The World of Wallpaper

Q: I heard wallpaper is making a comeback. Is this really something I should consider?

A: Believe it or not, this is one of the most debated topics I have with clients. I have found most people are initially resistant to the idea of wallpaper. Perhaps it’s because they have only recently finished the task of ridding their home from old and outdated wallpaper. Or maybe it’s because when they think of wallpaper they are transported to the 1970s with retro patterns in mustard, brown and harvest orange. Regardless of the reason, I want to reintroduce you to the world of wallpaper.

Today wallpaper comes in various motifs including: geometrics, florals, damasks, tone on tones, metallics, and murals. In almost all my designs, I incorporate wallpaper. Wallpaper can be one of the most transformative, dramatic and easiest changes you can make in a space. It can make a statement while elevating the overall design. My once hesitant clients always return to happily admit they were wrong about doubting my stance on wallpaper. The options, and design statements, are endless!

Q: I’m warming up to the idea of wallpaper, but I don’t want to make a huge commitment. What do you suggest?

A: Using wallpaper in a small area is a great way to test the waters and see if you’re ready to commit. If you’re not sure about it, introduce it in a small area like a powder room or guest bath. If you have a room that has wainscoting, try wallpapering the wall portion above like we did in this dining room. It breaks up the wall and keeps you from being overwhelmed with a entire room full of wallpaper.

You can experiment with applying it to the back of a bookcase or a single wall in a room. Built in bookcases can be a fun place to add a pop of color or interest. Instead of just painting the back, try wallpaper with a pattern. It will serve as a fabulous backdrop for your books, collections or family treasures. Another idea is to use wallpaper as an accent wall. We used a fun yet elegant oversized floral print in our client’s daughter’s bedroom. It’s exciting enough for a young pre-teen but sophisticated enough to last her until college. It beautifully ties the room together without having to make a huge commitment.

Q: I’ve heard of people putting wallpaper on a ceiling. Is that even possible?

A: Not only is it possible, it is one of my favorite ways to treat a ceiling! You would be amazed at how much this can do for a room. It can be very difficult for clients to envision. A texture on the ceiling can be stunning with the glow of a chandelier reflecting off of it. In this home, we added wallpaper in the coffers. This is a great idea for people who love their coffered ceilings but want to highlight them in a special way.

When selecting wallpaper that will be used on a ceiling, non directional is best. I like to use textural wallpapers. Ceiling wallpaper adds a level of drama and sophistication that paint alone simply cannot. It provides dimension and brings interest to an otherwise, underwhelming surface. It’s also a great way to get a lot of bang for your buck since an average ceiling does not require a lot of rolls. You will be amazed at how much this will do for your room.

Q: I’m worried about picking wallpaper that is too trendy. What should I stay away from and what should I look for?

A: This can depend on your personal taste and overall look you are trying to achieve. While many people want to stay away from trendy, it’s also important to make choices that satisfy your eye. Geometric patterns are diverse and fit within most design aesthetics. In this client’s home we chose a lattice bamboo print in shades of blue with a white background. This blends into their white cabinetry and ties in the blue throughout their coastal home. If committing to one color scares you, there are plenty of tone on tone patterns. In fact, there is even this same pattern in a tone on tone grass cloth.

Grass cloth is a great way to make a room feel warm and inviting. I have used it in many “man caves” and offices. Every roll is unique and the rugged look is ideal for masculine spaces.

Adding texture to walls can be a definite wow factor in any home.

This story was originally published October 30, 2015 at 10:45 AM with the headline "The World of Wallpaper."