Gingham is having a moment. This interior trend started in the fashion world, but in the past few years, the playful checked fabric has become big news for bedrooms, too.

Gingham bedding is now all over the high street, and it's a bedding trend that shows no signs of waning anytime soon.

In fact, this is a bedroom trend that's rapidly growing, with interior stylists and decor experts saying that gingham is fast becoming one of this year's most popular children's bedroom ideas.

Yep, gingham is no longer just for the bed. In playrooms and bedrooms alike, the checks are now taking to the walls, and I personally think it's a great look if you're considering decorating or redecorating your kids' bedroom.

Whether you're pondering girls' bedroom ideas, boys' bedroom ideas, or looking to create a gender neutral nursery, as Sophie Habboo and Jamie Laing recently demonstrated in an Instagram post that shared their newly decorated nursery, gingham – and, in particular, gingham wallpaper – is a look that just *works*.

The gingham kids' bedroom trend is also a look that can work for all ages, and, as our style experts are about to explain, this anti-trend style has timeless longevity.

Is gingham one of this year's fastest growing kids' bedroom trends?

'As seen in Sophie Habboo’s baby nursery, gingham wallpaper is becoming an increasingly popular nursery choice,' says Mike Allison, nursery furniture expert at Silver Cross.

'This year, we've seen a significant rise in the popularity of gingham wallpaper alongside a growing demand for gingham textiles and soft furnishings,' agrees Lauren Kavanagh, art director at wallpaper brand Hovia

'We’re definitely seeing gingham used more and more in nurseries and children’s rooms,' confirms Jessica Hanley, founder and CEO of bedding and interiors brand Piglet in Bed.

'It feels like part of a wider shift away from overly themed, childlike spaces, towards rooms that are calmer and more versatile in the long run,' says Jessica. 'Spaces that grown-ups love just as much as kids do.'

Why is gingham such a good look for a kid's bedroom?

Clearly, newlyweds Sophie and Jamie are sold on the playful checks, but why is it that gingham works *so* well in kids' bedrooms?

'Gingham strikes a balance between playful and timeless,' explains Jessica. 'It feels familiar, nostalgic and comforting, yet structured and grown-up enough to work well beyond the early years.'

'It's a timeless pattern that feels both nostalgic and fresh, making it a versatile choice for modern nurseries and children's bedrooms,' agrees Laura.

'This style is simple, calming and incredibly nostalgic, often evoking memories of the past,' agrees Mike. 'Plus, it's particularly suited to nature-inspired or gender-neutral nursery themes.'

'There’s something inherently joyful and slightly whimsical about gingham,' adds Jessica, 'it's a pattern that’s been loved for generations. It also brings colour and character to a room without ever feeling over the top.'

How to style the look

And, of course, that leads us on to how to style the look. This is a trend that you can make as bold or muted as you like by playing with colour, scale, and the pieces you pair with your gingham walls.

If you're looking to create a more muted look, then 'Sophie’s nursery is a great success,' say interior stylists Laurie Davidson and Aurélien Farjon of the @stylemakerspresent. 'She has definitely achieved the serene and timeless feel she was after through a lovely Scandi scheme with muted tones, light wood furniture accents.'

'I particularly like the playful mix of patterns Sophie has used,' says Laurie, 'from the gingham on the wallpaper, chequerboard on the rug, zigzag on the curtains, and stripes on the rocking horse.'

'Muted shades, such as sage green or pale blue, paired with bold patterns, checkered rugs and striped storage units, create a cosy, nostalgic feel without disrupting the calming ambience of the room,' agrees Mike.

'Soft, muted colours such as beige, sage green, dusty blue and blush pink create a calming scheme that can grow with your child,' agrees Laura, but if you're happy to go bolder, 'butter yellow offers a cheerful, on-trend alternative.'

'I used our Piglet in Bed Dusty Blue Gingham wallpaper in my little boy’s bedroom,' says Jessica, 'paired with our playful illustrated Mushrooms wallpaper. It’s transformed the room into a beautiful space we both love spending time in.'

And don't forget that the scale of check you opt for can also affect the room's mood.

'There are lots of options around with different scales of pattern,' says Aurélien, 'you could go for a very small scale like Sophie, giving a subtle and discreet pattern, or you could opt for the larger scale option for a bolder and more impactful look.'

If you're using a brighter colour, then Laura says that 'a medium-scale gingham check is often the easiest to work with, as smaller checks can feel busy on large wall surfaces. For a more contemporary feel, opt for a larger-scale pattern.'

Then, 'pair gingham wallpaper with complementary blocks of colour through bedding and soft furnishings,' says Laura. 'Stripes and delicate floral prints also work beautifully alongside gingham, helping to create a layered, cottage-inspired look.'

'For bedding, either echo the wallpaper colour for a soft, tonal look, or contrast with complementary shades,' advises Jessica, 'for example, soft green with blush pink, or dusty blue with buttery yellow. Keep everything else quite simple and natural: linen, rattan, light or dark wood, and subtle detailing in the furniture keep the space feeling balanced.'

Or, 'to complete the scheme, consider incorporating vintage or vintage-inspired furniture,' suggests Laura. 'Pieces such as wardrobes and chests of drawers add character, especially when updated with soft paint colours or new hardware for a fresh, modern finish.'

However you style it, I think gingham is *the* choice for a stylish kids' bedroom in 2026. Are you tempted to give checks a try?

We might only be a matter of weeks into 2026, but there’s no denying that a retro resurgence is among us. From the acclaimed Stranger Things finale, to the highly anticipated return of Rivals later this year, the 80s is dominating pop culture. And it seems to be making its way back into our homes, too.

Everyone knows that trends are circular, so it’s no surprise that 80s-inspired interiors are set to be one of the home decor trends taking over in 2026. Whether you welcome back the kitchen hatch with open arms, or simply invest in some statement lamps, there are many ways to embrace this retro trend. But, according to experts, 80s wallpaper is really having a moment.

‘The 80s-inspired retro wallpaper trend is part of a broader decor revival that will continue into 2026,’ explains Caroline Woolmer, Head of Product Design at Lust Home. In fact, you’ve only got to look at some of the biggest trends of 2025 – like pattern drenching and colour capping – to see that our appetite for bold interiors is growing. And 80s wallpaper is a great way to embrace this.

‘2026 will not see a full return to original 80s styles, but rather updated and reinterpreted versions,’ adds Caroline. ‘It’s a comeback driven by nostalgia and expressive design trends; wallpapers and patterns trending again, but with a modern, curated twist.’

Thanks to last year’s abundance of maximalist motifs and bold trends, many of us have a newfound sense of confidence to take a trend and twist it in a way that will fit the needs of our home.

'80s-inspired wallpaper is one of the standout revivals this year. The nostalgic trend draws people in with its comforting, familiar patterns, while bold colours and playful motifs celebrate individuality,’ explains James Mellan-Matulewicz, CEO and Creative Director at Bobbi Beck. ‘The result is a space that feels fun and full of character, through playful geometry, unexpected colour combinations and graphic shapes.’

But how can you adapt this retro look to fit into your home? I asked the experts for their top tips.

How to style retro wallpaper in your home

‘Wallpaper sets the tone for the whole room,’ explains Victoria Robinson, style and trend expert at Hillarys. ‘Retro shapes and colour inject energy and personality, creating spaces that feel alive and inspiring.’ Here’s how to get it right.

1. Use wallpaper intentionally

‘Today’s retro wallpaper isn’t a direct replica of the past. Designers are reworking 80s influences with cleaner lines and refined colour palettes,’ explains James. ‘This allows geometric shapes, abstract patterns and vibrant tones to feel contemporary rather than overwhelming or dated.’

Some wallpaper options might include a toned-down take on retro designs, lending itself to full-scale pattern drenching. However, others might be best suited to use on one single accent wall. Either way, be intentional with how you use your paper and let its personality shine.

2. Curate your colour palette

If you want to inject some fun patterns into a more neutral home, the bold palette of the 80s might seem a little daunting. ‘In the 80s, popular colours were often neon or pastel, but if you’re after a modern twist, pick toned down versions,’ suggests Caroline. ‘Soft blush, teal, or muted lime work well.’

And remember, many wallpaper designs will have made this call for you. ‘With many designs now available in customised colourways, it’s possible to introduce this retro style in a softer way, blending colour into a scheme rather than making a bold statement,’ adds James.

3. Keep surrounding decor subtle

‘The retro patterns of the 80s are playful, often surprising, and visually engaging; they activate a space emotionally, making it feel more alive,’ explains Caroline. So, it’s important that you don’t lose this sense of interest.

‘To create harmony, echo colours from the wallpaper in cushions, throws or lamps, which ties the scheme together beautifully,’ suggests Victoria.

4. Pair with complementary motifs

80s-inspired design is all about having fun, so don’t be afraid to lean into the look completely. ‘Look for sculptural shapes, glossy or lacquered finishes and touches of glass or chrome that reflect the era while allowing the wallpaper to take centre stage,’ says James.

Complete the look

Will you embrace retro wallpaper in your home this year?

Arguably one of the most exciting rooms of the house to decorate, there is nothing like the magic of conjuring up children's room ideas, no matter what stage of childhood your little ones are at.

Whether your kids are tiny and new so you're looking for nursery ideas, or if they're a bit older and you're looking for ideas that will last them into their tweens, a designer that will work in both spaces (and every age between) is British Arts & Crafts aficionado, William Morris.

Synonymous with patterns such as Strawberry Thief and Willow Boughs, you'll have seen his work across textiles, wallpaper, artwork and beyond, and the staying power of his work in modern homes today is a true testament to his classic designs. Additionally, with his founding company, Morris & Co., reimagining his work in a more contemporary way and partnering with a plethora of high-street names to make his designs more accessible, it has become one of the most-loved brands to decorate with.

I've asked the experts for their top tips on how to use William Morris prints in a children’s bedroom so you can transform their sleep space into a sanctuary that is both contemporary and classic, yet super stylish too.

1. Bring softness to the room with fabric

One of the first ways you could use William Morris prints in a children’s bedroom, is via fabric, swathed over a cot or bed canopy-style.

There's something so theatrical yet comforting about an over-bed canopy and using a beautiful William Morris fabric will bring a sense of child-like whimsy to the space.

Jodie Cooper, Acting Lead Designer, Morris & Co comments on how ideal William Morris prints are for kids bedrooms, as children were often at the forefront of his designs.

'William Morris designs work wonderfully for a child’s room, since he was a designer and poet who believed in the rich, artistic inner worlds of children, saying "It is the childlike part of us that produces works of the imagination. When we were children time passed so slow with us that we seemed to have time for everything."’

'Designs like Willow Boughs, will always prove popular for kids’ rooms. In fact, Morris got the idea for this design after going on a walk with his own daughter, May Morris, where they passed a Weeping Willow and they both marvelled at its beauty,' Jodie explains.

Other ways to use William Morris fabrics in a children's room is to make cushion covers, which could be layered up on the bed, or piled up on the floor to make a cosy reading corner.

You could also use it to cover seat pads or window-seat cushions, tying a whole room scheme together.

2. Adorn walls with wallpaper

Another easy yet affective way to use William Morris prints in a children’s bedroom, is with bedroom wallpaper ideas. Suitable for all ages, you can choose to paper just a single wall to create a feature, or opt to drench the room in pattern, papering from floor to ceiling, wall to wall.

Melanie Adams, Global Head of Wallpaperdirect comments, 'William Morris wallpaper patterns bring timeless charm and a sense of storytelling to the walls of a child’s bedroom.'

'Playful prints like Brer Rabbit, which features characters from a 19th-century children’s book, make the perfect wallpaper for a child’s room - rich in character yet subtle enough to grow with the child.'

'When we decorate our homes, we want our spaces to reflect who we are, and heritage brands like Morris & Co. continue to be popular with our customers for this very reason. They help create rooms full of personality, but in a timeless way, so you never tire of the space. This is particularly important in a child’s bedroom, where the decor becomes a supportive backdrop for self-discovery and growth,' Melanie advises.

3. Invest in a statement headboard

If your kids are a little older, perhaps in a single or even double bed, then headboard ideas are a great way to bring William Morris prints in a children’s bedroom.

Adam Black, co-founder, Button & Sprung advises, 'The smart choice when decorating a child’s room is to focus on longevity – a scheme which will grow with the child and see them through the early years into teenagers and young adults.'

'Nurseries and toddler bedrooms are traditionally highly themed but often require changing after just a few years. By thinking about clever designs which can capture your little one’s imagination but adapt as they grow you not only save money in the long run but decorate in a more sustainable way.'

'William Morris prints offer a perfect way to add colour, texture and personality to a child’s space,' Adam explains. 'The bed is the largest investment piece in the bedroom and by using upholstery you can create a focus piece which will inspire a wider room scheme.'

'Upholster a bed or headboard in a fabric which is timeless, something that William Morris does very well, and then accessorise it with items which are easier to switch out as the child grows such as cushions, lamps and rugs. A varied and patterned fabric also allows for the exploration of different colours schemes over the years – from neutral tones to bright colour pop. As your child grows, they may feel inspired by certain colours and have a say in the scheme of their room as well.'

However if you're looking for a more flexible and less permanent way to add William Morris prints to the bedroom, then opting for something like the beautiful Habitat x Morris & Co bedding range in one of his designs is a great compromise.

4. Opt for elegant window dressings

The next of our ideas for how to use William Morris prints in a children’s bedroom is via window dressing ideas. As any parent can attest, having curtains or blinds over your children's windows that will not only look great but also block out that late-night or early-morning sun, will pay dividends. William Morris' designs have the ideal pattern repeat to work perfectly for blackout, full-length curtains, or smart Roman blinds.

Jojo Barr, Founder of House Nine Design loves to incorporate William Morris designs in her clients homes, and finds them most versatile in children's bedrooms.

'William Morris prints can be used effortlessly in a kids' room, through bedding, cushions, or throw blankets as the rich colours, intricate florals, and natural motifs really add a classy whimsical feel. The designs offer a fab pop of pattern without overwhelming the room.'

'Choose one bold pattern or opt for a more subtle, softer look, choose curtains with his muted floral or botanical designs. These can blend well with neutral walls and create a sense of warmth and nature,' she advises.

5. Treat feet with a rug

If you're looking for a way to easily add a touch of William Morris prints in a children’s bedroom, without going the whole hog, a bedroom rug is a great way to do it.

Ideal for making the room cosier in the colder months, making the floor softer for little ones to crawl on, and help with sound proofing too (your downstairs neighbours will thank you for it!), a rug featuring a stunning William Morris design could be the finishing touch you needed.

When it comes to what size of rug to choose, bigger is always better, so look to opt for one that can be placed right up to and under furniture pieces to not only make the room feel more expensive, but bigger too.

6. Add finishing touches with accessories

Our final idea for using William Morris prints in a children’s bedroom, is via an array of accessories. From bedroom lighting to artwork, adding little touches of the designers work will elevate your kids room to a smart and sophisticated, yet whimsically traditional haven.

Jojo says, 'If you want to keep things simple in a kids room, add smaller pieces of Morris-inspired furniture, like a chair or table with floral upholstery or intricate woodwork. These small touches make a big impact.'

'Or, consider framing vintage Morris designs or reproductions of his famous works. Hanging them at child-friendly heights adds both colour and culture to the room,' she explains.

Which is the most popular William Morris pattern for a kids room?

Jojo says, 'Beautiful, floral and nature-inspired designs, such as Strawberry Thief or Willow Bough, are the best William Morris patterns to use in a children’s room.'

Jodie agrees, adding, 'Other designs within Morris & Co. that work well are Newill, where owls and pheasants happily perch on scrolling leaves, as well as Meadow Sweet – there’s something nostalgic and inspiring for a child in its simple, Arts and Crafts style.'

However, Brer Rabbit has also proved popular for nurseries and younger children's spaces, while Pimpernel and Sunflower could be better suited to older children.

Where is the best place to shop for Morris & Co. pieces for a kids room?

Jodie says, 'The best place to shop for Morris & Co pieces is on our website. If you want to see the designs in person, you can also find your local stockist here.'

But as well as shopping directly from the source, there are plenty of high street brands that have partnered with Morris & Co, to bring you William Morris designs across everything from furniture to tableware.

Try the Habitat x Morris & Co collaboration for beautiful bedding, lighting and even fragrance, or Swyft for armchairs and ottomans adorned in Morris & Co. fabrics. Ruggable has a great collection of Morris & Co. rugs, while King & McGaw has a fab range of framed William Morris prints.

Check out our selection of top William Morris buys below.

Do you have a favourite William Morris design you've earmarked for your children's bedroom?

Heritage paint and wallpaper brand, Little Greene, has launched a new collection of wallpapers in collaboration with the National Trust with a playful nostalgic edge perfect for a kid’s bedroom.

Whilst the stylish wallpapers can be used in all sorts of rooms throughout the house – from bathrooms to breakfast nooks – I think they become the star of the show in a children's bedroom or nursery idea.

The new ‘Storybook Papers' collection features eight wallpaper ideas, each inspired by artefacts conserved in National Trust properties across the UK – from vintage children's toys to decorative fabrics and original artworks by children's author Beatrix Potter.

Little Greene x National Trust ‘Storybook Papers' wallpaper collection

The two prints that instantly caught my eye are the Little Greene ‘Animal Kingdom’ wallpaper in 'Atomic' – a vintage twist on a jungle safari theme featuring colourful elephants, ostriches, tigers, and penguins – and ‘Broad Stripe’ – a bold pea-green striped wallpaper that is both classic and contemporary.

