints if you want to go bold.
• Add personal art or kids’ drawings for a sweet, lived-in touch.

Built-in Niche Display

If your arch leads into a niche or alcove, decorate it like a mini showroom. Add:

• A small console table
• Statement vase or sculpture
• Mirror for depth

Rhetorical Q: Why waste a niche when you can style it like an Instagram post waiting to happen?

Go Seasonal (aka Easy Swaps FTW)

Decorating doesn’t have to be permanent. I switch up my archway decorations way more than I care to admit.

• Spring: Faux floral garlands or pastel ribbons
• Fall: Mini pumpkins, dried leaves, rustic wood
• Holidays: Fairy lights, wreaths, or a tasteful sprinkle of glitter (emphasis on tasteful )
  

Bold tip: Temporary decor keeps things fresh—your archway deserves to dress up too.

Conclusion: Your Archway, Your Rules

So, there you have it your archway doesn’t need to be basic. Whether you’re slapping on some paint, wrapping it in vines, or hanging dramatic velvet drapes like you live in a castle, the point is this: make it feel like you.

You don’t need to break the bank or call in a pro. Most of these ideas are renter-friendly, budget-friendly, and (best of all) totally fun to experiment with.

Next time you walk through that arch, I hope you smile and think, “Yeah, I nailed this.”Now go give your archway the love it deserves. And hey, if someone asks who your interior designer is wink and say it’s a secret .