It’s back!  Wallpaper is no longer just rows of flowery blooms that graced the walls of living rooms that I remember as a child, but has returned as a trend of 2023 that many people can’t ignore.  Whether you want to start small or go all in (wallpaper on the ceiling anyone?), here are some ways that you can incorporate wallpaper into your home.

Determine the pattern

There are many different patterns and prints of wallpaper out there today.  Some of the most popular for 2023 include:

  • Textured:  You can add an additional layer of interest to your room through the use of textured wallpapers.  Some textures display patterns like a mid-century geometric pattern or cross hatches that mimic the look of natural leaf fibers.
  • Florals:  Big bold floral patterns, dark paper with metallic touches, or retro patterns of the seventies are all popular choices.
  • Stripes:  Classic bold stripes or thinner ones hung vertically or horizontally are both on trend.  
  • Go Big:  Hey, if you are going to go for wallpaper, then why not go bold.  Large scale patterns, best suited for a large wall in a large space, are also a popular wallpaper trend this year.  Whether it’s an abstract print, geometric pattern, or mural this will be a focal point in your home.

Determine the type of wallpaper

The most challenging part of adding wallpaper to a room is the actual process of hanging it on the wall.  Luckily, while this step in the process is still the most tedious, glue isn’t the only option out there. 

  • Temporary commitment:  Maybe you want to try out the wallpaper trend, but aren’t sure you’ll love it.  Unlike in the past where getting rid of unwanted wallpaper meant spending hours scraping or steaming a wall, now there are removable options of wallpaper.  Removable peel and stick papers are like giant stickers.  Find a pattern, try it out, and if you do not love it, it is easy to remove.
  • Keeping it for a long time:  If you are ready to commit, you can purchase wallpaper with the adhesive already attached to the back of the paper or without it.  Today there are even more environmentally friendly glue options out there.

Decide the material

Wallpapers come in a variety of materials from one hundred percent paper to vinyl.  Each materials has it’s pros and cons.  Vinyl, for example, is the most durable but can also have a shine to it.  Some wallpapers are better suited for high traffic areas of your home over others. Amanda Keim-Morrison’s “Guide to Different Types of Wallpaper”   did an amazing job summarizing all the types out there.

Decide where to put wallpaper

  • Start small: Smaller rooms, like a powder room, are great places to start hanging wallpaper.  If you are a do it yourself type of person, then take a deep breath before beginning and remind yourself that patience is a virtue.  While hanging wallpaper is not impossible, it does take a little practice.
  • Have help Lining up the paper perfectly, using a level, or brushing on glue can best be accomplished with some help.   Having an extra set of hands and eyes can make the process go smoother.

Use wallpaper in other ways 

Wallpaper doesn’t just have to be for walls.  Think about the back of bookcases or placing it in an oversized frame as a way to incorporate the trend into your home.  People are even putting wallpaper on furniture!

Wallpaper is another way that you can personalize your home. Like paint, it can make a big impact in a space. I am curious to see if I notice it while showing homes around Locust Grove or in model new construction ones. Would you try your hand at this trend?