5 Bold Ways to Make a Statement with Wallpaper

If the word “wallpaper” makes you think of your grandmother’s house, you’re not alone. But, used correctly, many interior designers say wallpaper is a powerful design tool. There’s no better way to add pattern, color, and personality to a space in one fell swoop. Though more permanent than paint, wallpaper has a bigger impact. And it’s versatile. Install it in a small powder room, use it on the ceiling in a dining room, or as an accent wall in a bedroom. With endless options including textured surfaces, colorful graphics, and traditional florals, here are five examples of decorating with wallpaper done right. Textured Wallpaper in a Bathroom Images by Tom Hunter Photography. 108 S. Croft Avenue Beverly CenterMiracle Mile, California The deep charcoal color of the textured wallpaper in this bathroom sets a sleek and sophisticated tone. While dark, the wallpaper has a reflective quality that amplifies the lighting and contrasts the decor accents nicely. As An Accent Wall in a Bedroom 153 Charles Street, #9 New York, New York Behind the bed, this large-scale cherry blossom motif wallpaper accentuates the Japanese-inspired headboard and is the focal point in this bedroom. Abstract Wallpaper in a Living Room 278 Main Street Sag Harbor Village, New York The abstract marbled agate pattern in the wallpaper in this eye-catching living room is reminiscent of moving water. The modern wallpaper plays off of the traditional moldings, furnishings, and artwork in the room making it feel current. Subtle and Elegant Stripes in an Entryway 52 Peacock Lane Lattingtown, New York The tone-on-tone stripes of this wallpaper are subtle enough not to be overpowering, but add an elegant bit of interest to this entryway. And stripes never go out of style. On the Ceiling in a Dining Room 6855 Spyglass Lane Rancho Santa Fe, California Talk about bold. With its fabric insets, floral patterned walls, and rich red and gold hues, this dining room takes the cake on statement making. Whereas the unlikely use of wallpaper on the ceiling might be a statement in itself in another room, in this dining room it adds warmth and balances the striking walls. —by Jacqueline Kuron Feeling inspired to make a bold change? Search available properties for your next home and add some wallpaper.