Wallpaper Design Guide: How to Seamlessly Incorporate Wallpaper Into Your Home
Wallpaper is back, and in a big way!
When you think of wallpaper, images of your parent's old kitchen with noisy patterns might come to mind. But, the truth is, wallpaper is anything but dated. The iconic wall treatment is having a major moment in interior design and it's so versatile!
If you’ve been wanting to decorate with wallpaper, but feel intimidated then keep reading. In this guide, we're reviewing all the ways you can incorporate wallpaper into your home to elevate your spaces and create a unique and personal environment.
Designed by Kristen Elizabeth Design, Photographed by Kat Alves, Wallpaper is Thibaut
Wallpaper Types and Materials
Design by Kristen Elizabeth Design, Photographed by Rikki Snyder, Wallpaper is Abigail Edwards
When exploring the world of wallpaper, let’s first cover the types of materials available, as each offers unique characteristics and suitability for different environments.
Vinyl
Known for easy installation and removal, vinyl wallpaper is one of the most common types of wallpaper. It's also a great choice for areas prone to moisture, like kitchens and bathrooms, and often comes pre-pasted, simplifying the hanging process.
Non-Woven
Non-woven wallpaper is resistant to moisture and water, making it an excellent option for humid environments. Its adhesive backing adheres directly to the wall, ensuring straightforward installation.
Paper
Paper wallpaper beautifully showcases color and patterns. However, it's less durable than other types and can scratch or tear. While delicate, paper wallpaper offers a classic aesthetic that can enhance any room.
Fabric
Fabric wallpaper is a luxury option. Unlike vinyl, fabric wallpaper doesn't come pre-pasted and requires careful installation to prevent wrinkles and air bubbles. Fabric wallpaper adds elegance and sophistication to any space.
Grass Cloth
Made from natural woven fibers grass cloth wallpaper has a unique texture and aesthetic. Unlike patterned wallpaper it doesn't require precise matching, making it easier to hang. The organic aesthetic of grass cloth adds depth and character to your walls, creating an inviting atmosphere.
By understanding the distinctions between these wallpaper materials, you can make informed decisions based on your design preferences and the needs of your space. Whether you prioritize durability, aesthetics, or ease of application, there's wallpaper that’s right for you.
What to Consider When Choosing Wallpaper
Design by Kristen Elizabeth Design, Photographed by Rikki Snyder
Selecting the right wallpaper involves more than knowing your materials and picking a pattern you like. It's about harmonizing with your home's existing décor, setting the mood for each room, and expressing your personality.
Wallpaper is a bigger commitment than paint color, so you’ll want to ensure you’re happy with your selection. If you’re considering patterned wallpaper think about the scale of the pattern and how that relates to the scale of the room, in addition to the other patterns already in the space.
Take into account the function of each space—whether it's a cozy bedroom retreat or a vibrant living room gathering place—choose patterns, colors, and textures that reflect its purpose and ambiance.
Different Ways to Design with Wallpaper
Design by Kristen Elizabeth Design, Photographed by Kat Alves, Wallpaper is Arte International
Incorporating wallpaper into your home design offers endless possibilities for adding personality and charm to your living spaces. Whether you prefer subtle elegance or bold statements, there are various approaches to integrating wallpaper into your interior décor.
Make a Subtle Statement
If you're hesitant about diving headfirst into wallpaper design, consider these subtle yet impactful ways to include wallpaper in your home.
Accent Wall: Opt for a single wall as a focal point, allowing the wallpaper to command attention without overwhelming the entire room. Also, consider unconventional options like wallpapering the ceiling for an unexpected element and added visual interest.
In our Sag Harbor Modern project, we incorporated a wallpaper headboard accent wall in each bedroom. This design choice allowed us to set the tone to fit the function of each room, from the main bedroom to the guest room, and kid's room.