However, if you're new to wallpapering, there are some tricks worth knowing to ensure you get this look right. I asked Ruth Mottershead, Creative Director at Little Greene, and interior stylist Laurie Davidson for their top tips on incorporating these two wallpapers into a decorating scheme that looks playful and stylish, rather than childish.

How to style 'Animal Kingdom' wallpaper

First up, think beyond just the wallpaper. You'll need paint that works with your chosen paper, and accessories that complement or contrast to tie the whole room together.

'For a gentler more harmonious scheme, take the ‘base’ or background colour of your wallpaper pattern onto your ceiling and woodwork' explains Ruth. Little Greene's 'Slaked Lime - Mid' paint is the perfect neutral match with the 'Animal Kingdom' collection.

'Or for a more maximalist approach consider taking the deepest or brightest colour from within the pattern onto your painted surfaces' Ruth suggests. Primary shades ‘Atomic Red’ and ‘Smalt Blue’ contrast perfectly.

Interiors stylist Laurie explains you can also incorporate this paint trick into a feature wall idea by using coordinating paint colours on three of the walls and only wallpapering one.

'If you have your heart set on a particular wallpaper but it's a bit more expensive than you'd like, look at how you can still incorporate it without having to buy too many rolls' shares Laurie. 'If you're only using it on one wall, make sure it's a wall you see the most, or one that you'll see as you pass by outside'.

Or, 'Why not use it above a picture rail around the top of your room, which is a smaller area to cover?' Laurie adds.

You can then source accessories – such as bedding, a bedside lamp, or furniture – that pulls out some of your favourite colours from within the wallpaper. Or consider painting existing bedroom furniture in one of your coordinating paint shades.

How to style 'Broad Stripe' wallpaper

Depending on how you style it, striped wallpaper can be 'fun and graphic' or 'elegant and regal', says Ruth.

To add more playful fun, 'Consider a striped ceiling or add floor-to-ceiling stripes in an attic bedroom for a fun way to exaggerate the angles of the space' suggests Ruth.

'Then there are smaller ways to include it, such as in the panels of wardrobe doors or lining the back of shelves in a cabinet' adds Laurie. 'And, if you have any leftover, why not use it to line drawers so that none goes to waste'.

You could pair the 'Broad Stripe' wallpaper with a tonal green such as Little Greene's 'Pea Green' for a timeless look, but I love it paired with a contrasting colour, like Little Greene's 'Heat' for a quirky edge. Then add accessories in your contrasting colour to tie the room together.

Whether you're looking for small children's bedroom ideas or have a larger room to decorate, I think the 'Storybook Papers' offer plenty of inspiration. Maybe even enough to consider getting the wallpaper paste out this weekend!

Plus, as a contribution from the sale of every roll of Little Greene wallpaper will go to support the National Trust’s conservation work, not only will your little one benefit from a newly decorated bedroom, but you'll be helping to ensure Britain’s historic houses, gardens, and open spaces can be enjoyed for generations to come.

In a world where everything is getting more and more expensive, being able to decorate yourself can save you some serious pennies. And if you’re looking to give your walls some TLC, knowing how to remove wallpaper yourself can be a handy skill to have.

Although there are so many amazing wallpaper ideas out there, it’s nice to be able to mix things up every now and then - especially as wallpaper trends chop and change all the time. And while you could wallpaper over wallpaper if you really don’t want to stretch your DIY fingers, experts don’t recommend this.

As Sarah McCann, print and product expert at Voyage Maison, explains, ‘If you're considering giving your home a wallpaper update, the first step you must tackle is to remove the existing wallpaper. While it may be tempting to apply the new wallpaper directly on top, it's important to take off the current layers first. This will help prevent frustrating creases and air bubbles from forming during the application process.’

What you'll need

Step-by-step

1. Prepare the area

Just as you need to prepare yourself and your home for painting a room, you also need to do the same when removing wallpaper. After all, it can be a messy (and dangerous) business if you don’t take precautions.

For starters, you need to prepare the area. Adam Clark at My Local Toolbox suggests, ‘Protect all floors and furniture with either drop cloths or old sheets. Painter tape is a great way to protect electrical outlets, skirting boards, and/or panelling.’

To go one step further, Tim Warren, a DIY expert from Adkwik, advises, ‘Turn off the electricity in the room where you will be working, as water or steam may come into contact with plug sockets or switches.’

To make things as easy as possible and to ensure you won’t have to get mould out of fabric later down the line, you should also aim to move furniture out of the room - especially if you plan on using a steamer to remove wallpaper.

If using chemical wallpaper remover, you should wear gloves and eye protection to avoid any injury or irritation. And if you’re on the shorter side, you might want to keep a ladder (and someone to hold the ladder) close by.

2. Perforate the wallpaper

After preparing yourself and the area, you may feel inclined to get cracking as soon as possible. But there’s another step to take before you can really start stripping wallpaper - especially if you want to protect your walls and make the process as easy as possible.

Adam explains, ‘Using the correct tool, puncture small holes in the wallpaper.’ So, you can use a scoring tool like this GoodHome Wallpaper Scoring Tool from B&Q for this step.

You must be careful here, though, as you could damage your wall. ‘Only use enough pressure to enable the teeth of the scorer to cut into the surface of the wallpaper. You should not use a knife or scissors to score wallpaper, as it will be difficult to score evenly, and you risk damaging the wall underneath,’ advises Tim.

3. If you want, use a removal solution

If you have a fair amount of time on your hands and want something that will work efficiently every time, buying or making a removal solution may be your best bet.

Chemical wallpaper strippers like this Solvite Ready to Use Wallpaper Stripper from Amazon are faff-free and ready to be sprayed liberally onto your walls. However, you should always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results. You also need to give it time to work its magic, and most experts suggest leaving it at least 20 minutes after spraying.

Tim then advises, ‘Using a stripping knife, make short, sharp movements to remove the paper from the wall once it is loose enough, ensuring that you are not damaging the wall as you go. Try to keep the knife as flat as possible, and do not let the edge dig into the surface. If any areas of the wall begin to dry out before you reach them, apply more of the chemical stripper to the wall according to the instructions.’

You don’t have to use a chemical stripper if you prefer to stick to natural products in your household. If you clean with vinegar, you can also use it to remove wallpaper.

Adam suggests, ‘When using vinegar, mix with equal parts water and then spray the mixture liberally onto the wallpaper. Although you cannot scrimp on the mixture, focusing on small areas at a time is best, and then allow to soak for 10-15 minutes.’

You should then be able to use the scraper to remove the wallpaper from the wall easily. But as with the chemical stripper, you may need to reapply your solution every so often.

4. Alternatively, start steaming

Alternatively, you could use a wallpaper steamer to remove wallpaper from your wall. This is a much quicker method, and while you do have the added cost of buying (or renting) the steamer itself, owning one can come in handy if you plan on using it time and time again.

Using steam to remove wallpaper is also extremely easy. Tim says, ‘Hold the steam plate at the bottom of a strip of wallpaper for roughly ten seconds so that the paper is damp. The steam should have penetrated enough to loosen the adhesive used on the wallpaper, but you may need to leave the steam plate against the wall for a little longer.’

He adds, ‘However, do not hold the steam plate against the wall for longer than a few seconds at a time to avoid damaging the plaster. If you begin to hear a popping noise, this suggests that the plaster is cracking and damaging the wall.’

For ease, it’s a good idea to work from the bottom to the top, as the steam will rise and ultimately make removing the top sections easier. However, you should always open the windows and keep doors open when using a steamer, as you don’t want to create any damp or condensation problems in your home.

5. Clean the walls

Once you’ve done the above, you can focus on cleaning your wallpaper-free walls.

Adam suggests a simple solution of warm, soapy water to do this. And you can apply this using a sponge or cloth. However, if you have any leftover sugar soap - like this Rustins Sugar Soap from Dunelm - in your garage, you could also use this to clean your walls after removing the wallpaper.

This concoction should break down any adhesive residue on your walls and leave you with a squeaky-clean finish. Then, you should leave your walls to fully dry before doing anything else to them.

FAQs

Does washing up liquid remove wallpaper?

Yes, it does! If you don’t want to use a chemical stripper or steamer or make a solution from vinegar, you can make your own washing-up liquid wallpaper remover.

Sarah McCann from Voyage Maison explains, ‘Start by filling a bucket with hot water and adding a few drops of dishwashing liquid. Using a sponge, apply the soapy water directly to the wallpaper and let it soak for twenty minutes before trying to peel the wallpaper away.’

She adds, ‘This method is effective and has minimal odour, but keep in mind that you may need to repeat the process a few times to completely remove the wallpaper, as it is a gentler approach.’

So, if you’re short on time and want to remove wallpaper as soon as possible, washing-up liquid might not be the option for you.

What not to do when removing wallpaper

There are many things you shouldn’t do when removing wallpaper. These include:

• Scoring the wallpaper too deeply before removing.
• Leaving the solution on for too long.
• Steaming for too long.
• Not removing all of the paper.
• Not removing the adhesive residue.

So, now you know how to remove wallpaper you should be able to tick this off your to-do list in no time!

September is when all the paint and wallpaper brands start to announce their trend predictions and we get a glimpse of the emerging 2025 colour palette for our homes. Graham & Brown have kicked this off with the launch of their wallpaper and colour of the year, and it's already clear that rich chocolatey browns are going to continue to be a key colour trend in the new year.

The Lancashire-based wallpaper and paint brand is championing 'Rivington Folly' as their wallpaper of the year 2025. The elegant design inspired by the Rivington Terraced Gardens is an elegant hand-drawn design blending architectural and natural elements.

The wallpaper is available in five neutral colourways, but the hero colourway is 'Dusk' which partners beautifully with the brand's colour of the year 'Elderton' a rich cocoa brown.

When you hear 'brown' it doesn't sound like the most appealing shade to drench your walls in. However, the emergence of the minimaluxe trend and growing interest in hand-craft items in grounding, earthy shades have rehabilitated this colour's image. The new Graham and Brown wallpaper and colour of the year are further examples of how modern and luxurious this colour can look when you choose the right hue.

How to use Rivington Folly in your home

The wallpaper's intricate design is kept from looking busy by restricting the colour palette to shades of the same colour. I can't wait to see other emerging wallpaper trends and see if other brands start to embrace this stunning fine art style design.

If you're not ready to embrace the brown colour trend, the different colourways instantly change the feel of the pattern. In the dusk colourway the geometric shapes in the architecture have an almost mid-century style feel to them, while in the blue firework shade, they look almost like a Toile de Jouy.

The design is also available in a mural in four colourways, which makes a truly captivating wall art idea.

The neutral colourways have made it one of the most versatile wallpaper of the years I've seen, despite the statement design.

'We love the chameleon-like flexibility of our 2025 Design & Colour of the Year. Rivington Folly in its Dusk and Dawn colourways have a metallic lustre that shifts light around the room,' says James Greenwood Interior & Brand Specialist at Graham & Brown.

'We love the use of the design in spaces both with limited natural light or south-facing rooms to bring the warmth of the chocolate undertones.

'Colour of the Year Elderton works in unison with our Wallpaper & Mural design but is authoritative enough to stand proudly independent, envelop your space by taking the cocooning colour up from the wall and over the ceiling.’

The range is now available to browse and buy online. This is just the start of the 2025 colour and wallpaper trend predictions and I can't wait to see what the other announcements have in store.

Just like using carpet in a bathroom, there are certain trends that we like to steer clear of in a wash space for fear of creating a dated look. But if you're wondering if wallpaper in a bathroom is outdated, we can happily report that it still has a firm place in our homes.

Bathroom wallpaper ideas are becoming more and more popular as homeowners want to make an impact with their interior design. Focusing on colour and pattern is a great way to make a small space more of a style statement, requiring just a bit of patience to apply and bring the look together.

In a room where moisture and water splashes are commonplace, you might be nervous about using wallpaper in a bathroom. It might be all over social media, but how will it actually wear over time? We asked

Is wallpaper in bathrooms outdated?

The simple answer to this question is absolutely not, but it also comes down to how you style the wallpaper in a bathroom and the prints you choose. If you're trying to create a super modern bathroom idea then reflective surfaces and neutral palettes might work better for your space. Still, if you love colour and want to have a bit of fun with your bathroom then there are certainly ways to make wallpaper feel contemporary.

Bathroom trends for 2024 centre around combining colour and more classic styles, so for example choosing a traditional chintz wallpaper print but updating it with a modern bathroom colour scheme will create a more enduring design.

'Wallpaper in a bathroom is definitely not dated,' confirms Ideal Home's Deputy Editor, Rebecca Knight.

'In fact, I think it's a brave trend that's making a comeback. It's an easier way to get the look of the new patterned tiles trend and offers so much scope for creativity. However, you do need to think carefully about practicality. Whether this is by buying a moisture-resistant wallpaper from somewhere like Graham & Brown or positioning it correctly, proper application will make your wallpaper look contemporary and well-finished.'

There are a number of simple styling tweaks to make your wallpaper veer towards trendy, rather than outdated too. We asked experts in bathroom design exactly how to bring this to life.

How should you use wallpaper in a bathroom?

1. Go bold in a WC

Downstairs cloakrooms are notoriously tricky to decorate. With it being such a small space that isn't used often, it can fall right to the bottom of the to-do list. But one simple way to spruce the room up with minimal effort is to choose a bold wallpaper.

It's less daunting to choose statement decor for a small bathroom, especially one that isn't immediately visible. It can essentially be your little secret and allows you to dip your toe into the world of pattern and colour in a more palatable way. Plus, wallpapering a small space won't be as costly.

2. Balance the pattern with wall panelling

If you're concerned that a patterned wallpaper might overwhelm a bathroom and make it look dated, then opting for a half-and-half look offers a more contemporary take.

'Adding wood wall panelling to a bathroom is a great way of adding texture and colour, which in turn can add a warmth to what otherwise can be quite a clinical and cold room,' explains Barrie Cutchie, Design Director at BC Designs.

'It also allows you to change up the colour scheme quickly and easily as it can be painted with minimal fuss and expense,' he adds. You can also apply wall panelling yourself with handy kits like these from B&Q, making it a great weekend DIY task.

Bring out a featured colour in the wallpaper by painting the wall panelling in the same shade. This will create a more on-trend look that can be updated if your taste changes.

3. Focus on a splash-free zone

As well as style considerations, there are some practical things to think about when using wallpaper in a bathroom.

'Avoid applying wallpaper to surfaces that are prone a lot of splash back, such as around a bath, shower, or sink, and consider pairing with complimentary tiles, for extra protection. If you’re using standard wallpaper, we recommend using an extra strong wallpaper adhesive to avoid any lifting,' recommends Chelsea Clark, head of marketing at Lust Home.

Adding a tiled border around a sink area will protect the wallpaper from water damage and leave it looking stylish for much longer.

4. Drench the room in pattern

Colour drenching has been a huge trend in interiors in recent years, encouraging renovators to go all out when it comes to decorating each and every wall in their favoured hue. If you're looking to make wallpaper look slightly more current then applying it to the whole room, as opposed to a feature wall, will make a bathroom look full of character and modern.

Small-scale patterns work well for this and we recommend going full chintz in your chosen style. When the room is drenched in pattern it looks purposeful and expertly designed.

5. Pair with tiles

Creating dimension in a design is key to making it look contemporary. A bathroom that heavily features patterns and traditional materials like wood can quickly look dated. Instead, adding different textures such as tiles will create an old-new aesthetic for a dream modern bathroom idea.

Pulling out one of the colours in your wallpaper to use for your bathroom tile ideas will tie the whole look together, just make sure you create differentiation by opting for an interesting texture, like the handcrafted subway tiles shown above.

FAQs

Is wallpaper in bathrooms a good idea?

Using wallpaper in a bathroom isn't a design decision that will come easily, but it will be entirely worth it. It requires careful planning about placement and you will need to make sure your bathroom either isn't a high-moisture space or is well ventilated.

'It’s often believed that you can’t use wallpaper in a bathroom, however with the right preparation, application, and maintenance wallpaper can be a fairly easy and inexpensive way to add some colour or personality to this space,' says Chelsea Clark, head of marketing at Lust Home.

Practical considerations aside, wallpaper is a simple way to make a huge design statement in a wash space, bringing you inspiration on a daily basis.
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What can I use instead of wallpaper in my bathroom?

If the risk of ruining wallpaper with moisture in a bathroom is too much for you, there are plenty of other ways to make your bathroom look on-trend. Getting creative with bathroom paint ideas, for example, painting a tub or making a statement with a bold colour choice on walls will have just as much of an impact as wallpaper.

Bathroom wallpaper is a truly classic look that can easily be brought up to date with some simple style tips, to prevent it from looking outdated. Make sure you're careful of exactly where you apply it and you'll have no regrets on using wallpaper in a bathroom.

Wallpaper is a popular form of wall covering, loved for its ability to easily inject colour and pattern into any home, even rentals as long as you choose the right type of wallpaper. But one area of the home that many are unsure about when it comes to wallpaper is the kitchen. Which begs the question – should you put wallpaper in the kitchen?

To answer this question, we’ve enlisted the help of both kitchen and wallpaper experts. But to put you out of your misery, you can use wallpaper in the kitchen, in fact there are many wonderful kitchen wallpaper ideas you could implement in your cooking space.

