The Ultimate Guide to Wallpaper & Your Home
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By PAGE Editor
Wallpaper has experienced a remarkable resurgence in interior design. Once considered outdated or overly traditional, it is now seen as one of the most powerful tools for transforming a space with minimal structural changes. Whether you're looking to create a cozy atmosphere, add drama to a room, or simply personalize your space, wallpaper offers endless possibilities.
In this ultimate guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about wallpaper and your home—from types and trends to application tips and where to find inspiration. Whether you're new to wallpaper or looking to upgrade your current design, this guide is your one-stop resource.
Why Wallpaper?
Wallpaper has made a comeback for several key reasons:
Versatility: With thousands of designs, colors, and textures available, wallpaper can suit any room or style.
Easy Impact: A single feature wall can completely change the mood of a room.
Innovation: Peel-and-stick options make wallpaper accessible for renters and DIYers.
Customization: Personalized and digitally printed wallpapers allow you to create a unique environment.
Wallpaper is no longer reserved for formal dining rooms or historic homes—today, it’s a design-forward choice for every room in the house.
Types of Wallpaper
Before selecting a wallpaper, it’s important to understand the different types and how they affect both application and durability.
1. Vinyl Wallpaper
Durable, moisture-resistant, and easy to clean. Ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and high-traffic areas.
2. Non-Woven Wallpaper
A breathable and tear-resistant material. It’s easy to install and remove, making it popular for DIY decorators.
3. Fabric-Backed Wallpaper
Offers a luxurious texture and appearance but can be more difficult to install. Often used in living rooms and bedrooms for a soft, high-end feel.
4. Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper
Perfect for renters or those who like to redecorate frequently. It can be applied without glue and removed without damage.
5. Grasscloth and Natural Fiber Wallpaper
Adds organic texture and warmth but is best used in low-humidity areas since it can be difficult to clean.
Choosing the Right Wallpaper for Each Room
Each room in your home has its own purpose and energy, and the wallpaper you choose should reflect that.
Living Room
This is your home’s central hub, so opt for something welcoming and expressive. Bold geometric prints, artistic murals, or textured wallpapers add interest and become a conversation piece.
Bedroom
Soothing tones and soft patterns work best here. Think botanical prints, pastel colors, or watercolor designs that promote relaxation and calm.
Kitchen
Durable and wipeable options like vinyl are ideal. You can go playful with food-themed prints or classy with tile-look wallpaper to mimic a backsplash.
Bathroom
Use moisture-resistant wallpaper to prevent peeling. Patterns that add depth—like faux marble or intricate prints—can elevate even small powder rooms.
Home Office
Here, balance is key. Choose designs that inspire productivity without overwhelming your senses. Abstract or nature-inspired patterns are especially effective.
Children’s Rooms
Go for fun and educational themes. Wallpaper can double as a chalkboard or include alphabet and animal motifs that grow with your child.
Current Wallpaper Trends
Staying current with wallpaper trends can help you choose designs that feel fresh and timeless.
1. Large-Scale Murals
Wall-sized illustrations or photo prints add immersive drama. Perfect for statement walls in bedrooms or dining rooms.
2. Textured and 3D Wallpaper
From faux brick to linen-look textures, tactile wallpapers add dimension and warmth to a space.
3. Nature-Inspired Prints
Botanical patterns, landscapes, and floral motifs continue to be popular, especially in muted or hand-drawn styles.
4. Maximalism
Bright colors, bold patterns, and layered aesthetics are making a strong comeback for those who want a home that truly expresses personality.
5. Metallic Finishes
Gold, copper, and silver accents in wallpaper reflect light and add a touch of glamour to otherwise simple spaces.
For a curated selection of on-trend designs and custom options, Wallism is a fantastic source for high-quality wallpaper that fits both modern and classic tastes.
How to Measure and Order Wallpaper
To avoid over- or under-ordering wallpaper, here’s a simple method for estimating how much you need:
Measure the height and width of each wall you want to cover.
Multiply height × width to get the square footage.
Subtract space for windows and doors.
Check the wallpaper roll’s label for coverage (usually listed in square feet or meters).
Add an extra 10–15% to account for pattern matching and mistakes.
Most online retailers and wallpaper brands offer calculators to help make the process easier.
Application Tips: DIY or Professional?
Installing wallpaper can be a fun DIY project, but it requires precision and patience. Here are some tips:
DIY Tips:
Always prep the walls: clean, patch holes, and apply primer if needed.
Use a level or plumb line to make sure your first panel is straight.
Start from the center of the wall if using a symmetrical or mural design.
Use a smoothing tool to eliminate air bubbles as you go.
Hire a Pro If:
You’re working with delicate materials like grasscloth.
The pattern requires perfect alignment (like intricate geometrics).
You have unusually shaped walls or lots of corners.
Wallpaper as Art
Don’t think of wallpaper as something that must cover a whole room. Today’s homeowners are getting creative by using it as an art form:
Frame a section of wallpaper as a large-scale print.
Create a panel or headboard feature.
Use wallpaper inside shelving or cabinets for a surprise pop of design.
These smaller applications allow you to use bold patterns without overwhelming the space and are ideal for experimenting with styles.
Wallpaper vs. Paint: Which One Is Better?
Both paint and wallpaper have their advantages. Here’s how they compare:
For high-impact design, wallpaper is the clear winner. For simple updates, paint may suffice.
Where to Find Wallpaper Inspiration
Looking for ideas before you commit? These resources can help:
Pinterest: Search “wallpaper ideas” for endless mood boards.
Interior Design Blogs: Many showcase real home makeovers.
Home Decor Magazines: Offer trend insights and product recommendations.
Retailer Galleries: Many brands like Wallism offer styled photos and customization tools so you can preview designs in different room settings.
Final Thoughts
Wallpaper is no longer just a design afterthought—it’s a centerpiece in modern interior style. From bold murals to subtle textures, it offers unmatched flexibility, impact, and personality. Whether you're refreshing a single room or transforming your entire home, wallpaper can help you tell your story on every wall.
As styles and materials continue to evolve, wallpaper is becoming more accessible and customizable than ever. With tools, resources, and inspiration from platforms like Wallism, homeowners can now confidently explore wallpaper as a design statement that brings beauty and character to their space.
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