How To Choose the Right Wallpaper
Wallpaper has made a huge comeback in interior design over the past few years. Today, wallpaper offers a stunning range of styles, patterns, and textures that can completely transform a room. But how do you go about choosing the right wallpaper for your space? With so many options available, making a decision can be overwhelming. Here we’ll explore some helpful tips to guide you through the process of selecting the perfect wallpaper for your home.
1. Consider the Room’s Function and Size
Start by thinking about the purpose of the room. Is it a high-traffic area like the hallway or kitchen, or a more relaxed space like a bedroom or living room? The function of the room will affect the type of wallpaper you choose.
High-Traffic Areas: For spaces like kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways, go for durable wallpapers that are easy to clean. Vinyl wallpapers are a great option as they are moisture-resistant and washable.
Low-Traffic Areas: Bedrooms, offices, and dining rooms offer more flexibility. You can opt for more delicate, textured, or artistic designs since these spaces aren’t exposed to as much wear and tear.
Additionally, the size of the room plays a major role in your choice. If you're working with a small room, light-colored wallpapers or subtle patterns will help make the space feel larger. For larger rooms, you can experiment with bolder patterns, darker shades, or even accent walls.
2. Match the Wallpaper to Your Style
Wallpaper can set the tone for the entire room. Whether you prefer a modern, traditional, minimalist, or eclectic style, there’s a wallpaper out there that can reflect your taste.
Modern Style: Opt for wallpapers with geometric shapes, stripes, or metallic finishes. Minimalist rooms often look great with solid colors, subtle textures, or simple designs.
Traditional Style: Floral, damask, or paisley patterns work well in spaces with traditional decor. Vintage-inspired wallpapers also complement classic furniture pieces.
Eclectic Style: If you're someone who enjoys mixing and matching different design elements, try wallpapers with bold prints, animal patterns, or artistic illustrations.
It’s important to consider how the wallpaper will interact with the other elements in your room, such as furniture, curtains, and flooring. The wallpaper should harmonize with the rest of your decor, not clash with it.
3. Choose the Right Color Palette
The color of your wallpaper can dramatically affect the mood of a room. Lighter shades, such as pastels or whites, make a room feel airy and spacious, while darker hues can add warmth and create a cozy atmosphere.
Neutral Colors: Shades of beige, gray, and white are timeless and versatile. Neutral wallpapers work well in almost any room and allow you to play with bolder furniture and accent colors.
Bold Colors: If you want to make a statement, choose vibrant colors like navy blue, emerald green, or deep red. Just be sure to balance these with neutral furniture and accents to prevent the room from feeling too overwhelming.
Metallic Finishes: Gold, silver, and other metallic tones can add sophistication and a touch of luxury to a room. Metallic wallpaper can be perfect for feature walls or accent areas.
4. Think About Texture
The texture of the wallpaper can play a huge role in how it feels in the room. Some wallpaper types have raised or embossed patterns, while others may feature subtle textures like linen or silk. Texture can add depth to a room and enhance the tactile experience.
Textured Wallpaper: If you're looking to create a more luxurious, elegant feel, textured wallpaper such as grasscloth, silk, or linen can bring a sophisticated touch to your space.
Flat Wallpaper: For a more modern or understated look, flat wallpapers (without raised patterns) are a great choice. These types of wallpaper allow the color and pattern to stand out more, providing a sleek and contemporary finish.
5. Consider the Installation Process
Not all wallpapers are created equal when it comes to installation. Some are peel-and-stick, while others require paste or glue. If you're looking for something more temporary, peel-and-stick wallpaper is a great option—it's easier to apply and remove without leaving major damage behind. Traditional wallpapers may require a bit more effort but tend to last longer.
Before making a decision, think about how long you want the wallpaper to stay up. If you're renting or just want a temporary change, peel-and-stick wallpaper might be the best choice. For a more permanent solution, opt for wallpapers that need paste or glue.
6. Budget Considerations
Wallpaper can vary significantly in price depending on the material, brand, and design. High-end wallpapers made from materials like silk or grasscloth tend to be more expensive, while vinyl or non-woven wallpapers are often more affordable.
Before making your final choice, establish a budget for your wallpaper project. There are many wallpaper calculators you can find online to give you a sense of how many rolls you may need and what the cost will be.
7. Try Out Samples First
Before committing to a full room of wallpaper, it’s helpful to try out samples. Most wallpaper stores offer sample sizes, so you can see how the wallpaper looks on your walls in different lighting conditions. This step can help you avoid surprises and ensure that you’re happy with the choice.
It’s also a good idea to test the wallpaper alongside your room’s furniture, curtains, and flooring. This way, you can visualize how everything will come together before making a final decision.
Conclusion
Choosing the right wallpaper can completely transform the look and feel of a room, so it’s important to take your time and consider all factors—room function, style, color, texture, and budget—before making a decision. Whether you’re going for a statement wall or covering the entire room, wallpaper has the potential to add personality, warmth, and sophistication to your home. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to selecting the perfect wallpaper for your space! We’ll take care of the rest!