But that is only as long as you choose the appropriate kind of wallpaper and avoid certain critical areas which should ideally remain wallpaper-free.

Should you put wallpaper in the kitchen?

‘Using wallpaper in a kitchen adds a splash of personality and whimsy to the heart of the home, transforming it from a functional cooking space into one that better reflects the homeowner’s personality,’ says Dawn Filkins, head of creative at Smile Kitchens.

Hannah Swift, marketing manager of family-run wallpaper retailer, Beautiful Walls, agrees that wallpaper is the ideal kitchen wall decor idea, ‘Wallpaper is a great way to add character to your kitchen. The kitchen can often be quite a clinical space, focused more on functionality than looking great. Adding pattern and colour with a wallpaper is an easy way to soften the space and create more of a homely feel.’

Recently, we’ve seen more and more people decorating their kitchens and treating it like any other room in the house, much like Queer Eye’s Jeremiah Brent and his kitchen design trick. Meanwhile, in his recent London home renovation, Strictly’s Layton Williams wallpapered his kitchen ceiling.

‘Whether aiming for a bold statement, a light and airy atmosphere, or a cosy retreat, wallpaper contributes texture and depth to achieve desired aesthetics, even creating the illusion of more space,’ says Sinead Trainor, kitchen category manager at LochAnna Kitchens. ‘Additionally, wallpaper can effectively camouflage imperfections on the walls, providing a cost-effective solution for renovation projects.’

The cost-effectiveness and easy removal is really the top benefit of wallpaper, besides its aesthetic appeal. ‘One of the advantages of wallpaper over other surfaces such as tiles is that it is easier to fit and remove, so you can change up the aesthetics of your kitchen much easier as and when you decide to refresh,’ says Richard Davonport, Managing Director at Davonport.

And if you don’t dare (or don’t feel like it) to wallpaper the whole kitchen, you can always just choose one section or a feature wall, much like in any other room.

Where in the kitchen should you not put wallpaper?

As mentioned, there are some problematic areas of the kitchen that should be avoided when putting up wallpaper. The splashback is the prime example.

‘If you are wallpapering the vast majority of walls, you’ll still want to consider a tile splashback around key areas such as the hob and sink area as an added layer of protection,’ Richard says.

Chelsea Clark, head of marketing at Henderson Design Group, adds, ‘Avoid applying wallpaper to areas that experience direct contact with water, such as behind the hob or sink.’

How to apply wallpaper in the kitchen

When hanging wallpaper in the kitchen, you need to start with perfectly clean walls, ‘Wallpaper installation requires meticulous preparation to ensure a smooth and long-lasting finish,’ Sinead says.

Chelsea continues with the next steps, ‘Apply wallpaper with an extra-strong adhesive to help keep it from lifting, and ensure the room is cool and well-ventilated before you start the application process.’

Regularly ventilation your kitchen and turning on the extraction fan will also help in prolonging the lifespan of your kitchen wallpaper.

Our favourite kitchen wallpapers

FAQs

Which wallpaper is the most appropriate for kitchens?

Getting the right type of wallpaper for the kitchen is perhaps the most important part of the whole process. As not every wallpaper works in the kitchen.

‘Not all wallpaper is suitable for kitchens so you’ll need to make sure you shop around and find one that is. Kitchen wallpaper is washable and more durable and so can stand up to spills, splashes and cooking fumes better than non-specialist wallpaper,’ Richard says.

Hannah continues, ‘The best type of wallpaper for a kitchen is vinyl as it’s highly durable, washable and resistant to humidity. However, most wallpapers can be used somewhere in the kitchen, depending on where it is used. A less durable wallpaper will still be great in a kitchen as long as it’s away from direct heat and moisture, as an accent wall for example.’

Can you use peel and stick wallpaper in the kitchen?

If you’re a renter and you’re looking to overhaul your kitchen with wallpaper, then peel and stick wallpapers might be the right fit.

‘Peel and Stick wallpaper is a quick and easy way to update your kitchen without the mess and hassle that can come with traditional wallpapers. It also has the added benefit of being easy to remove without leaving any residue making it the perfect option for renters,’ Hannah concludes.

So don’t be afraid to wallpaper your kitchen – all the experts unanimously agree that it’s a great idea!

Bathroom wallpaper… once up on the list of design ‘no-no’s’ along with carpet in a bathroom, but it seems we are embracing patterns on our bathroom walls and looking for more and more bathroom wallpaper ideas as an opportunity to express ourselves. But before you reach for the pasting brush, there are a few things you need to know.

‘There are a myriad of ways to approach a bathroom wallpaper,’ says Ruth Mottershead, creative director of Little Greene. ‘The first thing to consider is how you use the space: is it a downstairs guest loo, where you want to create wow factor, or a retreat which you use to relax and unwind?' 

'For wow factor, a bold, bright large-scale pattern works fantastically as a design statement. For a luxurious bathroom to unwind in, or to bring character to a smaller downstairs WC, consider adding a textural element with the use of wallpaper.’

Bathroom wallpaper mistakes to avoid

Paper and water don’t mix, so you need to work out which bathroom walls are outside immediate splash areas of your bathroom – so around the basin and shower are best tiled. 

Likewise, think about the scale of your chosen wallpaper design – bathrooms are often the smallest room in the house, so think if you have enough wall space to appreciate the patten. 

Tempted? We asked the experts to share their bathroom wallpaper know-how.

1. Don't wallpaper wall-to-wall

‘There are certain areas of the bathroom that no matter how much your wallpaper has been designed for a hot and humid room, just won’t cut it,’ says Grazzie Wilson, head of creative at Ca’ Pietra.

‘Tiles should always be used in the shower area for obvious reasons, as you need a fully waterproof material. We’d also recommend other areas where water is likely to come into contact with surface areas, such as behind the sink, though you can keep tiles to a minimum area.’ 

Of course, there are plenty of ways you can be creative with bathroom tile ideas that work well teamed with wallpaper.

2. Don't forget about ventilation

'We’re always being asked if you can use wallpaper in a bathroom,’ says Jamie Watkins, co-founder of Divine Savages.  ‘Will it be ok with the humidity and moisture? We say, “Yes of course you can!” Indeed, you absolutely should use wallpaper in a bathroom. A properly ventilated bathroom will happily accommodate wallpaper.’ 

‘Good ventilation is key when trying to maintain the finish of wallpaper in a bathroom. Ensure your extractor fan is efficient in drawing steam out of the bathroom and keep windows open as often as you can, to prevent condensation soaking into the wallpaper,’ says Amy Holton, head of creative at I Love Wallpaper. 

Bathrooms by default are damp, humid places. By a ‘properly ventilated bathroom’, we’re talking about a space that is aired out thoroughly after a steamy bath or shower. This can be a window that’s left open or an extractor fan. This will limit condensation but also prevent the appearance of mould and mildew. New-build bathrooms are required to have an extractor fan as they are deemed to be more airtight, with natural ventilation much lower than older properties.

3. Do check the label

While you can use any wallpaper in your bathroom, some types are more suitable than others. ‘We’d always recommend washable wallpaper in bathrooms,’ says James Watson, MD of 1838 Wallcoverings. ‘Look out for the two-waves symbol on the wallpaper label.’

‘For extra durability, opt for a wallpaper with a vinyl coating or scrubbable finish,’ says Amy Holton. ‘But avoid peel and stick wallpapers though, as they are not suited for high humidity environments.’

Using a few tiles in areas prone to splashing is also a good bathroom tile idea. Alternatively, wood panelling on the lower half of the walls, painted in a shade to complement the wallpaper, helps keep scuff marks to a minimum in high traffic areas,’ says Jamie Watkins.

4. Remember you can add extra protection

'If you’re worried about the durability and practicality of using wallpaper in the bathroom, we have a top design secret up our sleeve,’ says Jamie.

‘Make decorator’s varnish your new best friend – it provides a highly durable, clear finish that protects against finger marks, water stains, scuffing and colour fading. You simply apply it over the wallpaper using a brush or roller,' he continues.

'It’s available in dead flat, gloss or satin. We prefer the dead flat for a completely sheen free surface, but for extra protection you can use satin, followed by dead flat. Having this product in your decorating arsenal will ensure your wallpaper stays in perfect condition for years to come.’

5. Use wallpaper to transform a clinical space

‘Bathrooms are often painted in white out of habit, but this can feel a little cold,’ says Ruth. ‘We are seeing the creation of relaxing havens with sumptuous nature inspired, designs that bring a sense of opulence while creating a natural and nurturing feeling.’

‘Bathrooms are a wonderful space to be creative and follow your heart but do consider the atmosphere you wish to create,’ continues Ruth. ‘If you love to relax and luxuriate in a calming bath, perhaps look for a gentle leafy or nature-inspired wallpaper rather than a bold colourful stripe, whereas if you’re a lively shower type, you may wish to go for a more dynamic, bright and uplifting design.’ 

6. Do use bathroom wallpaper to add POW

Embracing a pattern in a small bathroom is great and can actually make it seem bigger, so there is no reason why you can’t you blend serious style with practicality.  Plus it’s the room all guests are bound to see when they pop over, so it’s a chance to have a bit of fun and experiment, creating maximum impact. 

‘And as the bathroom is one of the smaller rooms in a house, you’ll only need a few rolls of wallpaper, so it's the perfect opportunity to splurge on something a little more luxurious,’ says Jamie.

Of course, there are other ways you can add pattern to bathroom walls, including wall art and murals.

7. Do team with tiles

We’re not suggesting that your bathroom becomes a ‘no-tile’ zone, rather that wallpaper and tiles can make a winning combination. 

‘If your bathroom is a family bathroom, or you are likely to want to wash your hair while in the bath, it is good practice to have tiles at least halfway up the wall to help protect from splashes,’ says Grazzie.

‘If you are going to mix the two, you can either stick with tiles around the shower, bath, and basin, or perhaps look to tile halfway up your walls and then use wallpaper above typical splash lines. There is no right and wrong answer as to how you mix the two, it might be that you want to go full maximalism and have strong patterns and colours, or that you wish to juxtapose the two materials using a similar colour palette and shades.’ 

8. Don't be afraid to go bold

‘There’s nothing quite like the power of pattern to transform an otherwise functional room,' says Jamie. 'The vibrant mix of pink and green has been trending for a few years now and it shows no signs of slowing. It also happens to be one of our favourite colour combinations.'

'We recently worked with Ca’ Pietra in our brand-new showroom where the fusion of their gorgeous tiles with our bold wallpaper has really put the “pow” into our powder room. We created a simple but striking stripe with the tiles which grounds the freer pattern of the repeat design on the walls. The result is a fun and flamboyant maximalist space that proves you can go bold in a small space.’

9. Do scale it down as well as up

But it’s not all about statement bathroom wallpaper designs. 

‘Opting for smaller scale wallpaper designs can be equally as effective, combine with a dado, panelling or tiles to halfway up the wall for a more practical element, and then allow the smaller scale wallpaper pattern to extend to the ceiling. This can be very effective in creating the illusion of more height in the room,’ says James.

10. Do start with the paper

‘Use your chosen wallpaper as a basis for your modern bathroom idea, picking out a colour from the wallpaper,’ says Ruth. ‘Don’t overlook the soothing power of darker shades: deep, sumptuous colours on tiles and wallpapers can give your bathroom a luxurious, nurturing feel. Surround yourself with deep blues or intense greens to cocoon yourself in the colours of nature and give yourself time to relax and reflect.’

‘Subtle and delicate neutral patterns work well to create a serene and calming atmosphere or go for a faux marble effect wallpaper to get that ultimate “spathroom” look for less,’ Amy explains.

FAQs

Is bathroom wallpaper waterproof?

Wallpaper, by its very nature isn’t waterproof, yet there are some finishes – the more vinyl-base ones – that are water resistant. Check the label – a single wave means ‘water resistant’ or ‘sponge-able’, two waves mean ‘washable’, while three waves ‘highly wash resistant’. 

No wallpaper would withstand being in a direct splash zone, such as around your shower. There are things you can do to improve your wallpaper’s resistance to water, such as a matt varnish, but the best option is to mix wallpaper with tiles.

What type of wallpaper is best for a bathroom?

Vinyl wallpaper is the most durable and washable, making it a great choice for high humidity areas.

But you can use any wallpaper, depending on how well your bathroom is ventilated, and as long as it’s protected around splash areas. If you are still unsure, what about using your chosen wallpaper in your cloakroom instead?

Are you feeling brave enough to wallpaper up your bathroom? Maybe start with a WC.. 

For the past 10 years, wallpaper and interiors brand Graham and Brown has been getting us excited at the beginning of every Autumn by announcing its wallpaper design and colour of the year. And this one might be one of our favourite ones yet.

The brand is known for its organic, botanical and floral wallpaper ideas. But this year’s New Eden wallpaper and especially the mural design feel different, somehow very real as they immerse you in their soothing and calming air, fitting right in with the wallpaper trend of bringing the outside in.

Graham and Brown wallpaper of the year 2024    

The newly announced design is based on a trend called Utopia which Graham and Brown have been developing for next year. 

‘Our Utopia trend embodies the need to create a calm and welcoming space for yourself and others,’ says Maryanne Catwright, head of design at Graham and Brown.

This is the basis on which the New Eden wallpaper and mural have been built. The brand aims to provide its customers with a nature-inspired refuge, a paradise of calm. But the company also wanted the design to be welcoming to your guests, referencing the Japanese art of Omotenashi, which combines the concepts of hospitality and mindfulness. It’s quite fascinating, actually.

The Japanese influence can also be detected in the actual illustrations seen on the wallpaper. Whether it’s on the smaller, blooming trees surrounded by deep, emerald green of the wallpaper, or on the mural, where large-scale trees tower over rolling hills, circled by birds and even a peacock makes an appearance.

‘New Eden has been heavily influenced by our 2024 trend Utopia, the blurring of boundaries between inside and out. The design really builds, growing up from the floor and the hilly landscape offering intrigue wherever the eyes gaze. Deep green tones create depth and the golden and rusty hues really ground the design to create a calming and welcoming home environment,’ James Greenwood, Graham and Brown’s interiors expert, further explains the design.

Graham and Brown colour of the year 2024

While Graham and Brown is predominantly known for their wallpapers and bold patterns, the company also produces beautiful paints. And along with announcing its design of the year, the brand also released its colour of the year, named Viridis. 

The soft, sage green paint idea pairs perfectly with the New Eden wallpaper, reflecting the same sentiment of creating a calming refuge away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, perfect for a living room colour scheme.

Welcome to paradise!

Hallways can often be tricky to decorate, as it's a room that not only gets a lot of footfall and needs to be practical, but it's also the first impression of your home that guests will get – so it's important to make it a space that lifts you the minute you walk through the door.

If you're looking for some hallway wall decor ideas, it's worth remembering that many makeovers start with one item that the whole room is designed around, whether it's a paint colour, patterned carpet or even a mirror that you've just fallen in love with. That was the case for this homeowner, who saw a wallpaper and knew she just had to have it.

Hallway makeover

Kitty Jones from North Wales was desperate to change up her hall, but it wasn't until she saw the Kalina wallpaper from John Lewis that she knew how she'd go about it. 

'I knew I wanted to get rid of the orange wood when it came to decorating our hallway,' she recalls. 'And once I'd seen (and fallen in love with) this wallpaper the makeover went from there.'

Before

A grey-brown carpet on the stairs and orange woodwork were the things that Kitty was most keen to change in the hallway, but there was also a rather dated wallpaper that she stripped off as soon as she could. 

After

The new-look hall makes a vivid statement, with the botanical wallpaper the star of the show as it runs up the stairs. 'We colour-matched the dark blue colour seen in the wallpaper using Valspar paint on the banisters and stairs, so that it goes beautifully,' says Kitty. 

'As we wanted the maximum effect, we also opted for a runner so you can see more of the beautiful blue at the edges of each step.' 

That dark inky blue has been carried through to the door frames and also used on the under-stairs cupboard, giving the hall a big hit of colour that really makes an impact. 'Painting all of the skirting boards and door frames in the same dark colour adds interest against the light walls,' says Kitty.

'The accessories were purchased from all over,' she continues, 'but the star of the show has to be the arched mirror that we managed to pick up from Aldi's Special Buys.'

Picking out the dark blue colour from the wallpaper rather than going for a standard white for the woodwork has made a huge difference and finished the room off nicely – and it's a good trick to use if you're after some painted stair ideas.

Even the radiator got a glow-up, with a lick of paint and a shelf from Etsy added above it for accessories.

'As we had purchased wood and metal paint we were able to paint the radiator the same colour (using our trusted Zinsser B-I-N primer underneath). We also colour matched the white on the other walls to the background colour of the wallpaper.'

So, we know we love the new-look hallway, but is Kitty happy with the outcome? 'We're over the moon with the transformation and it reflects our style from the moment you walk in the door,' she says.

You can see more of Kitty's home on Instagram over at @hafod_home. 

Have you been inspired to give your entranceway a revamp?

Looking for WFH inspiration to help you plough through the day? These home office wallpaper ideas might just do the trick. If you're faced with an uninspiring blank wall in front of your desk, then this will be the perfect placement for a creative refresh. 

Working from home has become more commonplace than ever before, with many office workers switching their routines to at least a few days at home. And even if this isn't in your weekly routine, a home office space is useful for life admin, children's homework sessions, and creative projects. 

