5 Creative Wallpaper Ideas to Transform Your Space

You don’t have to go through an entire remodel or renovation to make a big transformation in your home. There are situations when a remodel is necessary – but what about subtle ways to create that va-va-voom without the pain of hiring a whole team? One of my favorite ways to do this is wallpaper! As a realtor who has seen it all, I know just how much of an impact a wallpaper installation can create. I’m a little wallpaper obsessed but take one look at the instant lift wallpaper creates and you’ll become a believer, too.

Wallpaper can instantly add an air of sophistication and style unlike anything else can. And this is one secret luxury hotels know all about. Haven’t you ever been delighted by a uniquely mesmerizing wallpaper in a hotel bathroom? Or you open the adjoining closet to find a black solid wallpaper that gives off an allure of grandeur? The world’s best hotels know how to create maximum impact with wallpaper. So I’m diving into how you can hone in on these secrets, too. Because we all love having that luxurious hotel feel right at home.

A Tidbit on the History of Wallpaper…

The use of wallpaper dates back to the 16th century. It was commonly used in merchant’s homes to line the insides of their cupboards or in smaller rooms. The earliest wallpapers were only in black and white and featured simple floral motifs or scenery. Flowers, birds and cornucopias overflowing with fruits were also common in the early designs.

These wallpapers were crafted by hand using block printing – a process that required each segment of the pattern to be transferred one at a time. This was a time-consuming and laborious process.

Wallpaper was such a luxury in 1712, Queen Anne even issued a property tax for it in England. A tax that was enforced for 124 years. During that time forging wallpaper was an offense punishable by death. Talk about a crime I wouldn’t dare try to get away with!

The wallpaper-making process was completely revolutionized by the invention of the first wallpaper printing machine in 1840. With this machine, wallpaper could be created in much less time – and was much more cost-effective. And just like that wallpaper was accessible to the masses.

By the beginning of the 20th century, wallpaper was everywhere. Hallways, kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms of everything from large estates to modest homes were lined with patterned decor.

Fast forward to today and wallpaper is having its moment again. It’s my personal opinion that no home is complete without it. And with top luxury brands like Hermes, Versace, Roberto Cavalli, Louis Vuitton and Christian Lacroix all expanding to include wallpapers in their collections, it’s clear I’m not the only one with wallpaper fever.

5 Creative Ways to Use Wallpaper to Spark Intrigue in Your Home

Photo From: Jenny Allen Listing 10 Ricki-Beth Lane

1. Creative Wallpaper Ideas: Be Unapologetically Bold with a Wallpapered Ceiling

Adding wallpaper to your ceiling is a unique way to add dimension to a space and create a jaw-dropping effect. This is a home decor technique that is blowing up in popularity – and for good reason. It adds a feeling of grandeur to any room and is a great way to incorporate a pattern or strong color that doesn’t fit elsewhere in the space.

Because adding wallpaper to the ceiling is more of a complicated process, it’s best left to the professionals. I know many DIYers love tacking a wallpaper project but getting it wrong on the ceiling can prove to be a costly mistake.

2. Creative Wallpaper Ideas: Frame It to Create a Stunning Wallpaper Mural

Create a notable focal point for your dining room or bedroom by framing a wallpaper mural. Or frame 3 separate panels of wallpaper. What I love about this technique is it transforms wallpaper into a work of art. It’s a great way to display that romantic floral motif wallpaper you love without having to commit to it for the entire wall.

A wallpaper mural is also a creative way to add a bit of drama to a room. You’re free to play around with patterns and color choices that otherwise might be too bold. Don’t worry too much about your wallpaper choice. Framed wallpaper can easily be swapped out if you decide it’s a no-go. Commitment “phobes” everywhere can rejoice!

Photo From: Jenny Allen Listing Cooper Beech Road

3. Creative Wallpaper Ideas: Break the Norm on Paneling

While most paneling covers the bottom third of a wall, wallpaper gives you the freedom to panel the wall as you like. I’ve seen gorgeous examples of wallpaper design covering the bottom two-thirds of a wall with the remaining top third painted in a bold color. Choose a paint color that allows the wallpaper design to pop.

You can also explore the powerful effect of black solid wallpaper paneling. Black is a color that can command attention in a room. Using black solid wallpaper can bring about the right type of energy for a home office – one that will put you in the right mindset to get it all done.

4. Creative Wallpaper Ideas: Highlight the Fireplace

If you’re someone who likes eye-catching home decor – this one’s for you. Let your imagination run wild by adding creative wallpaper above the fireplace. This allows the fireplace to become the centerpiece of your room. Feel free to choose a unique pattern, then you can incorporate elements to compliment the wallpaper elsewhere in the room.

Another option you have to create a wow effect is adding black solid wallpaper to the wall space above the fireplace while adding patterned wallpaper to the walls on either side. This keeps the fireplace area itself calm and neutral while allowing the surrounding areas to shine.

When adding wallpaper above the fireplace, it’s important to select high-quality, wipeable paper and prep the wall properly. This allows for your design to last longer without signs of wear and tear.

5. Creative Wallpaper Ideas: Elevate the Alcove

Accentuate the natural features of your home by adding wallpaper to your alcoves. This technique works for the recessed wall underneath your stairs, too! By working with your home’s architectural features you create an effect that is completely customized to your space. You are displaying your home’s unique design as the focal point.

I love using delicate wallpapers in alcoves to enhance a home’s features. This creates a stylish and sophisticated look that’s hard to ignore.

The possibilities for sprucing up your space with wallpaper are endless. What I enjoy the most about wallpaper design is it offers you the opportunity to be creative. You can let your style shine through and make your home your own.

If you are thinking about wallpaper installation for your home and don’t know where to start, reach out! I can put you in touch with some of the best contractors in the area who will make sure the finished look is flawless and attention-grabbing.

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