Wallpaper sometimes gets a bad rep. You either love it or you hate it. Most people only consider using wallpaper to cover up bad plasterwork, but it’s actually the ultimate way to turn a bland room into a beauty.
I am one of those rare beings that loves wallpaper. I love the patterns, the texture, the colour. I love how it can change a room entirely and give it a brand new personality.
Everyone can benefit from a little wallpaper in their life.
1. Express Your style
There’s no doubt about it, wallpaper makes a statement – use that to your advantage, don’t be intimidated. You don’t have to go for bold and bright geometric designs or brassy floral patterns if that’s not your thing. A simple neutral palette can work just as well.
Vibrant colours, muted shades, bold patterns and touchable textures, there are so many different options when it comes to wallpaper, it’s as individual as you.
Think about what colours, patterns and textures appeal to you. Wallpaper is artwork. Use your emotions. How does it make you feel? A wallpapered room should envelop you in a warm hug when you step inside. It should make you feel comfortable and relaxed in your space.
2. Create Your Perfect Space
There isn’t a right or wrong when it comes to wallpaper. It’s a very personal thing. Do you prefer small prints or large? Bold colours or muted shades? You can use wallpaper on every wall in a room, or only one. Maybe you want to highlight a reading nook, or some built-in book shelves?
Have you ever noticed that a lot of top-end hotels opt for textured wallpaper? Texture lends itself towards a more luxurious feel, so you can give a room a more expensive look without breaking the bank.
Bold geometric prints can be funky and vibrant or soothing and calm, it all depends on the shape and colour, but both lend themselves towards creating a more contemporary feel.
Florals are generally softer no matter what colour palette you choose. Dark florals work quite well in hallways and bathrooms, adding a little bit of drama and depth. Lighter florals work well in any room but are especially rich when paired with natural textured fabrics.
3. Feature Walls are Your Friend
The trend of wallpapering an entire room is back in force, but there’s still much to be said for a feature wall. If a bold and busy print calls to you, but you’re overwhelmed at the thought of having it on every wall, you can always opt for a feature wall.
Papering one wall, or even just a chimney breast or behind some open shelving can add an inspiring focal point to any room. Wallpaper will naturally draw the eye, so think about what you want people to look at when they walk into a room and draw their attention to it.
Wallpaper can make the biggest impact in the smallest spaces and can earn your home some serious design cred – try papering your downstairs WC or even a hall cupboard.
With wood panelling making a a triumphant comeback, try combining these two dramatic styles in one. Use wall panelling to frame wallpaper by only papering inside the panelling, after all, wallpaper is art.
Bottom line? Wallpaper is here to stay.
Pinterest is a brilliant tool for finding innovative ideas for how you can use wallpaper in your home. I find most of my inspirational images there.