With this, our spare rooms and garden rooms (or even corners of our living and bedrooms) are all in need of a spruce up to accommodate this new use-case. A successful home office should be a space that you actually look forward to spending time in, not dread the sight of. 

‘With many of us spending more time than ever at home, our interiors have adapted to incorporate new and often multiple uses,' explains Ruth Mottershead, Creative Director at Little Greene.

'Decorating is a fantastic way of zoning an office space, allowing you to be creative and re-purpose an alcove or corner of a room, or create an entirely different mood in one area of an open plan space. Whether your office space is within a separate room or simply a corner within a space, making a focussed area can be made easier with the use of colour and pattern.'

Home office wallpaper ideas

‘Rather than being grey, dull functional spaces home offices can provide the opportunity to create a truly inspiring space that sparks creativity and positivity,' says Stefan Ormenisan, Founder and Creative Director, MINDTHEGAP.

'Wallpaper is a wonderful tool for zoning a home office area with a feature wall, but also provides a way to add depth and design interest. I love wallpapers that take you away, providing escapism and inspiring thought and focus.'

Worried that home office wallpaper ideas might be too much for you? Don't worry - we've catered to the minimalists too, with paired back prints and room sectional ideas that will add style and elegance to your space so you really don't have to wallpaper the entire wall in a bold print (unless you really want to).

1. Think pink

Working from home can require some serious creative stimuli to prevent you from falling into a rut, so why not go bold with wallpaper? 

'If you're tight on space but still want to introduce a statement feature, consider creating a faux accent wall using wallpaper,' advises Siobhan Murphy, interior and product designer. 

'Choose a bold and flamboyant design and apply it to just one wall in your office - it works particularly well on the longest wall of your room, or the wall behind where your desk sits. This technique adds depth and dimension to the room without overwhelming the space.' 

Why not go one step further with a bold wallpaper by opting for a pink palette? The tone is on-trend so it will make a workspace feel current and inspiring, plus, it pairs perfectly with plants which are great for wellbeing.

2. Embrace a grandmillennial look

Wallpaper and textiles with organic shapes are having a major moment in interiors, providing an interesting pattern without committing to a motif. A rickrack design is the perfect way of incorporating a visually interesting design, while also leaning on the grandmillennial trend.  

Grandmillennial style, otherwise known as granny chic, is appearing in modern home offices too - not just country ones. However, it can still be a tricky trend to commit to if florals aren't your thing, so consider incorporating a rickrack pattern to add style to a workspace that still hinges on a contemporary look. 

'We’re finding that people are wanting their home offices to be every bit as design savvy as the rest of their house. Your office space should inspire and stimulate, along with giving you that space to focus,' says Tricia Guild OBE, founder and creative director for Designers Guild. 

3. Pick a small pattern

Choosing a wallpaper for a home office can be challenging - you want something that will spur creativity while also being calm enough for focus time. Large murals can feel overwhelming, so opting for a smaller, repeated pattern will add style while also being more calming. It's also a great option for a small home office. 

'Choose a wallpaper with a small-scale pattern to create an illusion of depth and space. This is particularly effective in cosy home offices where a large-scale pattern might feel overwhelming. By playing with scale, you can make the room feel more open and inviting,' Siobhan recommends. 

4. Maximise the height of a room

Similar to colour drenching, the latest paint trend we can't get enough of, taking wallpaper up to the ceiling and architrave will make a home office feel professionally designed. 

The popularity of feature walls has been replaced with a rise in entirely wallpapered rooms, and while this might not be a trend you want to commit to, taking the paper up a few inches higher will have a huge impact. 

It makes ceilings feel higher, but also creates a cosy feeling that will be perfect for WFH days in the winter months. 

5. Stick to one palette

To help simplify the decision of picking the perfect wallpaper, create a colour palette for the entire home office. For example, painting a built-in bookshelf blue lends nicely to wallpaper with hints of the same blue shade, tying the scheme together. 

Alternatively, you can create a tonal look with variations of the same colour. This will add dimension to a home office so that it feels stimulating to work in, as opposed to a flat colour scheme with minimal depth. Blue is also known for having health benefits like boosting productivity, making it the ideal colour for a work environment.

6. Combine matching prints in different colourways

With home office wallpaper ideas, sometimes less is more. 'A more subtle change such as adding a wallpaper that uses the same colour palette as your paint colour will create a more harmonious transition,' advises Ruth from Little Greene. 

Here, this super subtle print has been repeated in two different colourways, separated by a picture rail painted in the same shade as the desk. The darker print sits below the picture rail anchoring the scheme while the lighter shade is above it giving the illusion of taller ceilings. 

This is a great way to tackle some small home office ideas, keeping the remaining furniture and accessories in paler shades. The lack of window dressing also allows more light to flood into the room, as natural light is a must of a good working environment.

7. Split the difference

Have your heart seat on a bold print but worriers it might be too much for a home office? A simple solution is to take advantage of one of the many brilliant wallpaper tricks available and create a piece of practical wall art with a large sample of the print. 

Pick up a cork pin board for a steal using home decor discount codes, then paint the frame a shade that coordinates with the pattern. Next, stick the wallpaper down in place over the cork and hang it up on the wall. Use it as a pinboard or just fix your favourite keepsakes to it.

Want more colour in the space? Working in thirds, wallpaper from the skirting upward to around one third up the wall - or where a natural dado rail might sit. Choose a subtle, barely there pattern to add interest without being too distracting, and fix a length of moulding to cover the join between the wallpaper and the wall.

8. Section off your desk space with wallpaper

'If you are creating a zoned area for your home office area,' advises Ruth from Little Greene, 'consider your existing palette carefully. Contrasting home office wallpaper ideas will clearly define an area, creating focus and design interest'.

This bold combination of yellow patterned wallpaper and green painted wall at first sight looks like a bold contrast but on careful inspection of the pattern the touches of green in the bold print, match the painted section below the dado ensuring a coordinating look. 

9. Go for a super soothing floral

This big, blowsy floral has been tamed by the choice of subtle shades, making an interesting but not distracting surroundings while you work. The shades used in the wallpaper have been picked out and used on the stool and various accessories, as an accent to the wood and wicker pieces.

10. Introduce a panel of paper in a multitasking space

Not everyone has the luxury of having garden office ideas or a spare room which they can use as a home office. The majority of us have to carve out space in our bedrooms or living rooms , yet we may still wish to define that space with wallpaper.

‘Be it a feature wall, an alcove, panelling or behind shelving,' explains Kate French, Creative Director at Dado, 'adding wallpaper is a fantastic way to zone a small office space within a larger room.  Wallpaper is a fantastically versatile and easy way to add colour, pattern and personality to what can often be dull and functional spaces.'

Tame bold home office wallpaper ideas using a coordinating paint colour alongside - if you're concerned that the print by be too distracting if in direct line of view, paper an adjacent panel or chimney breast instead.

11. Pick a dynamic print for a creative feel

If you work is more hands on and less screen based - like sewing for instance -  you can afford to push the boat out a little further when choosing from a wide selection of a home office wallpaper ideas. 

With craft room ideas, busy prints are a great option as they tend keep the brain occupied and alert, so pick an 'out there' design to encourage creativity and vitality. 

12. Limit the print to a frameless pinboard

Wallpapered pinboards are one of the best home office wall decor ideas out there. They're also ideal if you have papered another room in your home in a pattern you love and have a little leftover on the roll.  

As designer William Morris once said: 'Have nothing in your houses that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful.' This frameless pinboard design covers both perfectly. 

Again, keep the look coordinated by choosing a shade from the pattern - not one of the main colours - and painting the walls in that colour.

13. Look for the detail

Everyone's mind wanders occasionally when at work so give yourself new home office wallpaper ideas to focus on. Stefan from MINDTHEGAP suggests choosing 'designs that make a statement when viewed from afar, but offer beautiful design detail when seen up close are wonderful for home office spaces.

'Consider Chateau in Anthracite (image above) which creates design impact with it’s monochrome geometric pattern,'he continues, 'but provides mesmerising fine architectural detailing when viewed close up.'

14. Add lashings of luxe with a gold-tinted print

Whether you're a fairweather home office worker or you're glued to your desk five days a week, that doesn't mean you have to sacrifice on style. It's still your home and you can decorate it whichever way you like. 

If you're in the 'more is more camp', look for wallpapers that feature light reflecting luxe metallic details to allow you to go a little more dramatic with your decor. 

15. Keep it neutral and natural for a calm feel

'With so much of our time spent desk bound and in front of screens,' says Kate from Dado, 'I think choosing home office wallpaper ideas that create a connection to the outside world is key. Opt for gentle floral motifs, bright scenic designs or bold tropical leaf prints that reflects nature and the outside world.'

'Printmaker Jo de Pear’s Palm Leaf design responds not only to our yearning for nature and travel, but also for the handcrafted and authentic. This Palm Leaf wallpaper adds narrative and depth to a space, whilst the tropical green colourway will have you feeling positive and calm too.’

16. Stay smart with a classic monochrome

Not one for colour? Or do you just work better in a more neutral environment? Black and white doesn't have to be boring. A fabric look wallpaper in a subtle grey shade provides the perfect backdrop to your smart new office space. 

Don't forget the all-important home office storage ideas like clever shelving and smaller storage to keep the space tidy. Choose these in shade of black and white add the odd touch of red for a colour pick-me-up. 

The hallway is often a neglected space but it really shouldn’t be as it’s the first glance your guests get of your home. And we all know that first impressions matter. So why not impress them as soon as they walk through the door with some pattern and character with the help of some hallway wallpaper ideas?

In fact, hallway ideas are the perfect opportunity to get creative and go a bit wild with bold colours and statement prints because entryways tend to be a small space that we don’t spend that much time in. So there’s no reason not to have fun – is there a motif or a colour you love but think it’s a bit ‘too much’ to be looking at all day long? Try and experiment with it in the hallway! Who knows, you might end up loving it so much that it will end up being your favourite wallpaper idea for the living room or even the bedroom.

Hallway wallpaper ideas

‘Your hallway says a lot about who you are,’ says Fiona Howard, founder of Fiona Howard Wallpapers. ‘It’s an introduction to you and your style, and can be used as a preview as to what’s to come throughout the rest of the home. Plus, it’s a place where very little time is spent loitering – it’s more of a transient space which means homeowners can go really bold in their design. Wallpaper is a really great way of encapsulating your personal style. Plus, they offer a wow factor as you open the door and give visitors a glimpse into the home.’

Eloise Olde-Wolbers, commercial director at Galerie Wallcoverings, adds, ‘Using wallpaper in a hallway offers several benefits, both aesthetically and functionally. A hallway is often the first space a guest sees, so it’s important to create something memorable. Wallpaper will add visual interest to a hallway, creating a focal point and setting the tone for the rest of your home. Many hallways also lack any natural light, with lighter coloured wallpaper making the space feel brighter and more open. Wallpaper is capable of transforming what is often a neglected space into a stylish and welcoming area.’

And this is exactly how to incorporate the transformative power of wallpaper into your hallway.

1. Be practical with washable wallpaper

Hallways are high-traffic areas prone to scuffs and dirt brought in from the outside. So save yourself trouble and make your life easier by opting for a washable wallpaper style that you can just wipe clean to make it look as good as new.

‘It’s a practical choice for areas with high footfall, as washable wallpapers are easy to maintain and keep clean, especially in homes with children and pets,’ says Chelsea Clark, head of marketing at Lucie Annabel.

James Mellan-Matulewicz, CEO and creative director at Bobbi Beck, agrees, ‘With washable and scrubbable options, wallpaper is practical for maintaining a clean, fresh look in busy spaces.’

2. Go for stripes

Striped patterns are one of the most popular wallpaper trends at the moment. But they look especially great in hallways as they make small spaces appear bigger than they are – which is something most of us can use in our hallway. Wouldn’t you agree?

‘Stripes are always popular in hallways, helping to elongate or add height to a space. Vertical stripes can make ceilings feel higher, while horizontal stripes can widen the space visually,’ Chelsea at Lucie Annabel says.

Fiona Howard adds, ‘Stripes are wonderful in a hallway and are very on-trend right now. Plus, they can be used horizontally to give the impression of a very wide, long hall and make the whole space feel much more expansive.’

3. Look to the past for inspiration

You can blame fashion trends or a widespread sense of nostalgia (or both) but the past is apparently in. And as far as hallway wallpaper looks go, this is expressed through vintage-inspired charming motifs like toile de jouy.

‘There has been a resurgence in vintage-inspired prints like toile and chinoiserie, bringing a touch of elegance and historical charm,’ Chelsea at Lucie Annabel explains.

Eloise at Galerie Wallcoverings, ‘Vintage and retro styles are also making a comeback, bringing classic elegance and a touch of nostalgia to homes.’

4. Wallpaper the ceiling

While you can, of course, cover your entire hallway in your chosen wallpaper design, sometimes it’s better to exercise restraint and only pick out one area or feature to wallpaper. The ceiling is the perfect target as it will create an unexpected focal point which will also draw the gaze upwards, making the space appear bigger.

‘Wallpapering an entire hallway creates a cohesive and dramatic effect, especially with subtle or neutral patterns. However, many prefer to wallpaper select areas for balance which can create a focal point without overwhelming the space,’ James at Bobbi Beck says.

5. Team wallpaper with wood panelling

Panelling part of the wall with timber cladding is a beautiful way to break up an expanse of patterned wallpaper.

In this instance the grey cloud print wallpaper has been taken into the window alcove and across the ceiling. If the wallpaper was covering the entire height of the walls as well, it could feel over-powering.

Situated between the wallpaper and the patterned tiles on the floor, the navy hallway wall panelling idea brings balance to the scheme.

6. Create a kaleidoscopic effect

The hallway is the perfect space to get creative with colour and pattern, going big and bold. 'Wallpaper can work in almost any room in the house including the hallway, so don’t be afraid to make a statement,' says Ann Marie Cousins, founder of AMC Design. 'Opt for fabulous patterns that really draw the eye in and pack a punch!

'Consider how much natural light the hallway has and think about your design scheme as a whole before choosing so that it looks cohesive at the end. Whether your hallway is small or large, don’t feel restricted with the wallpaper you choose.

'If you want the wallpaper to stand out, pick a design with a larger print to take the eye directly to the walls as soon as guests walk in. If you opt for a wallpaper in a darker design and wallpaper every wall, this can also give the illusion of space rather than making the room feel smaller.'

7. Wallpaper panelled sections

Pattern all over the hallway walls too much? It does have to be something you know you can live with for some time at least. Take a different route by wallpapering doors and panelled sections of your under stair storage instead.

Team the wallpaper with painted woodwork in a tonal hue and you'll create a stylish feature out of this often neglected part of the decor. 'If you’re decorating a hallway, staircase or landing then lean into your limited space with a decisively bold print,' says wallpaper designer, Elizabeth Ockford.

'Wallpaper with a meandering pattern will lead the eye and create a feeling of movement in a connecting space. In narrower areas, pattern adds visual interest without encroaching on precious square footage.'

8. Add a tropical flavour

Palm prints have been a popular home decor trend for some time, bringing their tropical beauty to UK homes.

Hanging palm print wallpaper throughout a hallway will instantly inject your home with personality and pizazz, not to mention holiday vibes. Keep it looking tidy with a rack for coats, shoes and bags, so the focus stays on those vibrant walls.

9. Hang pretty wallpaper panels

There are numerous ways to introduce pattern and colour to walls. If you've seen a wallpaper or two that you love but don't want to cover your entire hallway in them, get creative.

Consider framing sections of the paper in a trio or triptych instead. This makes a smart alternative to a feature wall or hanging artworks or prints.

Select the darkest tone in the pattern and paint the frame in that shade. This will set it off and create a sharp contrast against white walls.

10. Add interest with texture

When we think of wallpaper, we tend to think of busy patterns and bold colours. Yet there are plenty of subtle and textured wall-coverings that can change the feel of a space too.

'Hallways can vary greatly in size, so if you want the space to feel bright and open, choose a wallpaper in a neutral colourway or opt for a delicate pattern or texture to offer a soft backdrop,' says Juliette Thomas, founder of Juliettes Interiors.

'This will show enough attention to detail to capture your guests’ attention, without diverting too much away that it becomes overpowering. In narrow hallway ideas especially, this will make a big difference as it will give the illusion of space.'

11. Go for a graphic print

A simple graphic wallpaper print will enliven a hallway and look smart too.

If you’re not brave enough to adorn all your walls with pattern, then zone a certain spot or area to break up the space. Depending on the size, establish a cosy corner or a welcoming walkway, with a different feel to the rest of the hallway.

12. Turn storage into a feature wall

Make a style statement out of the under stair storage in your hallway with a quirky wallpaper in a vibrant print. Paint the door in a bold colour that flatters the wallpaper idea for a fun feature.

If you know how to hang wallpaper and are confident in your skills, this would make a great DIY project on a rainy weekend.

13. Make your mark with monochrome

Keep your hallway feeling fresh and bright with an eye-catching black on white wallpaper print. These water lilies look gorgeous blown up to this large oversized scale in monochrome.

This simple palette offers a calmer atmosphere than colour would, and it doesn't matter if doors are left open, as it's easy to work it with whatever schemes lie ahead in the rooms beyond.

14. Coordinate a colour scheme

Create a cohesive colour scheme by picking out a key colour from your wallpaper design to paint the woodwork which frames it. As this beautiful example by Little Greene shows a matching colour scheme creates a big impact, giving the wallpaper design more prominence.

