Gone are the days when wallpaper was a fussy, permanent fixture of our grandparents' homes. Today, wallpaper is back in a big way, offering an incredible tool to inject personality, color, and texture into any space. But with a universe of options, from bold patterns to subtle textures, how do you choose?
Choosing the right wallpaper designs for walls can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. This guide will walk you through the process, room by room, ensuring you find the perfect match to transform your house into a home.
Before You Begin: The Golden Rules of Wallpaper
Before you fall in love with a pattern, keep these three key factors in mind:
Mood & Function: What is the primary use of the room? Is it a space for relaxation (bedroom), socialising (living room), or focus (home office)? The wallpaper should support the room's intended atmosphere.
Scale & Light: A large, bold pattern can overwhelm a tiny, dimly lit room, while a small, intricate design might get lost in a vast, open-plan space. Consider the room's size and the amount of natural light it receives.
Type of Wallpaper: Modern wallpapers are more user-friendly than ever. For renters or those who love to change their decor frequently, the peel and stick wallpaper mural has been a game-changer. It offers stunning visuals without the long-term commitment of traditional pasted papers.
A Room-by-Room Guide to Perfect Wallpaper
The Living Room: Your Personal Style Statement
The living room is where you welcome guests and express your personality. It's the perfect place for a statement.
For a Sophisticated Vibe: Consider a textured wallpaper like grasscloth or a subtle vinyl that mimics fabric. This adds depth and warmth without overpowering the room.
For an Artistic Flair: For a truly contemporary and artistic statement, consider creating a feature wall with one of the many stunning abstract wall murals available. These can act as a large-scale piece of art, setting a modern and dynamic tone.
For a Modern & Orderly Look: A classic geometric pattern wallpaper can introduce a sense of rhythm and structure. From subtle chevrons to bold hexagons, geometric designs are versatile and timeless.
The Bedroom: Your Serene Sanctuary
Your bedroom should be a retreat for rest and relaxation. The wallpaper should promote a sense of calm.
Go Natural: Think soft, nature-inspired patterns. A delicate botanical print or a soft, watercolour landscape can create a peaceful ambiance.
Create a Focal Point: A fantastic way to add drama without sacrificing serenity is to install one of the beautiful flower wall murals behind your headboard. Choose one with a muted color palette for a dreamy, romantic feel or a large-scale photorealistic floral for a touch of modern luxury.
The Bathroom: Small Space, Big Impact
Yes, you can use wallpaper in the bathroom! It's a fantastic way to make a typically utilitarian space feel special.
Material is Key: The most crucial factor when choosing wallpaper for bathroom walls is the material. You must select a vinyl or specially treated "scrubbable" wallpaper that can withstand moisture and humidity. Avoid unsealed, natural papers.
Be Bold: Powder rooms and small bathrooms are the perfect places to experiment with bold colors and dramatic patterns. Since the space is small, a vibrant design won't feel overwhelming; instead, it will feel like a deliberate, jewel-box-like design choice.
The Kids' Room: A World of Imagination
Choosing wallpaper for a kids room is all about sparking joy and creating a space for play and imagination.
Fun and Functional: Opt for whimsical patterns, from cute animals to starry skies or world maps. Durability and ease of cleaning are also important, so a scrubbable finish is a wise choice.
Grow With Them: A child's tastes change quickly. This is where a peel and stick wallpaper mural truly shines. You can create an incredible feature wall of their favourite characters or a magical forest, knowing you can easily update it in a few years as their interests evolve.
The Home Office: Inspire Productivity
Your workspace should be a place that motivates and inspires focus.
Subtle Stimulation: You don't want anything too distracting. A subtle geometric pattern wallpaper in neutral tones can add visual interest without pulling your attention away from your work.
Inspiring Vistas: Consider a mural that inspires you. This could be a calming forest scene, a chic cityscape, or even an elegant abstract design. The goal is to create a backdrop that energizes you.
Final Pro-Tip: Always Sample!
Before you commit, order a sample of your chosen wallpaper. Tape it to the wall and observe it at different times of the day. This allows you to see how the colors and pattern interact with your room's unique lighting.
Wallpaper is a powerful design tool that can completely redefine a room. By considering the function, scale, and style of each space, you can confidently choose the perfect designs to reflect your unique taste. Happy decorating!
