Wallpaper: Transform Your Interior Design
The right wallpaper can elevate your decor in a big way. Wallpaper is a major design feature that you need to plan your room around, so it's super important that you know exactly what you want to do with your space and how the wallpaper will fit into that vision.
Accent Wall Ideas with Wallpaper
One popular way to incorporate wallpaper into your design is by creating an accent wall. This could be a headboard wall in a bedroom, a specialty wall in a living or dining area, an entryway, or even a ceiling. Some fun ceiling wallpaper ideas include big florals or a wonderful chevron basket weave pattern. These looks can all be achieved with the right wallpaper choice.
Choosing the Right Wallpaper Patterns and Texture
Wallpaper can also help you achieve a sense of height in your space, especially if you have lower ceilings. Two great options for this are ombre wallpaper that starts dark at the bottom and moves to light at the top, or vertical stripes (preferably with a softer contrast). Both of these choices can make your room feel taller.
If you're looking to add a pop of color or some visual texture to a certain space, like the end of a stairwell or an accent wall, wallpaper is a fantastic solution. A black seagrass paper can make a stunning accent, or you might opt for a subtle patterned wallpaper to add depth. Some other textural wallpaper ideas include:
- Graffiti-like lines for a subtle, textured look
- Animal prints for a bold accent
- Fornasetti-style clouds for a scene straight out of the 1700s
The scale of the pattern and the colors you choose will determine how effective your wallpaper is in your space. For dramatic, large accent areas like ceilings, headboard walls, or living and dining spaces, you can get away with large-scale patterns, murals, and stronger color contrasts. But for smaller spaces, opt for wallpaper with less contrast, more overall pattern, and smaller details, or even just a textural paper like seagrass.
Wallpaper Color Schemes and Design Styles
When choosing wallpaper, it's important to consider your overall design style and color palette. Contemporary spaces like organic modern, Scandinavian, and Japanese-inspired design can all work well with the right wallpaper, as long as it complements the feel of the space. Mid-century modern style is a rock star with wallpaper—there are tons of options that work beautifully in MCM spaces.
For transitional or traditional styles, the wallpaper world is your oyster. These styles have been using wallpaper for centuries, so there are endless choices that will work well. Think toile patterns, chinoiserie, tartans and plaids—all can be fantastic in the right space. And if you're going for a grand millennial or Neo-Victorian vibe, don't be afraid to go bold with your wallpaper choices!
Common Wallpaper Mistakes to Avoid
As much fun as wallpaper can be, there are some common mistakes you'll want to steer clear of:
- Don't put wallpaper on every wall and the ceiling. This creates visual chaos.
- Avoid busy, high-contrast, small patterns in kitchens. Kitchens do best with simple surfaces.
- When papering a full wall, never stop the paper short of the ceiling (unless you have significant trim or at least 10' ceilings).
- Don't overplay the wallpaper. This ruins its effect as a focal point.
Powder Room Wallpaper: Where All Rules Are Broken
The one space where you can throw out all the wallpaper rules? The powder room! This is where you can go wild with pattern, color, scale—anything goes. Do palm leaves floor to ceiling, cover the walls in bold graphics, and mix and match patterns. In the powder room, more is more and it's always a party.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
How do I choose the right wallpaper for my space?
Consider your overall design style and color palette first. Then think about the effect you want the wallpaper to have in your space—do you want it to be a bold accent or a subtle texture? The size of the space and the scale of the pattern will also play a role in your choice.
What are some current wallpaper trends?
Botanical and tropical prints, bold geometrics, textural papers, and retro-inspired patterns are all having a moment right now. But honestly, if you love it and it works in your space, it's never really out of style.
Can I put wallpaper in a bathroom?
Absolutely! Powder rooms are a great place to have fun with wallpaper. For full bathrooms, make sure you choose a wallpaper that can stand up to moisture and go for a more tonal look rather than high-contrast patterns.
How difficult is it to hang wallpaper myself?
It depends on your skill level and the type of wallpaper. Pre-pasted papers are easier for novices, while traditional papers that require paste can be trickier. It's definitely a project you can DIY, but it requires patience and attention to detail. When in doubt, hire a pro!