Nook or Partial Wall: Transform overlooked spaces like nooks or alcoves into cozy retreats by adorning them with wallpaper. Or consider adding wallpaper above wainscoting to create a cohesive look that draws the eye upward.
Small Room: Smaller rooms, such as powder rooms or guest bathrooms, provide the perfect canvas for experimenting with bold prints or vibrant colors. The limited space allows for more daring design choices without feeling overpowering.
In one of the bathrooms of our El Dorado Modern project, we went with a watercolor-inspired wallpaper while keeping the rest of the design elements minimal. The fun print works well in the smaller space while tying into the color palette of the rest of the home.
Subtle Wallpaper: Even if you want to wallpaper a whole room, can you do so without making a bold statement. By choosing solid, textured, or subtly patterned wallpaper you can enhance the room's ambiance without overwhelming the senses.
For example, in our project Eric’s House, we used a cream grasscloth wallpaper in the main bedroom. Rather than a striking focal point, it’s the perfect accent to the room, adding beautiful texture while complimenting the rest of the design.
Make a Big Impact
If you want to make a bold statement, explore these ways to incorporate wallpaper as the focal point of your home design.
Bold Color or Pattern: Embrace drama with wallpaper featuring large prints, intricate patterns, or vibrant colors. Eye-catching designs instantly elevate the aesthetic appeal of any room, infusing it with personality and style.
In the breakfast nook of our Artful and Glamorous project, we incorporated a whimsical yet sophisticated frog wallpaper. The large pattern suits the scale of the space and makes it a striking focal point.
Mural Wallpaper: Transform your walls into works of art with mural wallpaper, which creates stunning visual narratives and adds depth to your space. From picturesque landscapes to abstract motifs, mural wallpaper allows you to make a bold design statement while transforming the feel of a room.
For the main bedroom of our Artful and Glamorous project, we chose a beautiful yet serene floral mural wallpaper. It instantly elevates the space, converting their bedroom into a sophisticated yet relaxing retreat.
Full Room: To create a cohesive and immersive environment consider wallpapering a full room. Whether you choose to cover all four walls or combine wallpaper with complementary paint colors, a fully wallpapered room makes a powerful visual impact. Consider extending the wallpaper to the ceiling for a seamless effect, or opt for wallpapering half a room to introduce texture and depth while maintaining balance.
By exploring these different approaches to wallpaper design, you can tailor your home design to reflect your style and preferences. Whether you prefer understated sophistication or bold statements, wallpaper offers a versatile and creative way to transform your living spaces.
Wallpaper Installation Tips
Design by Kristen Elizabeth Design, Photographed by Stephanie Russo, Wallpaper is Feathr
Proper preparation is key to achieving professional results when installing wallpaper. Make sure your walls are clean and primed before installation. Regardless of the type of wallpaper you choose, we recommend going with professional installation. This will not only save time and minimize potential issues but will ensure your wallpaper is seamlessly installed.
Wallpaper Maintenance
Design by Kristen Elizabeth Design, Photographed by Ellen Vanessa, Wallpaper is Phillip Jeffries
To prolong the lifespan of your wallpaper and keep it looking its best, follow manufacturer guidelines for cleaning and maintenance. In high-traffic areas, opt for durable wallpaper materials that can withstand daily wear and tear. Should you wish to refresh your space without a complete overhaul, consider wallpaper accents or removable wallpaper options for quick and easy updates.
Final Thoughts
Design by Kristen Elizabeth Design, Photographed by Ellen Vanessa, Wallpaper is Anewall
Incorporating wallpaper into your home décor allows you to infuse your style and creativity into every corner of your living space. By following these expert tips, you can confidently embark on your wallpaper design adventure and transform your home into a reflection of your unique personality and aesthetic vision.
If you need more guidance or want to take on a bigger home design project then call in the pros! We’re here to make your design journey as easy as possible. From multi-room refreshes to new construction or remodel projects we’ll bring your dream home to life!
Ready to get started? Contact us today to discuss your unique project goals and needs.
