Renter-Friendly Modern Accent Wall: No Glue, No Screws DIY Tutorial

Transform your space with a renter-friendly accent wall—no glue, no screws, big impact! Easy DIY tutorial by Shanty2Chic!

When we moved into our home nearly two years ago, I knew it would take time (and a few dozen DIY projects) to make it truly feel like us. Since then, I’ve been slowly updating spaces, adding those little custom touches that bring warmth, personality, and dimension. One of the areas I’ve had my eye on? The entryway.

I wanted something bold, modern, and stylish—but I also didn’t want to commit to anything permanent. That’s how this renter-friendly, removable wall treatment came to be. It’s high-impact, low-commitment, and doesn’t require any glue or screws. Whether you’re renting or just not quite ready to commit to a permanent feature wall, this DIY project is a game-changer.

Why This Project Is Perfect for Renters (and Anyone Avoiding Permanent Changes)

While I’m not currently in a rental home, I designed this wall treatment with renters and apartment dwellers in mind. I didn’t want to use adhesives or screws in case I decide to change things up later (which, let’s be honest, I probably will). By attaching everything with finish nails and pin nails, it’s easy to modify or remove—just a little spackle and sanding can take care of the small nail holes, and there’s no sticky residue left behind like with some adhesives or stick-on products.

This approach makes it ideal for anyone trying to avoid upsetting their landlord or permanently altering plain walls. It’s also a great alternative to stick wallpaper, especially if you’re looking for something with more texture and architectural interest.

If you’re looking to add visual interest to your space without a permanent commitment, this wall treatment is an ideal choice. It adds character, depth, and instant focal points to otherwise overlooked areas—like hallways, entryways, or even bedrooms in a rental home.

So, let’s get to building! You can watch me build this wall on our Instagram channel here!

Make sure to download the free printable plans as well!

Click here to jump to the free printable plans!

What You’ll Need

Tools:

• Miter Saw
• Drill
• Finish Nailer
• Pin Nailer
• Circular Saw
• Jigsaw
• Stud finder
• Tape Measure
• Level
• Sander

Supplies:

• 2 – 1/2″ x 48″x 96″ Hardwood Plywood
• 1 – 1x6x10 Primed MDF
• 1 – 1x4x8 Primed MDF
• 6 – 1/4″ x 3/4″ x 96″ Screen Moulding
• 2 ½” finish nails
• 1” pin nails
• Wood filler
• Painter’s tape
• Paint (Tinted to Naval by Sherwin Williams)

Step-by-Step: How I Brought This Renter Friendly Accent Wall to Life

Step 1: Frame It Out with MDF Trim

I kicked things off by cutting MDF trim to size and framing out the area I wanted to treat. I started with the outside edges of the wall. This created a clean border and made the whole thing feel intentional and built-in.

I attached the trim to the wall using 2½” finish nails—no screws, no glue, just hitting the studs where I could for extra hold.

Once the two vertical trim pieces were attached, I measured and cut for the top trim piece and attached it to the wall the same way.

Step 2: Add the Plywood Panels

Next up: plywood. I cut two 4×8′ sheets to fit inside the trim frame. For the outlet, I removed the wall plate, measured where the cutout needed to be, marked it on the plywood, drilled a pilot hole, and used my jigsaw to cut it out.

*Note: Make sure to turn the breaker off before this step to be safe.

Then I pulled the outlet forward slightly, slid the plywood behind it, reattached the outlet, and nailed the panel into the studs with finish nails.

Once the bottom panel was up, I did the same for the top one.

Step 3: Start the Decorative Trim – Center First

Time for the fun part! I cut my ¾” screen moulding for the vertical center pieces, then centered and nailed them onto the plywood using 1-inch pin nails. Starting in the middle helped me keep the design symmetrical as I worked outward.

Step 4: Diagonal Trim for the Win

This is where it all started to come together visually. I measured and cut all the diagonal trim pieces, making sure each end was mitered at 45°, long point to long point. Once everything was cut, I attached them with pin nails.

Watching the pattern build out was so satisfying—it added incredible texture and depth.

Step 5: Fill, Sand, and Prep to Paint

I filled all the nail holes with wood filler and gave the entire wall a good sanding. This step makes a huge difference—don’t skip it. It’s the key to a smooth finish and easy nail hole removal later if you decide to change things up.

Step 6: Paint It Bold

Time to make it pop. I taped off the surrounding wall and applied three coats of Sherwin Williams Naval. The deep navy tone added just the right amount of drama and sophistication—and emphasized the pattern and dimension created by the trim.

• You can find our favorite paint that I used for this wall here.

The Styling Moment

Once the paint dried, I styled the space with a few of my favorite DIY decorations: my handmade console table, a cozy cowhide bench, a round mirror, and a pair of wireless sconces for that extra glow.

It feels like an entirely new space—modern, welcoming, and full of inspiration—and I didn’t have to tear up a single inch of drywall to do it.

Final Thoughts

This renter-friendly accent wall is proof that you don’t need glue, screws, or a massive budget to create a high-end look. It’s renter-friendly, removable, and completely transformative. The versatility of this project means it could work in a hallway, bedroom, office, or any other rental space you’re trying to personalize. So if you’re stuck staring at plain walls and dreaming of something more, this is your sign to take the leap.

Let me know if you try it. Tag me in your projects—I love seeing your DIY magic at work!

Information On Everything In My Entryway

• Cowhide Bench – Free Plans Coming Soon!
• Modern Console Table – Free Plans!
• Round Mirror
• Light Sconces
• Rug
• How I Cased My Openings – Free Plans!

Check out some of our other DIY Wall Treatments

Modern Board and Batten

Wood Planked Wall

Barn Wood Herringbone Wall