When we think of decorating with wallpaper, our minds immediately turn to the living room. It makes sense, it's where we host guests, unwind with loved ones, and express ourselves. But wallpaper is no longer just a sofa backdrop. Some of the most striking design transformations take place in the unexpected corners of the house.
If you are prepared to open the doors of possibility on your interior design, it is time to look at wallpaper ideas for home beyond the living room. From bedroom wallpaper design ideas to powder room wallpaper design ideas, and even wallpaper for hallway design ideas, this guide will demonstrate how to bring character and texture to rooms you might not otherwise have thought of.
1. Turn Your Bedroom into a Fashionable Sanctuary
Let's begin with the most intimate space in your house, the bedroom. While the use of paint can revitalize, wallpaper can elevate your bedroom design to an entirely new level of elegance and warmth.
Bedroom Wallpaper Ideas
Design a feature wall behind the bed: Another favourite bedroom wallpaper design is to utilise wallpaper as a headboard alternative. Select a bold print or soothing pattern to ground the bed and establish the room.
Wallpaper on the ceiling: Yes, the ceiling! Attempt a delicate floral, damask, or embossed wallpaper above for a cocoon effect, particularly in areas with sloped or tray ceilings.
Pair wallpaper with your linens: To achieve a harmonious look, match the design of the wallpaper with your bedspread or drapes. A similar motif in both locations unifies everything with ease.
Wallpaper brings personality and character in layers, whether you're creating a romantic getaway, a sleek contemporary look, or something exuberantly eclectic.
2. Create a Wow Factor in the Powder Room
If you haven't ever thought about wallpapering your powder room, now's the moment. This diminutive but powerful space is a golden opportunity to get adventurous with daring design elements you might not dare use in larger spaces.
Powder Room Wallpaper Ideas:
Be bold and dramatic: Because the powder room is generally out of the way and never occupied for an extended period of time, it's an ideal space in which to experiment with dark florals, metallics, or far-flung prints.
Use wallpaper as art: Select a large-area mural or hand-painted design that works like a piece of art and makes a dramatic first impression.
Balance with fixtures: Complementing your wallpaper with streamlined, low-profile plumbing and fixtures can provide a luxury, hotel-style appearance.
Among the most effective powder room wallpaper ideas is to use bold pattern and color, it's a low-risk, high-design-reward space. Even a pop of wallpaper on one wall or the wall behind the vanity can totally transform the space.
3. Don't Forget the Hallway
Hallways tend to be treated as function only, a room they go through on the way to another. But that doesn't imply they should be neglected. On the contrary, paying attention to them can make the general ambiance of your home better.
Wallpaper for Hallway Ideas
Design visual flow: Backgrounds can direct the eye and create movement around your house. Employ vertical stripes or geometric motifs to lengthen or broaden tight corridors.
Gallery-style backdrop: If you enjoy family photographs or art prints, a quietly patterned wallpaper can serve as a chic background to frame your gallery wall.
Ceiling wallpaper: Give a surprise touch by wallpapering the ceiling, particularly if there is recessed lighting or architectural trim in the hallway.
Arched doors or doorways: Employ wallpaper to highlight architectural elements. Border doorways or room transitions for a designer look.
Another top wallpaper for hallway idea is to treat the hallway as if it were a separate room, give it personality with pattern, color, and texture.
4. Other Unexpected Places to Use Wallpaper
If you’re still eager to try something different, here are more underrated but impactful places where wallpaper can work magic:
1. Inside Closets or Wardrobes
Open your closet doors to a surprise, floral, striped, or whimsical wallpaper that adds joy to your daily routine. It’s a perfect weekend DIY project that adds instant charm.
2. Home Office Nooks
If you’ve carved out a workspace in your home, don’t leave it bland. Use wallpaper to create a focused, stylish work zone. A nature-inspired design can foster calm, while geometric prints boost creativity and energy.
3. Laundry Rooms
Yes, even laundry rooms deserve a design upgrade. Choose moisture-resistant wallpaper to stand up to humidity and pair it with sleek cabinetry for a fresh, clean vibe.
4. Stair Risers or Under-Stair Spaces
Wallpaper risers in repeating patterns to add interest to staircases. Or, use whimsical wallpaper to transform the empty area beneath the stairs into a reading nook or storage area.
Tips for Picking Wallpaper for Less Traditional Spaces
Pick the proper type: Apply vinyl or moisture-resistant wallpaper to very damp spaces such as powder rooms and the kitchen.
Remember scale: Tight spaces benefit from small patterns, but open hallways and bedrooms can accommodate larger prints.
Lighting is everything: In dark areas such as hallways, use lighter hues or metallic finishes that reflect light.
Temporary versus permanent: For renters or decorating commitment-phobes, removable peel-and-stick wallpaper is a lifesaver.
—
Muriel Sackey
Owner & Designer, Kusuum Home
kusuumhome.com