In this bright hallway the green and blue wallpaper is accentuated by the woodwork in the same shade of blue.

15. Match wallpaper throughout a hallway and landing

Use a wallpaper design to create a seamless flow to guide you through the space, transitioning through from the entrance hallway up onto the landing idea and the first floor above. Choose a design that intrigues to make the space come alive with pattern.

As with this bold hallway decor it's a great idea to paint the adjoining walls in a paler shade that coordinates with the design but doesn't overpower the print.

16. Wow with a feature wall

In a hallway where you have one full length of wall, while the opposite walls is broken with doorways, the layout naturally lends itself to wallpapering a feature wall idea. Choose a design you love to make a statement style impact from the moment the door is open, setting the tone for the rest of the decor throughout your home.

Take a daring approach to decorating your hallway - this beautiful blousy floral wallpaper is sure to brighten your mood as soon as you walk in the door.

17. Wallpaper the stairs

Where you want to add wow with wallpaper, without overpowering the walls in a small space, try papering the stairs instead. Adorning the threads on a staircase is a creative way to welcome colour, pattern and interest to a hallway colour scheme.

'Another idea is to wallpaper the stairs, which can serve as a creative focal point without overwhelming the walls in a smaller hallway. This adds a wow factor while introducing colour and pattern in a fresh, unexpected way,' Chelsea at Lucie Annabel says.

18. Take pattern to a higher level

To create depth in your hallway decorating scheme and naturally draw the eye upwards, guiding you up the stairs, choose to wallpaper at waist height and above. Save the bottom panel of the wall with a neutral to ground the scheme and allowing the pattern to really stand out.

Use a dado rail to gauge a natural divide, but fear not if your home doesn't have this architectural detail – simply create your own divide by measuring a dividing at roughly waist height. Use a spirt level and masking tape to the determine a pleasingly sharp line to paint up to and wallpaper beyond.

'Only wallpaper certain sections, like the upper half of the walls, and keep the lower half neutral. This creates depth and naturally draws the eye upwards, making the space feel more expensive. A dado rail can serve as a stylish divide between wallpaper and paint, balancing the design,' Chelsea at Lucie Annabel confirms.

19. Liven up a storage unit

Choose a geometric grey wallpaper for a thoroughly modern way to jazz up a white storage unit in your hallway. Cover the wall before you fit the unit, and any gaps in the shelving will appear beautifully decorative. Circular hooks such as these will add to the futuristic effect.

20. Go bold to the ceiling

Your hallway may seem a functional space, but Keith Stephenson and Mark Hampshire, founders of retro wallpaper brand Mini Moderns, see it as a playground where the past's motifs inspire future ideas. And they believe you shouldn't be put off by a lack of light.

'When faced with a room or corridor without natural light, it can actually be more successful to use a darker colour,' say Keith and Mark. 'Include pattern to open it up visually,' they recommend. And we recommend you wallpaper the ceiling, too, to take the look to a powerful and cocooning next level.

21. Add a touch of luxe with gold

Shine out with a white and gold wallpaper that demands attention. This design is a great example of a large-scale, uncluttered design that loses none of the eye-catching powers of a more busy print. It's light and bright feel is ideal for a hallway, where natural light is often lacking.

'Metallic accents and subtle gold details are favoured for adding glamour and reflecting light in narrow spaces. Light-reflective finishes, like metallic or pearlescent accents, brighten the area and enhance openness,' James at Bobbi Beck says.

22. Bring the outside in

Choose a trailing trellis design to create the look of a summer garden in your hallway. Paired with a gardener's table painted in a distressed green shade, this look is for those who can't bear to be parted from their gardens when indoors. An abundance of cut flowers could barely be more appropriate as an accessory.

'A trend we are seeing around wallpapering hallways is botanical and floral designs. Botanical wallpapers help connect indoor spaces with nature, making the hallway feel more inviting and alive,' says Lauren Kavanagh, art director at Hovia.

23. Set the scene

Choose a scenic wall mural to add a characterful touch to an entranceway. Watch as visitors stand and stare at this striking wallpaper, which features a traditional landscape oil painting as its design. You'll almost feel as though you could walk into this scene and the space will seem larger for this trick of the eye.

'Mural wallpapers depicting landscapes or abstract scenes can turn the hallway into an artful focal point,' James at Bobbi Beck says.

When using such a statement wall mural stick to furniture that will blend in, rather than add contrast.

24. Fake wood cladding with wallpaper

Create a rustic hallway scheme by choosing a wallpaper that looks like weathered wooden boards. Distressed wall finishes are a popular look just now, and wallpapers are an easy way to get the look without the need for expensive wooden cladding.

A sleekly painted blue door, neutral wicker accessories and a striped storage seat show that this space isn’t in the slightest bit neglected.

FAQs

Can you wallpaper hallways?

Yes you can wallpaper hallways, in fact it's a great place to use wallpaper to make a real wow statement for first impressions. If your wallpaper is maximalist and bold choose to wallpaper the largest expanse of wall, one that is not broken by doorways to avoid it feeling too overwhelming. For smaller, more subtle designs you can afford to wallpaper all walls – regardless of layout.

How do you pick wallpaper for a hall?

Pick a wallpaper for a hall that sets the tone for the rest of your decor, if you want to create a seamless flow throughout the downstairs layout. Pick out a dominant key featured in your chosen wallpaper to paint doors, door frames, cornicing and skirting boards to ensure the colour scheme matches perfectly.

With colour matching services in DIY retailers you can take a sample of your wallpaper along with you to get the exact colour match.

To create an impact from the minute you walk through the door choose an on-trend maximalist wallpaper that stands out, in comparison to your wider decorating scheme.

So don’t be afraid of some colour and pattern – have fun with wallpapering your hallway and take your guests’ breath away.

It's easy to think the only way to decorate our kitchens is with paint and tiles, but that's not the case. Clever use of kitchen wallpaper decor ideas can refresh your space and add a splash of personality.

There are designs, patterns and colours to suit all kitchen ideas, even especially minimalist spaces. Plus, it's an easy way to update the heart of your home without having to call in the pros.

Kitchens are a wonderful space to embrace pattern,' says Ruth Mottershead, creative director of Little Greene. 'Whether it is a bold, large-scale design that creates a statement or a smaller-scale pattern that can be used on all four walls, it is one of the quickest ways to change a space.'

'Being simple to apply and therefore easily updated, it can radically change the feel of a room in just a few hours.'

Kitchen wallpaper decor ideas

'Wallpaper is a great way of adding another texture and dimension whilst retaining colour throughout the room scheme,' says Jamie Watkins, co-founder of Divine Savages.

'Bringing bold colour and pattern through kitchen wallpaper decor ideas can work wonders.'

1. Reinforce a colour scheme

Wallpaper can be used to add a contrasting colour - or to bring together kitchen colour schemes. In just about every space there are usually a couple of lead shades. 

Choose a wallpaper which incorporates the two main colours you want to highlight to reinforce the scheme to perfection. Balance the tones by bringing out the less dominant colour through accessories (or a worktop) in the same shade. 

2. Zone a dining space

Open-plan kitchens are increasingly popular in family homes where a cooking space is also a place to work from home, dine, host and complete homework. However, creating dedicated areas for different tasks will ensure your kitchen works hard for your lifestyle. 

Wallpaper in an open-plan dining space will make it feel cosier than the cooking area while adding decor that is easier to update than statement kitchen cabinetry that you might change your mind about. 

3. Add interest to open shelving

'We’re seeing wallpaper used more to create focal points in kitchens, such as lining in glass cabinets and behind open shelving,' notes Jamie from Divine Savages. 'It is the perfect opportunity to have fun and embrace bold pattern and print, especially for those who like to be a little more subtle with their use of pattern and colour. And you’ll find you probably only need a couple of rolls to make that big statement.'

As well as being an easy way to include pattern in your kitchen, papering the backs of shelves is a great solution for using wallpaper within small kitchen ideas.

4. Mix and match styles

Add personality and interest to modern kitchen ideas by having some fun with your wallpaper. Cover walls with two different types of paper for a sense of fun and individuality. 

Go bold - try pattern clashing for a statement look. Just make sure that both designs have different scales. Two busy small repeats will look overwhelming when placed together.

5. Protect with glass

'Avoid using wallpaper in areas with high moisture, grease or smell such as above the stove or kitchen sink ideas, as this can damage the wallpaper over time,' says Ann Marie Cousins, founder, AMC Design. 'Your decorator however can use ploy vine on the wallpaper to make it more robust if needed.'

If this isn't an option and you don't want to break up your walls with an area of paint or tiles, a panel of glass will turn your kitchen wallpaper decor ideas into a stylish splashback.

6. Revamp an island

Who said wallpaper has to be confined to walls? Exactly. Get creative a paper unexpected surfaces. This will allow you to dip your toe into colour and pattern, or try out a bold design. 

Kitchen island ideas are a prime spot for this. Paper the sides of the island for a cool hit of pattern. Spillages can obviously still happen, so consider your material choice carefully. 'A vinyl wallpaper would be the obvious answer here as they are almost scrubbable,' advises Stephanie Dunning, Co-Founder, Dunning & Everard. 'However, you will be restricted in your choice.'

'We suggest making decorators varnish your new best friend,' says Jamie from Divine Savages. 'It provides a highly durable, clear finish that protects against water, and stains. Simply apply it over the wallpaper using a brush or roller. Having this product in your decorating arsenal will ensure your wallpaper stays fresh and fabulous in perfect condition for years to come.'

7. Combine paint and paper

Whether you're concerned about the practicality of kitchen wallpaper ideas, or simply aren't a fan of a fully patterned space, combine your paper choice with complementary kitchen paint ideas. 

Paper the upper portion of the room, so you're keeping it furthest from steam and spillages, and paint the lower section. Painting the walls in the same colour as your cabinetry will create a considered and stylish finish.

8. Pick a fresh floral

If your kitchen has high ceilings, you might need to be careful in choosing a wallpaper design that doesn't make the room feel smaller. Opting instead for a bright, light and fresh-floral wallpaper, will add the pattern your kitchen needs, but still make the room feel spacious.

Pick a design that compliments your cabinets, or if you have a wallpaper in mind that doesn't, perhaps learning how to paint kitchen cabinets in a new shade is the answer instead.

9. Choose a design that will grow with your home

Although wallpaper is fairly easy to remove and replace, if you're going to invest in a design that you LOVE but makes your eyes water slightly at the price, you want to know it's going to stand the test of time. 

Choose classic designs and ones you know you will love for years to come. While 'fashion' designs are great for some areas of your home, you want your kitchen to remain practical but beautiful so stripes, florals and designs that reflect nature are good places to start.

'Be as bold as you dare,' says Stephanie from Dunning & Everard. 'Wallpaper is seeing a renaissance in its design, availability and usage. I can remember my mother choosing wallpaper for her kitchen 40 years ago and here we are back again using wallpaper in our kitchens and long may it last!'

10. Stick to a theme

If a traditional kitchen idea is what you're aiming to achieve, then go all in with a wallpaper that fits the theme. Pick a pattern in a similar colour scheme as cabinetry and amp up the florals for an eclectic, homely design. 

Order a sample of the wallpaper before buying so you can test it out in your chosen room. Like paint, the colour of a wallpaper can vary greatly depending on the lighting and small kitchen paint colours may look different when used in a larger space, so make sure you look at it at different points during the day.

FAQs

What wallpaper is best for kitchens?

You can pretty much use any type of kitchen wallpaper decor ideas, just like you would in other room in your home. While there might be a worry about getting it wet if near the sink, or stained if near the cooker, you can avoid these areas or give them extra protection.

Firstly you could place a slim panel of glass over the top of the bottom third of your wall (where the paper meets the work surfaces), to create a bespoke splashback. You could choose to paper the top two thirds of your wall and leave the bottom third painted. Alternatively you could choose the paper the walls on the opposite side of your kitchen, rather than the ones where the washing up and cooking will be happening.

'Most wallpapers are now classed as either washable or spongeable and can be cleaned carefully with a cloth or sponge,' adds Rebecca from MissPrint. 'Wallpapering a kitchen is a great idea to inject a bit of character and quirk into a functional space.'

Is kitchen wallpaper a good idea?

‘So many people ask whether you can use wallpaper in a kitchen,' says Jamie from Divine Savages. 'Will it be ok near the sink, and will it withstand the humidity and moisture from steam and the heat from cooking?'

'We are huge fans of kitchen wallpaper wallpaper decor ideas! A properly ventilated kitchen will happily accommodate wallpaper, and you can easily avoid the ‘danger areas’ by using tiling in areas prone to splashing.'

How do you hang wallpaper in a kitchen?

How to hang wallpaper in a kitchen is done just the same way as you would in any other room of your home. Be sure to give your walls a good clean with a damp cloth first, to remove any grease or dust and let it dry completely before beginning. 

If you're papering a lot of half-height walls and find you have a few off cuts left over from your kitchen wallpaper decor ideas, use them to make artwork, line the back of cupboards or paper the inside of a dresser.

Whether it's a weekend DIY project or you're more comfortable calling in professionals to help, adding wallpaper to your kitchen will create ample personality without too much work. 

If you want to bring some colour, pattern and even character into your living room then wallpaper is the best way to go about it. This is especially true in the last few years as wallpaper has had something of a resurgence, becoming popular and modern again after being thought of as old-fashioned. And while all rooms can benefit from a beautiful wall covering, as the heart of the home, we’d start with living room wallpaper ideas first.

When considering living room ideas for your lounge’s walls, the right wallpaper idea can often be more durable and create more of an ambiance than most paint ideas. Wallpapers can also have more of a visual impact - something you could call a wow factor - due to the differently textured and patterned designs.

And interior designer Julie Anne Burch predicts wallpaper is not going anywhere anytime soon so you can be sure you’re creating a timeless design in your living room with our top tips. ‘I believe wallpaper is here to stay. The resurgence of wallpaper in interior design is driven by a desire for unique and personalised home decor. Advances in materials and printing technology have made wallpaper more durable, versatile, and easier to apply and remove, making it a practical choice for long-term use. Moreover, the variety of designs available, from classic motifs to contemporary patterns, ensures that wallpaper can evolve with changing tastes and trends.’

Living room wallpaper ideas

‘The living room is the centre of your home, it’s where you relax after a long day and where you spend lazy weekends lounging around,’ says Hannah Swift, marketing manager at family-run wallpaper retailer Beautiful Walls. ‘You want this space to be inviting, calming and relaxing.’

And these are 27 ideas how you can create a living space like this with the help of nothing else wallpaper.

1. Add depth with texture

It’s not all about colours and patterns with wallpapers. One of the other elements a wall covering can also offer is texture which in turns brings extra depth and warmth into a living room. It’s also coincidentally one of the latest wallpaper trends.

‘Textured wallpaper adds depth and dimension to a room, creating a cosy and inviting atmosphere,’ Julie Anne says.

Chelsea Clark, head of marketing at I Love Wallpaper, agrees, ‘Opt for wallpapers that offer both aesthetic appeal and practicality—like textured designs that add depth and warmth.’

Whether you introduce texture through a fabric finish, embossed effect or other ways is up to you. Additionally, it also makes for the perfect small living room wallpaper idea.

2. Go for an understated look with neutral shades

Living rooms are often used as a place to relax and unwind – and wallpaper can help further that very feel of the space, as long as you choose the right colours and patterns. For a soothing and undisruptive finish, interior experts recommend a soft, neutral colour scheme.

‘Lighter colours and neutrals are often a top choice for living rooms, as they evoke a sense of freshness and make the space appear larger and more open, creating an airy and comfortable atmosphere,’ Chelsea says.

Interior designer Rena Sarant adds, ‘Soft colours and neutrals in one tone are ideal, as they avoid high contrast, which can make the room feel too busy and overwhelming.’

3. Incorporate a mural of a natural landscape

‘A living room wallpaper trend that is growing in popularity is the use of panoramic landscape murals that wrap around multiple walls, sometimes even all the walls of the space,’ says James Mellan-Matulewicz, CEO and creative director at Bobbi Beck.

Nature-inspired sceneries make for both serene and grandiose mural designs that work just as well as a living room feature wall idea or covering multiple walls as James suggests. It’s just one symptom of the overall tendency toward biophilic design as we all strive to bring the outdoors in at least a little bit.

‘Stylistically the designs tend to be akin to late 19th century landscape paintings or feature Chinoiserie or Oriental themes. This gives the feel of stately country homes and grand manors which were often decorated with hand-painted murals across the walls,’ he explains.

Hannah at Beautiful Walls agrees, ‘This year has seen an increase in scenic murals, large scale, immersive designs that transport you somewhere beautiful. Murals have been used in interior design for centuries and although the design trends change regularly, the overall concept of a large-scale, immersive image remains popular.’

4. Opt for vinyl wallpaper

While paper is literally in the name of wallpaper, that doesn’t mean your wallcovering needs to be made from paper. Especially as it’s often not the most long-lasting of materials. And there are others that are more hardwearing.

‘When it comes to material, you should consider not only an attractive pattern but also practicality for the living room,’ says Nataly Bolshakova, interior designer of Bolshakova Interiors. ‘For example, silk or paper wallpapers may be too delicate for areas where you entertain guests or where your children play. Vinyl wallpapers, which are not recommended for bedrooms, are more suitable for living rooms or bathrooms because they are thicker and more durable.’

