Wallpaper 101: Types, Styles, and Where to Use Them

Is wallpaper "in"? Yes — wallpaper is definitely “in” and has been for some time now. I love using wallpaper everywhere but here are a few of my favorite spots for it:

1/2 Baths. These are typically small spaces and often without natural light. Go bold here and make a statement - your guests will love it!

Dining room. Bring on the drama while you and your guests linger before, during, and after a good meal.

Bedrooms. Use it as an accent behind the bed or do a full wrap.

Cabinetry. Back a bookcase or other built-ins.

Ceilings. Look up - never forget your fifth wall!

Accent walls make a statement and are budget friendly....

...but full wraps on all of the walls are immersive and luxe.

There are several styles trending but, as I always say, do what you love, not just what others are doing.

• Textured wallpapers (grasscloth looks, linen-look, plaster/venetian plaster effects)

• Large-scale murals (landscapes, abstract art, oversized botanicals)

• Vintage + traditional prints (chintz, toile, block prints) mixed into modern spaces

• Moody colors (deep greens, inky blues, warm browns)

• Subtle pattern-on-pattern (tone-on-tone geometrics, soft stripes)

Types of wallpaper applications include:

Traditional

• Comes in rolls, installed with wallpaper paste

• Very durable and often the most “pro” result

• Best for: dining rooms, bedrooms, living rooms, hallways

Peel-and-Stick (Self-Adhesive/Removable)

• Like a giant sticker

• Great for renters or quick makeovers

• Can be trickier on textured walls and in humidity

• Best for: accent walls, offices, low-moisture spaces

Pre-Pasted Wallpaper

• Has paste already on the back (you activate it with water)

• Easier than traditional, but not as common for high-end papers

• Best for: DIY projects, lighter-use areas

Commercial-Grade Wallcoverings (Type II/Vinyl)

• Extra durable, washable, often textured

• Often used in hospitality and high-traffic homes

• Best for: mudrooms, kids spaces, hallways

There are incredible wallpaper murals available on the market. These come as panels that line up to create one big image. This bedroom got the real treatment and now my client's guests want to visit a little longer!

Have a little fun with wallpaper in your home or commercial space! It'll give you the "wow" moment you need in your life.