So you want to change the feel of a room, but painting all four walls is such a drag. Think about it: doing the calculations for how much paint you'll need in your head, wrestling the ladder from one end of the room to the other as you go about the job, plus actually getting on and doing it. And in the end, if the lighting in your room isn't just so, all those efforts spent on redecorating a room wall-to-wall-to-wall-to-wall can go to waste.

Well, fret not, homeowners. As interior design guru Brian Kelsey attests, if you really want to change the feel of a room - and wow visitors after you've done so - then add an accent or feature wall.

"One of the best ways to change the design of a room is to add an accent wall," the expert told Stylelist Home magazine this week. "The easier way to accomplish this of course is too paint one wall a contrasting colour."

But paint isn't the only option. Decorating just one wall has obvious benefits - it's cheaper, as there is less area to cover - meaning you can splurge on supplies that little bit more. Ornate and luxurious wallpapers really pop when contrasted with three more mutely coloured walls, while playing with surface and texture is another possibility.

"Other ideas… apply antique wood, by either using an adhesive or simply nailing into the studs," says Brian. "You could also create a faux brick wall by using brick veneer tiles. You can apply stone, metal - even fabric!"

And another way to add drama to your feature room is with a focal point, such as modern ceiling lights. The brave or unusual combinations of shades and lighting can wow when suspended over a dinner table or as part of a stunning bedroom, and can be an affordable way to create a centrepiece to your room (and one that doesn't get in the way).

The perfect way to finish off your newly renovated room? It's the little details: chrome sockets and new light switches will accent your accent wall, and pick out any design or colour of your choosing.