5. Work with the shape of your room

When choosing where to wallpaper in a living room, consider working with the natural shape of the space. This may dictate which areas of a wall to decorate if you can't decide, and it might make the most sense visually too.

If you have a section of the wall that is recessed or sits further out, consider adding wallpaper to this to lean into the more statement angles.

6. Don't be afraid to wallpaper smaller spaces

It can often feel like wallpaper works best in large spaces where you can go all out with pattern and colour, but wallpapering small or narrow living rooms is having a resurgence.

Living rooms are synonymous with relaxation, so a cosy and welcoming environment is often just what you're looking for. Instead of adding a feature wall that might work in larger living spaces, consider wallpapering the entirety of the room. While this may seem daunting, the effect is high-end and inviting.

'The days of the feature wall are over,' announces textile designer, Clarissa Hulse. 'Plus you will be surprised at how it can actually make the room seem less busy! It may be counterintuitive, but often stark plain walls next to one that is highly decorative can actually emphasise the pattern.'

7. Clad a chimney breast in wallpaper

Just like working with the natural structure of a room, a chimney breast offers the perfect positioning for wallpaper. Living room fireplace ideas are a prime spot for accessorising with art, family photographs or your favourite accessories, so adding a playful wallpaper will extend a characterful look.

If you're unsure about opting for an entire feature wall, a chimney breast is a great middle ground. It's a good way to use pattern in interior design as It creates a focal point in the middle of the room but can be sandwiched in a block colour for a more versatile approach.

8. Contrast with another feature wall

When wallpapering a living room, it can be tempting to contrast with painted walls in areas without paper. Instead, opting for another statement wall feature, such as wall panelling, makes for an interesting design packed full of character.

Wood panelling is a great way of achieving this as the warm tones complement many wallpaper colours. You can even double up on wallpaper by opting for a panelled-effect design that achieves the look for less.

'If you have a modern house, using wallpaper with a printed texture is a brilliant way of injecting some character into a room. I recently covered my own newly built MDF bedroom cupboard doors with one of the plain textured wallpapers in my own collection, coupled with interesting door handles, and am delighted with the results,' says Clarissa.

9. Wallpaper above the dado rail

If you've fallen for a patterned paper but don't want it to dominate your space, reconsider where to wallpaper. Stick to covering only above the dado rail, keeping the rail itself and the lower portion painted in a complementary tone.

This is also a great technique for small living room ideas as the pattern won't overwhelm by covering from the floor to the ceiling.

10. Embrace a retro motif

Mid-century living rooms are having a serious moment right now - who among us hasn't picked up some retro furniture? Enhance the feel of the era by choosing a vibrantly coloured print for your living room wallpaper ideas. Yellows, especially, echo this time period, and helpfully boost light levels.

11. Use a photorealistic mural

A surprisingly simple living room idea is to opt for adding photorealistic mural wallpaper. You can plump for whatever design appeals to you, but by choosing a design which echoes the nature outside you'll help blur the indoor-outdoor boundaries. This will make the room seem larger, brighter and feel altogether more calming.

These can look expensive, but they don't have to be. Wait for seasonal sales or use home decor discount codes to find bargains year round.

12. Reflect your flooring

Work your wallpaper in tandem with living room flooring ideas for a considered finish. Choose a design which reflects some sense of your flooring, perhaps the colour, pattern or texture. As well as opening up the room, this will add a cool design element to a simple project.

13. Wallpaper the lower half of your walls

Keep your bank account a little happier by looking to budget living room ideas for your wallpaper. Papering only the lower half of the room is a great way to save on costs and you'll need a lot less material to work with. This is also a useful trick if you only have a small amount of a discontinued wallpaper available.

14. Choose a classic floral print

Once seen as fussy and dated, or solely for country living room ideas, florals are back in the lime light and back on our walls.

'Floral living room wallpaper ideas wrap your walls in nature and tend to incorporate a number of colours,' notes Melanie Adams, global manager at WallpaperDirect. 'This can be a great way to really imbed your colour palette into the space to make it feel cohesive yet natural.'

15. Pair blues and greens

'The old adage may go 'blue and green should never be seen', but we disagree! Mix just about any blues with green (plus their sophisticated love child, teal) and you've got yourself an effortlessly harmonious blend that's vibrant yet calm and soothing at the same time.

A lot of arts and crafts styles of living room wallpaper ideas will have this combo, adding a neat nod to a stylish tradition.

16. Co-ordinate with your paint

Choosing wallpaper doesn't mean that living room paint ideas aren't also an option too. The two can actually work beautifully together, especially if you have any kind of panelling on your walls, but you want to pair your paper with the right shade.

'When pairing a wallpaper with paint it's important to match the paint with a hue used in the wallpaper,' advises Zoe Hopgood, designer at Graham & Brown.

17. Try a terrazzo print

Terrazzo is going nowhere as a trend, seen on floors and tiles alike. This cool pattern also works really well on wallpaper, giving the illusion of texture and adding just the right amount of pattern.

The design comes in any manner of colourways, so choose for pebbles to be in a tone that's complementary to, without overwhelming, the rest of the space.

18. Match with your window dressings

For a totally cohesive look, why not match your wallpaper with your living room curtain ideas? It's the ideal way to extend your chosen wallpaper design over window dressings and ensure there is no break in the pattern.

Many brands and designers will produce wallpaper, fabrics and accessories in the same print, so it's easy to keep to a matching look. If opting for full length curtains is a little too much pattern for your taste, try going for a couple of cushion covers in a matching print to your wallpaper, so the design is echoed more subtly around the room.

19. Amp up a rustic scheme

Use living room wallpaper ideas to add character to a decor scheme, such as in rustic living room ideas. Use a striking design to enhance the natural elements of your living room, such as woodland scene to add character to a cottage living room with exposed wooden beams and low ceilings.

Choosing a wallpaper design around your existing decor will create a subtle yet stylish approaching to decorating.

20. Create the illusion of a distressed finish

Where you're looking to add interest to wall surfaces but not wanting fully-on pattern, seek an alternative design that emulates the look of a distressed surface. By doing so your walls will ooze character and interest without overpowering the scheme by layering too much pattern.

21. Team turquoise with teak

If you have a fair amount of wooden furniture in your living room, from sideboards to dressers, coffee tables, side tables and perhaps even a hardwood floor too, it might be in serious need of some colour to lift the scheme. Punchy turquoise living room wallpaper ideas will bring vibrancy and life to your room, without becoming too bright and garish.

22. Zone a larger space

Use living room feature wall ideas to help zone a larger space. Use wallpaper to define areas, such as a reading nook, home office, or bar area. With open-plan spaces so commonly used, this is a useful way to visually break up these larger areas.

23. Make art from wallpaper

Make a statement of a wallpaper by framing it. This creative idea allows you to use a wallpaper in your living space, in a more imaginative way. It's great for not only adding a quirky touch to the decor, it's also great if on a budget. Only one roll will be required to cover a smaller section of wall.

24. Smarten up with pinstripes

Create a tailored, designer look in your living room with pinstripes – they look just as smart on your walls as they do on suits. Choose soft greys or pastels so the scheme doesn’t feel overly masculine, however.

25. Welcome in nature

Embrace the great outdoors and cover your wall in botanical beauties. Foliage, birds and florals are all traditional ways of dressing walls and will instantly make a space feel smarter. As classic as this is, it can stick work with modern living room ideas. Simply choose a design with a crisp white or dramatically dark background (rather than old school pastels) , depending on your aesthetic.

26. Proceed with a painterly pattern

Introduce brushstroke-style patterns in bold colours. Drawing on the work of French painters Bonnard, Monet and Seurat, painterly wallpaper pays homage to artistic spirit.

Impressionist-style living room wallpaper ideas effortlessly showcase the graduated, ombre-effect that we have all come to know and love.

27. Wallpaper furniture

Who says wallpaper needs to go on your walls? Make a striking statement in your living room by wallpapering a key piece of furniture, such as a sideboard. This is also a fantastic way to upcycle an old item that might otherwise end up at the tip. Go for wood or brick-effect wallpaper for an on-trend trompe l’oeil look.

FAQs

Where to buy wallpaper?

When deciding on a new wallpaper scheme for your home, the first step will be finding where to shop so that you can explore different options.

There are so many shops, both online and bricks and mortar, where you can browse through different patterns and colour palettes. If you're shopping online then we always recommend ordering a sample where possible so you can check out the texture and tones in person.

Here are a few of our top places to shop for wallpaper:

• Wayfair are a firm favourite for hundreds of different wallpaper choices
• Wallpaper Direct features some of the top collaborations from designers we love, like Clarissa Hulse
• I Love Wallpaper has a huge range of patterned papers in modern prints
• Dunelm offers great wood-panel effect wallpapers and self-adhesive options
• John Lewis - we love their ANYDAY range for affordable style
• Amazon is the go-to for finding what you need quickly and easily

What type of wallpaper is best for a living room?

It can be tricky to know where to start when choosing a wallpaper for your living room, but choosing a design that you love and excites you is a good place to start. You might also want to consider the size of your room and also its positioning.

'When choosing your living room wallpaper ideas it’s important to note whether the room is north or south facing,' advises Zoe from Graham & Brown. 'If the room faces south then it will get a lot of sunlight, allowing the use of the cooler colours in the spectrum, however a north facing room will need warmer colours to make the space feel cosy. Using a patterned wallpaper creates a focal point for the room – try pulling colours from it using accessories to create a cohesive interior style.'

Also think about how you want to feel in when you're in your living room and how it is being used. Is it a place to entertain? To relax? To multi-task as a home office? Once you know how the space will be used, you can start to think about whether you want a more invigorating, colourful design or a calming, muted one.

Where do I put wallpaper in a living room?

Before you start wallpapering away, make sure you consider where a pattern or design will enhance the space and what sort of statement you want the room to make.

'Many living rooms tend to have an existing focal point, such as a fireplace or entertainment system and so it’s not always recommended to have a conflicting feature wall,' notes Melanie Adams from Wallpaper Direct. 'Consider using living room wallpaper ideas on all four walls that complements the focal point for a more visually relaxing result.’

Just remember that whatever wallpaper you pick or whichever wall you choose to cover, be confident in your choice and know that it can always be recovered or painted if you change your mind.

When it comes to sprucing up your home with colour, pattern and even texture, wallpaper ideas are the go-to solution. Whether it's the living room, bedroom, home office or hallway, there's a wallpaper trend to suit every single space, taste, and budget. From bold geo design to pretty florals, you can find a pattern that speaks to your vision.

And you don't need to wallpaper a whole room to enjoy the pop of personality wallpaper offers. Of course, walls are the obvious place for wallpaper, but you could also use it to upcycle a dresser, paper a panel to sit behind a sofa or bed, or even add a hint of pattern to your kitchen island.

So when you're planning your next easy DIY project, make sure to give wallpaper the focus it deserves. Be inspired by these imaginative ways to add wallpaper to any room of the house for an easy interiors pick-me-up.

Wallpaper ideas 

Wallpaper went through a few bleak years, but in 2023 it is back with a serious bang according to wallpaper and interior design experts. ‘The past few years have dramatically changed people’s approach to their interiors and we are seeing consumers really finding their own sense of colour confidence in their homes,' says Ruth Mottershead, creative director, Little Greene. 

We've sourced our favourite wallpaper ideas to inspire you to add more colour and pattern to your home. 

1. Add whimsy to a bedroom scheme

If a traditional bedroom design is what you're looking to achieve, then it's hard to go wrong with a floral wallpaper idea. Small-scale, hand-painted bedroom wallpapers will add to a classic aesthetic and will make a space feel warm, inviting and full of whimsy. 

'If you’re decorating a smaller room, using large scale patterns and light and bright colours within a space can draw attention to the style of the room as opposed to the size,' advises Chelsea Clark, head of brand at Lust Home. Instead, focusing on an intricate pattern will make it feel purposefully cosy. It's worth understanding how to use pattern in interior design to help you find a design that works for your space. 

2. Use it as a decorative splashback

If you're looking for a statement kitchen design that is easy to remove if your taste changes, then a kitchen wallpaper idea is the way forward. You may be thinking we’ve gone mad suggesting you use wallpaper as a kitchen splashback idea, but, there are two options – you can use wallpaper and cover it with glass, or use one of the new revolutionary wallpapers that are designed specifically for kitchens and are both water and heat resistant. 

Flower & Marble by Limelace is a pvc wallpaper that will create a decorative splashback or use it as an accent wall on a kitchen wall instead.

3. Match your wallpaper and woodwork

Before painting interior windows, make sure you settle on your wallpaper choice first to match the two. ‘As wallpaper is one of the easiest ways to update a room and covers the majority of the surface area, it is a good idea to use wallpaper as your starting point,' says James Watson, managing director, 1838 Wallcoverings. 

'Take the lead from the colour palette within the design, introducing 2-3 of the colours and including these across the other elements of the room to tie the overall space together.'

'Also, don’t feel limited to white woodwork, in fact choosing tonal colours that work with the shades in the wallpaper design will not only bring a unique, contemporary finish to the space, but will be less of a clash with white, which can be quite stark in contrast,' 

This is especially chic as a hallway wallpaper idea to make an arguably hard to decorate space more stylish. A pictorial wallpaper will help create added interest to a scheme, choose one like 1838 Wallcovering’s Peacock Topiary in Fern which has plenty of colours to match the paint to. 

4. Fake the look of wall panelling

Wall panelling is a trend that we've seen pop up in various rooms around the home, all over our Instagram feeds. And it's no surprise that it's so popular - ait's a simple way to create a high-end look, and you can DIY it yourself. 

However, if you're looking to avoid any larger DIY projects, then you can fake the look with a panelled-effect wallpaper. To the naked eye it will give your wall a 3D-effect, but without the faff. We'd recommend using this as a living room wallpaper idea to make your sofa-space look more expensive. 

5. Put wallpaper in the frame

When looking to inject pattern to walls but you can't decide on which wallpaper design to favour, this idea is perfect! Create a gallery wall idea by framing samples of your favourite designs instead. 

Frame samples or offcuts in identical frames, using a white mount for a more formal effect, using different patterns in a similar colour palette to unify the look. Choose simple frames so the patterns on these dining room wallpaper ideas remain the point of focus.

6. Love pattern? Choose the same colour for walls and floors

Cohesion is what makes a scheme work and it can be in small or large amounts depending on what kind of look you want to achieve. 

‘When you are planning your design, it’s important to think about the unification of colour,’ says Punam Chada, carpet buyer, Carpetright. 

‘Opt for flooring that shares a similar tone with your wallpaper as this will help to create a coherent look and feel. This works especially well when, for instance, both prints feature on white backgrounds so you can continue using the same tone on your ceiling.

'You don’t necessarily need to use matching motifs. If you opt for pattern clash, run your wallpaper from floor to ceiling as this will help to make the scheme feel cohesive.’

This is a gorgeous way to make small home office ideas or any small room punch above its weight in the style stakes. 

7. Consider wallpaper instead of tiles

Bathroom wallpaper ideas are no longer a soggy no-no, in fact they can be a smart way to cut costs and mimic the look of tiles.

‘Renovating a bathroom is often time-consuming, costly and can cause a great deal of disturbance; however, shoppers can mimic the look of high-end tiling with artfully-designed wallpaper,' advises Dayna Isom Johnson, trend expert, Etsy. 

'With the average UK bathroom renovation costing £6,500, this is a great way to save pennies while still making a visual impact. And for the commitment-phobe, tile-inspired wallpaper is a great – and temporary – way to test out colours and shapes in a space without fully committing.'

Removable wallpaper is ideal for this and quick to use, check out this Moroccan tile removable wallpaper by Wonderw4llsBoutique.

8. Pick a design that mimics fabric

There are some wonderful wallpaper ideas to consider and this is one of our favourites, particularly for a bedroom.

‘Choose a wallpaper that resembles a vintage fabric, such as the ‘Lucia’ design, which is loosely based on seventeenth century crewelwork embroidery,' suggests Richard Smith, founder, Madeaux.

'This distressed floral wallpaper is created using various ageing processes so that the historical context of this design is softened to create something entirely new, which sits equally well with a paisley or a modern geometric print, bringing a timeless feel by incorporating a mix of contemporary and traditional styles.’ 

9. Mix prints with plains in a cloakroom

Interior design works best when there’s a visual balance and more often than not we tend to pick plains in a cloakroom but you can use both successfully. 

'Combining bold patterns in a downstairs cloakroom is a great way to add interest in what can be a dull room.  Don’t be afraid to use dark colours to create drama and have fun with quirky wallpapers. This jungle-themed wallpaper looks great here when combined with the luxurious marble-effect porcelain slab tiles,’ says Jo Oliver-Singh, director, The Stone & Ceramic Warehouse.

10. Make micro-stripes the focus

If you want to extend how spacious a room feels, while adding interest to a wall space, then micro-stripes will be a handy wallpaper idea. Not just reserved for seaside-inspired outdoor accessories, micro-stripes are making an impact on interiors too, most specifically in wallpaper and cushions. 

Thin stripes that run vertically will make a space feel larger and make a statement all the same. Plus, they're easy to accessorise with block colours or other prints.

11. Contrast with statement flooring

If you're looking for a wallpaper idea that wows, then why not go all out by mixing two statement patterns? 

'When pulling everything together, don’t be afraid to use a mixture of patterns and textures that complement each other. Decide on the room's feel and take a cue from the natural light, adding bolder colours in a room with ample light and reflective colours in those that are naturally darker,' adds Chelsea. 

