How to choose the right wallpaper for your home

The walls in your abode deserve more than the vanilla treatment. If you want to make an attractive aesthetic statement but have decided the answer isn’t paint, consider wallpaper, which remains surprisingly popular as a decorative option. “Homeowners who enjoy making design decisions and spending time on interior decorating projects are good candidates for wallpaper,” says Ricky Allen, marketing director for Ever Wallpaper. “Wallpaper can be used to create an entirely new look or atmosphere in a room and add visual interest and texture to the space.” Wallpaper is particularly suitable for those who appreciate the unique design possibilities it offers and who are not afraid to commit to a longerlasting design statement, according to Robert David Orr, owner and senior editor of RemodelReality.com. Popular wallpaper patterns and styles today include: Botanical/floral motifs, which can create a sophisticated or romantic feel and bring a touch of nature indoors. Textured wallpaper, which can add depth and interest to a room without being visually overwhelming or imposing. Geometric designs, “which can introduce visual interest into a room, creating either a bold statement or a touch of elegance,” explains Artem Kropovinsky, an interior designer and founder of New York City-based interior design studio Arsight.

Nature-inspired themes, which seamlessly bring the outdoors inside for a look with instant tranquility. Abstract concepts, “including abstract patterns that can infuse a room with individuality, resulting in a unique and fashionable appearance,” Kropovinsky notes. Wallpaper works well in many rooms in the home, especially living rooms, dining rooms and bedrooms. “You can utilize wallpaper to establish a focal point in the living room, for example. In the bedroom, wallpaper can fashion a welcoming and restful space,” says Kropovinsky. “And because kitchens experience heavy foot traffic, durable, easy-to-clean wallpaper can be a good choice.” Be cautious about applying wallpaper in high-moisture areas like bathrooms or busy kitchens, however, where it could be more vulnerable to damage or premature peeling. Andre Kazimierski, CEO of Chicago-headquartered Improovy, is a fan of certain types of peel-andstick wallpaper, your easiest and quickest route to a room redo. “When choosing wallpaper, I wouldn’t typically recommend using different kinds for different walls within the same room. You risk creating too busy of a look that overwhelms the space. Instead, choose wallpaper the same way you choose a paint color – select one that harmonizes or contrasts the existing decor themes and colors within a room,” Kazimierski suggests. Give careful thought to the size, existing decor and lighting of the space, too. It’s okay to add wallpaper to one wall or area adjacent to a painted wall/area but ensure that the hues and patterns complement each other. “To mesh wallpaper with the room, select a color palette that matches or complements the existing fabrics and décor,” Orr continues. Don’t be afraid to dabble with bolder colors and patterns but try to maintain the overall aesthetic of the room or area. “Always get samples to see how the wallpaper looks in your space and lighting conditions prior to making a final decision and finding out you hate it,” cautions Orr. Additionally, before committing to wallpaper, carefully consider the cost of materials and how much time and effort will be involved in the project. Also, think about the room’s purpose, the chosen wallpaper’s durability and the effort required for installation and eventual removal. “Applying wallpaper can be a really rewarding DIY project for those with patience and attention to detail,” adds Orr. “But if you are new to wallpapering or working with challenging materials, hiring a professional is probably a better option to make sure it gets done right.”