Wallpaper has long been a favorite for adding texture, color, and personality to a room. With so many styles, colors, and patterns available today, wallpaper can completely transform the look and feel of any space in your home. While some may see wallpaper as a traditional choice for just accent walls, there are many creative ways to use it beyond its conventional applications. In this article, we will explore some innovative ways to use wallpaper creatively, from accent walls to unique furniture pieces, making it an easy way to refresh your home’s decor.
1. Accent Walls with Bold Patterns
The most common and classic way to use wallpaper is to create an accent wall. However, you can get creative with how you choose the wallpaper and where you place it. An accent wall can be used in any room of your home and allows you to introduce a bold pattern or color without overwhelming the entire space.
Choosing the Right Wall
The key to making an accent wall work is selecting the right wall. Typically, you want to choose a wall that is a focal point of the room, like the one behind the bed in a bedroom or the one where the TV is placed in the living room. This wall should draw attention but not overpower the other elements in the room.
Bold and Graphic Patterns
If you want to make a statement, consider using wallpaper with bold and graphic patterns, such as stripes, geometric shapes, or floral prints. These types of patterns add interest and energy to the room, and when used on a single accent wall, they won’t overwhelm the space. Bold patterns work well in spaces like living rooms, dining rooms, or entryways where you want to create a striking impression.
2. Wallpapering the Ceiling
One of the most creative ways to use wallpaper is to apply it to the ceiling. This unexpected application of wallpaper adds a unique touch to any room, turning the ceiling into a feature instead of just an overlooked surface. Wallpapered ceilings can make a room feel more intimate and cozy, or add a dramatic flair to a larger space.
Light and Subtle Designs
For a soft, calming atmosphere, consider using wallpaper with light colors and subtle designs, such as a delicate floral pattern or a metallic finish. This creates a peaceful, airy ambiance, perfect for bedrooms or bathrooms.
Bold Patterns for a Statement
Alternatively, you can choose bold, dramatic patterns for a ceiling that becomes the room’s focal point. This is particularly striking in rooms with high ceilings, such as living rooms or dining rooms. Choose patterns like large-scale florals or intricate geometric shapes for maximum impact.
3. Create a Feature Wall with Wallpaper Panels
Instead of using wallpaper on a single accent wall, you can create a feature wall by dividing the space into multiple panels. This technique adds visual interest and can be used to highlight specific areas of the room, such as a fireplace or a gallery wall.
Divide the Wall with Trim or Molding
Use trim or molding to divide the wall into sections, and apply different wallpaper designs or colors to each panel. This creates a gallery-like effect and gives you the freedom to mix and match patterns or colors. For example, you could use a bold floral design in one panel and a solid color or a subtle pattern in another.
Play with Texture and Color
If you want to create more visual interest, consider combining wallpaper with different textures and colors. For instance, you can use a glossy wallpaper panel next to a matte design, or mix a patterned wallpaper with a solid color for contrast. This will add depth to the wall and create a more dynamic, modern look.
4. Wallpaper on Furniture
While wallpaper is traditionally used for walls, it can also be applied creatively to furniture. You can give an old piece of furniture a fresh new look by covering it with wallpaper. This works especially well with items like dressers, side tables, bookshelves, and even cabinets.
Applying Wallpaper to Drawers and Cabinets
One of the easiest ways to use wallpaper creatively on furniture is by applying it to the drawers or cabinet doors of a piece. This adds a pop of pattern or color to furniture without overwhelming the entire piece. For example, you could cover the drawer fronts of a dresser with a floral or geometric print, giving the piece a unique, personalized touch.
Wallpapered Bookshelves
Bookshelves are another great place to use wallpaper creatively. Line the back of the shelves with wallpaper to create a bold, colorful backdrop for your books and decorative items. This works especially well with neutral-colored furniture or shelves, as the wallpaper will stand out and add a layer of depth to the space.
5. Create a Small Space Statement
If you’re working with a small room or a compact space like a hallway, using wallpaper can help create a sense of depth and personality. Instead of leaving the space bland and uninspiring, add a touch of creativity by using wallpaper to enhance the area.
Narrow Hallways and Corridors
Wallpaper is a great way to add personality to narrow hallways and corridors that might otherwise be overlooked. Choose a wallpaper design that complements the rest of your home’s decor while creating an inviting atmosphere. Lighter colors and soft patterns can make a narrow hallway feel more spacious, while bold patterns can add excitement and energy.
Powder Rooms and Small Bathrooms
Small spaces like powder rooms or bathrooms are the perfect place to experiment with fun and daring wallpaper designs. Since these rooms are typically small and don’t require a lot of material, you can take more risks with bolder colors and intricate patterns. Whether it’s a fun tropical print or a luxurious metallic finish, wallpaper in small spaces can make a huge impact.
6. Wallpaper in the Kitchen
While wallpaper may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about kitchen decor, it can be an excellent way to add warmth and style to this hardworking space. You can use wallpaper in various ways to create a focal point or enhance the overall atmosphere of your kitchen.
Backsplash with Wallpaper
One creative way to use wallpaper in the kitchen is by applying it as a backsplash. You can choose a design that complements your countertops and cabinetry or opt for a bold, eye-catching pattern. Vinyl wallpaper is a great option for this application, as it’s durable and easy to clean.
Cabinets and Pantry Doors
Wallpaper can also be applied to the doors of cabinets and pantry units for a fun and stylish touch. Whether you choose a classic design, like stripes, or something more adventurous, like a floral pattern, wallpapered cabinet doors can add personality and charm to your kitchen.
7. Layering Wallpaper with Other Decor
To add extra dimension and creativity to your wallpapered spaces, consider layering it with other decorative elements. Layering wallpaper with items like mirrors, framed artwork, or textiles can help create a rich, inviting environment.
Framed Wallpaper Pieces
Instead of covering an entire wall with wallpaper, you can create framed wallpaper art. Cut out sections of your wallpaper and frame them to hang on your walls as standalone pieces. This is a great way to incorporate your favorite wallpaper patterns without committing to covering an entire wall.
Wallpaper as a Backdrop for Art
Another creative use of wallpaper is to use it as a backdrop for a piece of art or photography. Whether you have a large painting or a gallery wall, using wallpaper behind your art can make the pieces stand out more and give the space an added touch of personality.