It shouldn't feel like it works, but contrasting patterns through a wallpaper and bold flooring option is a simple way to make your home look more design-led. All it takes is the encouragement to go for it. 

12. Find a trendy look in red and pink

Focusing on a specific colour combination for your space will make it easy to find a wallpaper scheme that just works. Pink and red is an on-trend palette that looks unique, but is actually quite easy to style - so don't be put off by the bright appearance.  

By opting for two shades in a similar tonal palette, you can paint or decorate the rest of the space in a lighter shade variation so that the whole look is cohesive.

13. Wallpaper can take a back seat

Wallpaper doesn’t need to be the focal point of your scheme, in fact, it can be a subtle ‘background’ instead. 

‘This wallpaper collection was designed using the same prints as the fabrics, but the colours chosen for the walls were purposefully muted tones/pastels. This was to allow the wallpaper to work in any interior setting, having enough detail to stand out, but be subtle enough to introduce muted colour and pattern to the walls without overbearing the space,' says Emma Deterding, founder, Kelling Designs. 

'The Hearts & Minds design has been laid out in a way that from a distance, it almost looks like subtle stripes.'

14. Colour drench with wallpaper

You might have heard of colour drenching with paint, but you can do it with wallpaper too. A big home decor trend that started last year and one that shows no sign of disappearing. 

'There is a move away from white woodwork and skirting in favour of contrasting or coordinating colours on woodwork, and the continuation of the Colour Drenching trend, which takes a single, or closely related colour across all aspects of a space, from skirting and walls to ceilings and doors. This can be seen in the use of wallpapers too, with tonal designs being paired with coordinating colours to create cohesive immersive interiors,' says Ruth Mottershead, creative director, Little Greene. 

Little Greene’s Hoja wallpaper in Air Force Blue is great for colour drenching as it has a subtle pattern. 

15. Upcycle a chest with a pretty pattern

Make a cheap basic look expensive or revive a dated design with just a single roll of wallpaper. If you love a design but feel it may be too much to wallpaper the whole room in, this is a great way to add drama to your room without overpowering it. Or if you find a design that you love but it's just a little too pricey, then covering a small piece of furniture could be just the solution. 

It is a smart way to upcycle furniture or to upgrade a piece you've picked up for a song using home decor discount codes. Just remember to seal the wallpaper with clear matt varnish to prevent peeling.

16. Create a feature wall with wallpapered panelling

For an instant glam upgrade apply a beautiful mural for a living room wallpaper idea. Cut an illustrated scene to fit between your wall panelling ideas. It becomes like a view through a window. Choose a mural that depicts a view or a scene, rather than an all-over print for a truly magical feel. 

17. Cover a magnet board in a hero paper

Easy DIY wallpaper ideas are always a winner. Swap a scruffy looking pinboard for one covered in a graphic print. All you have to do is trim an off-cut of wallpaper to size and spray glue it to a magnet board. Choose an impactful print for a great way to add interest to a neutral wall or relieve an expanse of deep, block colour.

18. Upgrade a basic bunk bed with jungle print wallpaper

Use wallpaper paste to cover front bed panels with wallpaper for a brilliant kids' bedroom idea. Give the paper a coat of transparent varnish to help prevent knocks and scratches. Pick out a paint colour from the wallpaper and use it to paint the bottom half of a neutral bedroom wall, finishing with a fun scalloped detail.

For a super cool bed transformation make the bottom bunk into a cool hideaway. Remove the duvet and pillow and fill the space with cushions and blankets, books and plenty of fairy lights, for the perfect reading den.

19. Wallpaper the back of a kitchen island

Add a touch of pattern to a pared back scheme by wallpapering the back or a kitchen island. This eye-catching kitchen wallpaper idea is a great way to update an island (or kitchen dresser!). Use a hardwearing clear varnish to seal and protect it or get a made to measure sheet of perspex to layer over it. Black accents for accessories and flooring give this bespoke kitchen island uber-cool vibes.

20. Add pattern to the back of a display cabinet

Select a contrasting colour in a similar design, or go for a similar colour but with a very different pattern scale. This ensures that the cabinet wallpaper will stand out from the wallpaper ideas on the adjacent walls.

First, remove all shelving from the unit and wallpaper the back of the cupboard using wallpaper paste. Place the shelves back in and displaying co-ordinating kitchenware.

21. Revive a bland basic with textured wallpaper

Wallpaper is not just for walls. Use the design of your choice, to compliment the decor in any room where you wish to use this idea. Simply hang the lengths of wallpaper directly to the front of the doors. In in order for this to work best the doors need to be smooth, meaning no decorative beading or framing.

22. Welcome nature in with bold terrarium-inspired designs

Select leafy motifs on wallpaper, from tropical foliage to vintage sketchbook designs, to make a great style statement. It could be a lot for a living room, but great fun for the smallest rooms of the house, like in this dark bathroom idea. Stop the pattern from becoming overpowering by panelling the lower part of the room and painting in a deep green, pick the paint colour by matching it to a colour found in the wallpaper.

23. Create a piece of art

Fashion a feature wall idea with a difference by framing a section of wallpaper. Either paper directly to the wall and frame, or back the paper. onto a large sheet of MDF to make it a moveable piece – more authentic as a piece of artwork. Paint the frame to match the wall for a more subtle effect. This trick creates a focal point and can be cheaper than artwork. It works best behind a sofa, bed or sideboard to zone or highlight an area.

24. Welcome wallpaper on stairs

Wallpaper ideas in the hallway needn't be confined to purely walls. We love this idea of introducing pattern and colour on the stair risers. Pieces of this Orla Kiely orange patterned wallpaper have been cut to fit the stair risers, pasted on and varnished to make the paper hardwearing – important in a high traffic area such as the stairs.

Thinking about how to wallpaper stairs is a winning hallway wallpaper idea but also worth considering in a newly converted loft space.

25. Get creative with recess spaces

Use wallpaper creatively to fill void spaces. This beautiful bedroom demonstrates how striking wallpaper ideas can act in place of artwork – used above a bed in the space between built-in wardrobes. This space would otherwise feel redundant, but instead it now anchors the whole scheme of the decor, thanks to the matching blue and green tones on the bedding and light fittings below.

It also helps to create the impression of a DIY headboard idea, and add a focal point to the room.

26. Cheat a dreamy headboard panel with wallpaper

This brilliant bedroom wallpaper idea fashions a feature wall-cum-headboard using wallpaper! Make your own boutique-hotel-style design feature by hanging a couple of drops of a striking wallpaper behind the bed.

 To really add a design wow factor create neat raised edges with wooden battens covered in matching fabric – but this finish is optional if you want less work.

27. Contrast colour with a feature wall

If choosing to decorate with a powerful paint colour, such as this olive green bedroom idea, a patterned wallpaper can be just the tonic to create a contrasting feature wall. 

Where colour would normally play the star role on the feature wall, instead add a characterful wallpaper design to complete the look. This paper features a design with illustrated house in soft grey and white, to compliment a white ceiling and white painted floorboards.

28. Divide a wall with pattern

Avoid overpowering a room by using your wallpaper only up to a point. Taking it up to the level of a traditional picture rail – rather than all the way to the ceiling – and keeping a clapboard finish above the rail height helps to keep the pattern in check without reducing its impact.

29. Hang stripes horizontally to widen a space

Just because a room is small doesn't mean it has to be filled with neutral tones. If used correctly, a bold pattern can help to make a small space feel more impactful. 

Stripes hung horizontally is a savvy decorating tactic to trick the eye into thinking the room is wider than it really is. This super stylish black and white bedroom idea sports effortlessly sports a black and white stripped design on the far wall, leaving the remaining walls in a forgiving soft shade of grey.

30. Include the ceiling in the scheme

Why leave the ceiling out? For many years now the powers that be in the interiors world have been telling us how fashionable wallpapering the 5th wall is. Would you be so bold? 

We'd say it works if the room is big enough to allow, in an already small space a wallpapered ceiling could overwhelm – making it feel even smaller. For best results choose a paper in light colour choice to ensure the space still feels bright and airy.

• Cover box files or binder files to coordinate with the decor of a home office
• Back a display cabinet or an open shelving unit. Mount and frame patterned wallpaper like unique pieces of art
• Use as high-quality gift wrap, you can sometimes find a roll of wallpaper is less expensive than a roll of quality gift wrap

Wall panelling is a trend that we've seen pop up in various rooms around the home, all over our Instagram feeds. And it's no surprise that it's so popular - it's a simple way to create a high-end look, and you can DIY it yourself. 

However, if you're looking to avoid any larger DIY projects, then you can fake the look with a panelled-effect wallpaper. To the naked eye it will give your wall a 3D-effect, but without the faff. 

It's usually the smallest room in the house but come up with some downstairs toilet wallpaper ideas and you've got yourself a space that is sure to make a statement. 

Whether you keep it classy or go all-out whacky, this compact room offers a chance for you to unleash some creativity with your small bathroom ideas and impress the many guests it will no doubt see. You can play around with colour and pattern, and choose something you might not be brave enough to use in a larger living space. 

Bathroom wall ideas often list wallpaper as one of the easiest ways to add drama to a room, but when it come to choosing a print, colour and theme, it can be tricky to know where to start. And then which part of your downstairs toilet ideas do you wallpaper – all of the walls, or just one? 

Downstairs toilet wallpaper ideas

'Wallpaper is a wonderful way to add texture and character to a downstairs toilet,' says Ruth Mottershead, Creative Director at Little Greene. 'Consider a mural design to add a sumptuous and enchanting feel, creating a space that delivers a sense of escapism.'

Lucy St George, co-founder of Rockett St George, agrees: 'Wallpaper in a downstairs toilet is a great way to add an instant pop of pattern and colour,' she says. 'While wallpaper in the bathroom is often approached with caution, it shouldn’t be ruled out. The downstairs toilet is the perfect place to play around with more adventurous design decisions. As a smaller space, downstairs toilets can pull off bolder patterns and brighter colour palettes than other parts of the home.'

Ready to get started with some downstairs toilet wallpaper ideas? 

1. Try a tropical look

A palm-print paper is a fabulous way to give your downstairs toilet a taste of the tropics. If you don't want to go for something too bright, embrace a darker small bathroom colour scheme with shades of inky blue and deep forest green set on a black background. 

Bringing in small tropical-themed accessories, like a parrot ornament and plants, gives a nod to the theme, while gold light fittings, shelving and taps keep the look feeling luxe rather than tacky.

2. Map it out

Dare to be different with a map-print wallpaper that gives you something new to look at each time you visit your downstairs toilet. You could use a map that's local to your area, or maybe somewhere you'd like to visit – or why not go for one that shows countries and gives the kids an educational geographical element?

3. Go big and bold

While one wallpapered wall looks great in a downstairs toilet, don't underestimate the impact that having all walls papered can make as a striking wallpaper idea. Here, a bold leopard-print paper has been used throughout, and although the background of the paper is dark, the fact there is a window in the room and the ceiling and skirting has been kept white means the room stays feeling light and bright. 

'A small downstairs toilet is a fantastic room to embrace colour and pattern, creating a wow moment for you and your guests,' says Little Greene's Ruth Mottershead. 'Don’t be afraid to use rich, deep colours and all-over patterns, as these are transient rooms in which to add character and showcase your personality.' 

Note the perspex panel above the sink to protect the wallpaper from water splashes and the wood mirror that ties in with the orange-brown colour scheme. Ornate mouldings on the ceiling, a traditional-style sink and a thick fabric blind all bring a sense of luxury to the room.

4. Turn it terrazzo!

Terrazzo or ink-splotch prints are guaranteed to give your downstairs toilet an eye-catching look. If you can, think about wallpapering the wall directly in front of you as you open the door – that way you get the full effect of the pattern and if the door is left open at any time, it makes it a more decorative view. 

This under-the-stairs downstairs toilet idea has a wallpaper with a light background, which works well against the darker grey paint on the walls and door outside.

5. Make it modern

If your downstairs toilet has modern fittings, with curved loos or contemporary basins, then pick a wallpaper to match. Geometric or aztec prints are ideal for continuing that on-trend feel – and if you feel the print is a little too bold, why not use it on just half the wall above some wall panelling ideas?

6. Team wallpaper with tiles

If an entire room of wallpaper feels like it might be too much, why not add some wall tiles in too? Having been built out here to box in all the pipework behind the toilet, the tiled area also offers a display shelf, along with a splashback behind the sink.

Using plain white metro tiles as your cloakroom tile idea helps the wallpaper become the focus, with its fabulous flamingo print very much taking centre stage. Despite its bold print, the wallpaper's soft grey colour tone keeps it feeling light and far from overpowering, and the small hints of pink add a feminine feel.

7. Stay bright

Not for the fainthearted, this fun photographic wallpaper will almost certainly appeal to the colour splashers among you. The fun collage of iconic front covers gives you something to look at and it's easy to pick out a colour from the design to echo elsewhere in the room, as has been done here with the blue tiled splashback over the sink.

You could always make your own wallcovering, with your own choice of book (or magazine) covers, of course.

8. Don't forget the ceiling

Decorating the ceiling isn't only for living rooms and bedrooms – it can make your downstairs toilet really stand out. A creative bathroom wallpaper idea takes this small space from drab to fab, giving it the ultimate wow factor.

Here, a busy jungle print, Kingdom Lion wallpaper, £52 a roll from Graham & Brown has been used on all walls, and you'll see that by taking it onto the ceiling it helps draw the eye upwards and emphasise the room's height.

9. Fill it with florals

Give your downstairs toilet an uplifting floral or botanical theme with a wallpaper that fills it with blooms and leafy prints. This summery design has had its nature theme echoed with the use of wood (on the toilet seat and door), and a rustic terracotta pot and plant on top. All that's needed is a floral-scented candle or diffuser to really set the mood.

'Botanical wallpapers are always a winner, bringing a sense of calm through the connection to nature,' says Lucy St George. 'From leafy palm prints to oversized florals and colourful tropical landscapes, botanical wallpapers have a timeless appeal and balance natural calm with luxury.'

10. Create an illusion

Trompe l'oeil is a technique often applied to wallpaper to give it a 3D, optical effect, and you can see an example of that here with this one wall that looks as though it's a cabinet of drawers.

What we particularly like about this room, is that if you look closely at the wallpaper you'll see that some of the printed knobs have had real knobs screwed into the wall on top (with a set of keys hanging off of one of them), to make the drawers appear even more realistic. Clever!

11. Pair paper with panelling

When you can't decide between paper and paint, why not have both? Here, panelling at the bottom half of the wall has been painted a light blue, with the same colour picked out in the wallpaper pattern above.

This half-and-half design is also good if you think wallpaper might not work in a wet area behind the sink, and gives you the chance to put your creative skills to good use mixing and matching colours and prints.

Buy now: Hardy Palm wallpaper, £126 per roll, from the Botany collection, Paint & Paper Library

12. Have fun with animal print

Animal print never seems to go out of fashion, whether you're opting for leopard spots, snakeskin scales or wavy zebra stripes, like these. Ramp up the impact by using it on all walls for maximum effect, letting the print do the talking. There's no need for lots of accessories here – keep it simple, with neutral fittings and one statement piece, such as this large gold mirror.

Not confident enough to go so big and bold? Try using your animal print wallpaper on just one wall – or above some panelling, instead.

'For a beautifully bold look, dark and dramatic colours from bold black to graphite grey and midnight are perfect for statement bathroom schemes,' says Lucy St George. 'These colours create cosiness and the illusion of space, so are also ideal for smaller cloakrooms and downstairs bathrooms.'

13. Set the scene

Escape to foreign climes with a wallpaper that depicts a country or landscape of your choice. Whether it's a city scape, beach scene or architectural landmark, it's a great way to turn your toilet into an exotic room that guests won't be expecting.

14. Stay tonal

If you're more about texture and neutral colours, pick a wallpaper that adds interest without overpowering the room. Here, a subtle print called Mineral marble grey luxury geometric wallpaper, £70 per roll from 1838 Wallcoverings echoes the textures and colours used in the accessories by the sink, adding to the scheme without becoming the focal point.

15. Keep it classy

Ornate detailing, traditional fittings and high ceilings all cry out for a wallpaper that is just as classy in style, so consider not only your pattern but your choice of colour too.

Here, the wallpaper features a delicate woodland print, while the colour is the perfect match for the paintwork, creating a beautifully blended wall.

Can you wallpaper a downstairs toilet?

'Certainly! Any space can be wallpapered,' says Claire Greenfield, lead designer at Harlequin. 'Using wallpaper in a cloakroom can be incredibly effective, adding interest and personality to a space. Key considerations for a cloakroom to keep in mind will be the dimensions of the space – in particular cloakrooms under stairs which can have tricky angles, so ensuring you have properly measured the space is crucial.'

How can I make my downstairs toilet look nice?

Firstly, think about how you want your downstairs toilet to look. Would you like something bright and bold, or luxurious? Perhaps you'd like a theme, or something a bit more quirky?

'Due to the size and secluded nature of a downstairs toilet, this is a brilliant space to add a touch of fun,' says Claire Greenfield. 'The cloakroom is perfect to deviate from a home’s overall scheme, acting almost as a retreat from the everyday, and thus creating a more personal space. Dark patterns, like our "Enigmatic" or "Paeonia" prints would look far richer, creating a secluded sanctuary from the home. Bright patterns like our recently launched "Dahlia" can brighten a space that lacks lots of natural light, which can make a bathroom feel far more warm and homely.'

How do you revamp a downstairs toilet?

Start by seeing what needs replacing – is it the whole scheme, complete with fittings, or could you get away with just freshening up the walls and accessories? Next, decide where you'd like your wallpaper to go.  'It’s important to avoid wallpapering areas that will be regularly splashed with water and instead choose tiles for these spots,' says Lucy St George. 'However, other than that, there really are no rules!'

Lucy continues. 'One of our favourite choices for bathroom wallpaper at Rockett St George has to be chinoiserie. Featuring majestic birds, blossom trees and extraordinary garden scenes, chinoiserie designs also celebrate the beauty of the natural world. Long associated with luxury, introducing these patterns to your bathroom creates a display with instant impact and is guaranteed to impress any guest.'

Wallpaper is the perfect way to inject pattern, colour, depth and even texture into your home, whether you’re redecorating your spare bedroom or giving the living room a little update. But just like any other trends, wallpaper trends, too, tend to change and evolve as the seasons and years pass.

But if anything, 2025 seems to be full of bold wallpaper ideas that are set to only grow in popularity as we get deeper into the year – there’s truly no holding back when it comes to decorating our homes this year. So be ready to have fun as there’s very little space or tolerance for boring or safe wallpaper choices in 2025.

Caroline Woolmer, head of product design at Henderson Design Group, advises how to approach these fresh new home decor trends. ‘Embrace 2025’s wallpaper trends by balancing bold choices with thoughtful styling to create spaces that feel personal and inviting. Use wallpaper to add warmth and depth to minimalist interiors or to introduce character and charm to smaller spaces.’

Lauren Kavanagh, art director at Hovia, adds, ‘Today, people are seeking wallpapers that reflect craftsmanship and quality, opting for designs that feel personal and timeless. It’s all about creating spaces that resonate with individuality, and will stand the test of time.’

1. Play around with fun motifs

Speaking of having fun and embracing individuality, this leads us to one of the biggest trends of the year – which is simply to express yourself, your quirks, personality and interests through your home decor, including your wallpaper.

‘As we spend more time in our homes, we have seen a shift in trends that are all about creating interiors that are personal, expressive, and unapologetically you,’ Caroline at Henderson Design Group says.

This links perfectly to the biggest home trends for 2025 from the Pinterest Predicts report called Primary Play – and the trend gave inspiration to Pinterest’s first ever physical product launch, created in collaboration with Poodle & Blonde. And incidentally, it’s a wallpaper!

‘We've always wanted to do some kind of product, especially around Pinterest Predicts, because it just makes so much sense to launch products that you know are going to succeed, because you know this thing's going to trend,’ says Louise Richardson, EMEA consumer marketing director at Pinterest. ‘We got chatting to Poodle & Blonde, who have just been the most amazing partners and are huge on Pinterest already. And wallpaper seemed achievable. And obviously, Pinterest is so dominant in interiors. We love the fact that they've taken Primary Play, which is one of the home trends, and turned that into a wallpaper.’

She elaborates on the trend itself, ‘Primary Play, which is what the Margate wallpaper is based on, is about being yourself, about self expression. It's things that you didn't think you'd be allowed to have on wallpaper. But why not have a wallpaper with hand-drawn sketches of seagulls or the Margate Lido? It's really about giving yourself permission to do that. I think that certainly we're seeing that show up everywhere in homes. And if you look at the data, you'll see that it's also definitely rooted in murals or painting on furniture. I think there's also an edge to it about creativity as well. So it's not just about buying these things for your home, but it's also about creating these things yourself, drawing on your own or taking a sharpie to a dresser and seeing what happens.’

2. Go for earthy shades

Opting for earthy shades is one of the biggest paint trends of 2025. But it’s also one that makes a crossover to wallpaper. Whether it’s brown in line with Pantone’s colour of the year, Mocha Mousse, or terracotta, the trending colours are both cosy and grounding.

‘In terms of colour, earthy tones will be popular – think terracotta, deep greens and muted brown,’ says Paula Taylor, head stylist and trend specialist at Graham & Brown. ‘Graham & Brown’s wallpaper and colour of the year, Elderton will mix nicely with these.’

Caroline at Henderson Design Group agrees, ‘Rich, dark earthy tones like deep greens and burnt oranges create warmth, drama, and depth. While some earthy tones carry over, they’ve been reimagined with more dramatic, personalised touches to reflect the shift toward expressive, statement-making interiors.’

3. Bring the outside in big time

Nature-inspired motifs never truly go out of style, especially as we’ve been enchanted with biophilic design over the past few years, wanting to bring the outside in more and blur the lines between the outside and our interiors. But what evolves are the ways in which we deliver those botanical themes – and 2025 is about going as big as possible.

‘Nature-inspired prints will dominate, with large-scale florals, forest motifs, and landscape murals bringing a biophilic touch to interiors and fostering a connection to the outdoors. Nature-inspired designs and eco-friendly materials reflect the growing demand for interiors that connect us to the outdoors and support wellness-focused living,’ Caroline at Henderson Design Group.

But when it comes to murals, it’s more about painted and drawn designs as photographic murals fall out of favour in 2025.

‘Photographic wall murals can often feel outdated and restrict design flexibility,’ says James Mellan-Matulewicz, CEO and creative director at Bobbi Beck. ‘Fewer people are inspired by images like a photographic forest on their wall, instead favouring hand-painted or digitally drawn landscape murals for a more artistic and timeless appeal.’

4. Embrace tradition with heritage prints

Whether it’s pretty motifs like toile de jouy or vintage-style, large-scale murals, this year’s wallpaper trends look to the past for inspiration.

‘Heritage-inspired designs draw from Victorian florals and Art Nouveau motifs, offering nostalgic charm with a contemporary twist. Heritage patterns tap into timeless, nostalgic vibes, bringing character and charm to modern homes. Heritage-inspired wallpapers are also evolving with more modern twists on classic styles,’ Caroline at Henderson Design Group says.

James at Bobbi Beck continues, highlighting the appeal of Colonial-style wall murals, ‘The allure of vintage murals lies in their ability to transport us to another time and place. This trend reflects the growing appreciation for craftsmanship and artistry, as homeowners seek to infuse character and depth into their interiors.’

5. Drench with wallpaper

Colour drenching has been a prominent paint technique in home decorating for over a year now. And while colour drenching is not going anywhere, this year, homeowners are going even bolder by doing the same - covering all the surfaces of a room, from all the walls to the ceiling, in the same finish - but with wallpaper.

‘Total immersion was something we started to see last year and this trend will be going strong in 2025 with wallpaper patterns completely wrapping the walls and ceiling,’ says Esme Amberg, head of design at The Roost.

Caroline at Henderson Design Group agrees, ‘In 2025, the trend of the subtle accent walls is evolving, with full room wallpapering taking centre stage, offering a more dramatic aesthetic.’

6. Look up to the ceiling

Similarly to immersing the entire room in wallpaper, there’s been a trend of wallpapering the ceiling, a part of the room usually somewhat forgotten about and left white. You can either do this as part of drenching the space with wallpaper or specifically highlighting the ceiling by putting a contrasting wallpaper up there, much like Layton Williams has done in his kitchen last year.

‘In 2025, more people will be asking themselves, is it just a ceiling or is it an additional wall space waiting to be transformed?’ says Catherine Jacob, head of design at Hovia. ‘The new year will see the ceiling evolve from an often-overlooked feature to a statement-making canvas. We’re seeing an increase in customers using our murals on their ceilings. It’s an exciting way to transform a room and our customers are always blown away when they see what adding a ceiling mural can do to a space.’

FAQs

What wallpaper never goes out of style?

While trends come and go, there are certain wallpaper styles that are timeless and you can never go wrong with.

‘Timeless wallpaper designs are those that strike a perfect balance between classic appeal and versatility,’ says Caroline Woolmer at Henderson Design Group. ‘Neutral tones, subtle textures and simple patterns remain evergreen choices, as they complement a wide range of interiors without overwhelming a space. Floral and botanical prints, especially in soft, muted hues, also stand the test of time, adding a sense of natural charm to any room.’

Lauren Kavanagh at Hovia adds, ‘Striped wallpaper is a timeless classic that never goes out of fashion. Its versatility offers endless possibilities, making it a perfect choice for adding subtle patterns or making bold, striking statements in any space.’

What wallpaper trends will be out in 2025?

As already mentioned, photographic murals are on their way out in 2025. ‘Photographic murals are a trend best left in 2024,’ says Lauren Kavanagh at Hovia. ‘These styles of wallpaper have been steadily falling out of favour in recent years and no longer feel relevant as we step into 2025.’

But there are some other wallpaper styles that don’t feel as relevant this year as they once did. ‘The fake brick and wooden slats may have reached their peak and are being taken over by limewash and polished concrete effects,’ says Paula Taylor at Graham & Brown.

Overall, wallpaper is set to be big this year so whichever trend or style you end up going for, just don’t be shy to really go for it.

When it comes to small spaces like bathrooms, en-suites and cloakrooms, creating an impact with the decor can be a challenge. While tiles and paint are the go-to choices, for a quick and easy alternative, bathroom wallpaper ideas are an instant winner that can transform a small bathroom idea beautifully.

‘Often overlooked as an option when it comes to decorating a bathroom, wallpaper is a fairly easy and inexpensive way to breathe new life into an outdated space,’ says Chelsea Clark, Head of Brand at I Love Wallpaper. ‘As an area of high humidity and moisture, a wallpaper with a vinyl coating or scrubbable finish can provide extra durability, and there are now plenty of choices when it comes to picking a wallpaper suitable for a bathroom.’

Bathroom wallpaper ideas

‘We’re always being asked if you can use wallpaper in a bathroom. We say, yes - of course you can!’ says Jamie Watkins, Co-founder, Divine Savages. ‘A properly ventilated bathroom will happily accommodate wallpaper. Embracing pattern in a small room is great and can actually make it seem bigger, plus it’s the room all guests are bound to see when they pop over, so it’s a chance to have a bit of fun and experiment, creating maximum impact.’

With our inspiring suggestions below it’s easy to see why wallpaper is such a popular decorating choice for bathroom ideas.

1. Go bold with an oversized print

While regular wallpaper isn’t recommended in damp and humid spaces, specialist bathroom wallpaper is designed to cope with steamy conditions, so is a brilliant way of brightening up a dull and dreary small bathroom layout on a budget.

Contour wallpaper has a 3D effect that can be used to mimic the look of tiles, marble, mosaic or simply to showcase an eye-catching print (like this bold botanical) and can be hung as easily as standard wallpaper, but with a splashproof and wipe-clean finish.

2. Find the right spot

‘Steer clear of applying wallpaper to areas that experience a lot of splash back, such as around a bath, shower, or sink, or pair with complimentary tiles, for some extra protection,’ advises Chelsea at I Love Wallpaper.

‘It's also important to ensure the area remains well-ventilated by keeping windows and doors open or using an extractor fan. This is especially important during application, to prevent any peeling. If you’re looking to use standard wallpaper, we recommend using an extra strong wallpaper adhesive to avoid lifting.’

3. Pretty up a plain scheme

Bathrooms are home to lots of cold, hard surfaces that can make the space feel quite stark and clinical. Get around this by bringing in bathroom colour ideas and pattern that will add warmth and help to soften any harshness.

The area above the basin makes a prime spot for a panel of patterned wallpaper. Out of the direct splash zone, choosing a pretty chinoiserie or floral in a delicate colourway will bring softness to plain white tiles and fittings and pretties up the space for the cost of a roll of wallpaper.

4. Pick a print to compliment tiles

‘Small spaces are the ideal place to go big and bold, with all the impact of the wallpaper at less cost,’ says Jamie at Divine Savages. ‘Create exciting design moments by pairing tiles with a bold wallpaper. A particularly pleasing look, especially when using a single accent colour like this dark bottle green.’

Dark colours can work well in small spaces and used throughout can have the same space-expanding effect as a pale colour scheme. Go for glossy bathroom tile ideas and sanitaryware, teamed with mirrors and plenty of metallic accents on fixtures and fittings to add extra sparkle to a dark scheme.

5. Stretch space with stripes

Horizontal stripes are a clever visual trick that designers often use in compact spaces, helping to lengthen walls and make a small bathroom feel bigger. Focus on just one wall and opt for simple bands of colour that will draw the eye along and stretch the space visually.

In a low-ceilinged bathroom, try a wallpaper with vertical stripes that has the opposite effect to horizontal and will make walls appear taller and the ceiling higher. Clean lines and simple shapes are easier on the eye and can feel less chaotic in tight spaces.

6. Pair panelling with a print

Keeping wallpaper out of the splash zone is the easiest way to protect it from water damage. Instead of tiling the lower portion of wall, panelling makes a stylish alternative that can be painted a myriad of shades and is easily changed should you fancy a different colour later down the line.

Colour match wallpaper with wall panelling ideas for a co-ordinated look. With a bright and bold design like this one, pick an accent colour from within the wallpaper design to provide some visual contrast. The bold teal - or the deep red - contrasts with the old gold background colour to give a warm, rich look.

7. Go with the faux

Mimic the look of tiled walls with a faux-tile wallpaper that looks just like the real thing but is far less-fiddly and time-consuming to put up. Made with a splash proof vinyl-coated finish, the wallpaper has a contoured surface with grout lines that look and feel realistic to the touch.

‘Paste-the-wall’ wallpapers are an easier and less-messy option than standard wallpapers, meaning that the paste goes directly onto the walls, with no pre-soaking or sticky paste table required.

8. Go for large-scale pattern in a bigger bathroom

If you have the space go big and bold with the pattern to allow the design of the bathroom wallpaper to dominate. Match the tones within the paper design to that of your bathroom tile ideas to ensure a cohesive colour scheme, to balance the overall look.

9. Make a bold statement with colour

Use a wallpaper with a vibrant background colour as a small bathroom idea to enliven the space and make it feel more impactful. Using the bright wallpaper on a wall with windows will help to illuminate the space and also prevents the wall from feeling overpowering – thanks to the blocks of natural daylight breaking through the pattern.

10. Draw on pattern to distract from radiators

Use bold pattern on walls where you may wish to distract from fixtures and fittings. Perhaps you have an unattractive radiator or an overbearing towel rail that you want to conceal. Statement bathroom wallpaper ideas can go a long way to drawing attention away from the other bathroom wall features. Colour coordinate towels to the wallpaper to camouflage them into the background.

11. Bring hothouse style to an all-white suite

There are few better ways to add colour to white bathrooms than with bathroom wallpaper ideas. A tropical design like this can be complemented with real plants and towels in accent shades of aqua and pink. The pattern was actually designed by the bathroom's owner – if you fancy having a go yourself, you could use a website like Bags of Love.

12. Match the paint

Paint your walls, woodwork - or if you have it - panelling in the same shade as the background colour of your chosen bathroom wallpaper as a colour drenching effect. This modern toile from Timorous Beasties looks gorgeous with the matching paint colour and heritage style sanitary-ware.

13. Invite a glimpse of pattern

Wallpaper doesn't actually have to be in the bathroom to enjoy the effect. If you have an open ensuite like the one shown here, papering a wall next to the bathroom in a bold palm print will bring colour and pattern to the space without overwhelming it. Adding in a real plant or two will unite the two rooms.

14. Pick something a little different

If you're wallpapering a bathroom it's generally not a huge area to cover, particularly if you steer clear of the wet bath or shower areas, so it's a good chance to, erm, splash out on a more expensive or unusual wallpaper and have some fun.

15. Maximise impact by papering a single wall

Using bathroom wallpaper ideas to create a feature wall is a proven way to make a statement. An added advantage of going for one feature wall in the bathroom is that you can target a wall furthest away from water. Plus, the smaller the area, the less wallpaper you’ll need so you may be able to afford that designer roll you’ve been coveting!

FAQs

Which type of wallpaper do I need for a bathroom?

Most wallpaper is labelled according to use, and those suited to high-moisture rooms like kitchens and bathrooms are invariable vinyl. ‘Scrubbable’ wallpapers that are made from heavyweight vinyl 
or vinyl-coated are the best options, but also look for rolls labelled ‘extra washable’ or ‘highly wash-resistant’.

If you have your heart set on bathroom wallpaper that’s only marked ‘spongeable’, or not cleanable at all, it’s possible to boost its resilience using Polyvine’s Decorators Varnish. Use the Dead Flat version, which won’t alter the paper’s colour, and do a test patch first. Don’t forget to add the cost to your budget. A one-litre pot costs around £10.50 and will cover 15-20sq m. For best results, apply two to three coats.

Can I paper all the walls in a bathroom?

Yes, as long as you have a decent circumference of tiles around the bath and basin – aim for at least 60cm between water and wallpaper. But while maximalism is on trend, bathrooms are usually small, so if you're going all out do choose a soothing design that won't kick off your day with a headache.

A feature wall is a smart choice. You can afford to go much bolder and it's easier to keep your bathroom wallpaper ideas away from splashes.

Is wallpaper safe inside a shower?

No, but you can get 100 per cent waterproof wall coverings that look like bathroom wallpaper ideas and don't have the grout issues associated with tiles. For example, the Wall&Deco system available from West One bathrooms. It's expensive though and requires specialist installation. A cheaper option is to wallpaper behind a sealed glass shower enclosure or screen.

Feeling inspired? All you need to do now is decide on a print and dedicate a weekend (or call in a professional) to bring the look to life.