Wallpaper often sparks strong opinions—people tend to be firmly for it or firmly against it. There are passionate wallpaper enthusiasts and then everyone else.
Over the years wallpaper has gone through trends and cycles. Lately, though, it has enjoyed a resurgence. While some outdated, drab patterns still exist, today’s market offers a wide variety of fresh, exciting prints that can enliven any room.
Whether you rent or own, want a permanent installation or a temporary change you can update later, there are wallpaper solutions for almost every situation.
(image via Ali Budd Interiors)
Three Reasons I Prefer Temporary Wallpaper Right Now
I currently favor temporary wallpaper. Although the selection isn’t as extensive as traditional options, removable wallpaper fits my lifestyle for several reasons:
1. I’m renting. Temporary wallpaper is exactly that—temporary. When it’s time to move, removing it is straightforward, and the landlord won’t even notice a patterned past on the walls.
2. I like to refresh our home often. When I want to make a bold statement or add color to our white walls without painting, removable wallpaper is a quick, low-effort solution.
3. Permanent wallpaper can be difficult and time-consuming to remove.
(image via The Glitter Guide)
That said, if you’re ready to commit, permanent wallpaper offers advantages that may make it the better choice—especially if you want a luxurious print or textured material.
1. Greater variety. The traditional wallpaper world is vast. If you’re ready to commit, you’ll find a nearly endless array of patterns, textures, and finishes.
2. Durability. Traditional wallpapers are designed to last. If you own your home and don’t plan to move, a durable wallcovering can stand up to long-term use.
3. Environmental considerations. Many permanent wallpapers are paper-based and can be recycled when removed. Removable wallpapers are often polyester or vinyl and are less likely to be recyclable.
(image via Sarah Sherman Samuel)
Make a Statement in the Powder Room
If you’re wondering where to use wallpaper, the powder room is an ideal spot. It’s small—so wallpapering is cost-effective—and the bold pattern makes a delightful surprise for guests.
(image via Katarina Rulinskaya)
Add Visual Interest to the Bedroom
Instead of large-scale artwork, consider a wallpaper accent wall behind the bed. It brings color and pattern into a neutral room and can stand in for oversized art, especially in rooms with high ceilings.
Any opportunity to put a beautiful pattern on the wall is worth taking.
(image via Lonny)
Use Removable Wallpaper as a Rental-Friendly Kitchen Backsplash
If your rental doesn’t include a backsplash, removable wallpaper can protect the wall from cooking splatters and introduce character to an otherwise plain kitchen. It’s a practical, renter-friendly way to upgrade the space without permanent changes.
Favorite Wallpapers Available Now
Ready to experiment with pattern? Here are several wallpaper picks I love—many are available as removable options, too.
1. Coven from Maison C.
2. Azteca Sundance from Drop It Modern (available in permanent and removable)
3. Shaping Up from Chasing Paper (removable)
4. Shape Shifter Mural from Drop It Modern (available in permanent and removable)
5. View – Muted from Flat Vernacular
6. Echo Wallpaper in Dusty Rose from Lulu and Georgia
7. Sierra Southwest Wallpaper from Kate Zaremba (removable)
8. Dotted Line in Nude from Drop It Modern (available in permanent and removable)
9. Minimalist Nude Wallpaper from Lulu and Georgia
10. Girls in B&W from Spoonflower (available in permanent and removable)
11. Graffito Wallpaper in Teal Pearl from Kelly Wearstler
12. Marie in Beige from Wallpaper Direct
13. Paleolith from Cavern
14. Coquette Wallpaper in Midnight from Kelly Wearstler
15. Buka Patchwork Wallpaper in Blue from Wallshoppe (available in permanent or removable)
16. Bauhaus in Stone from Wallpaper Direct
Do you love wallpaper? Is there a room in your home that could benefit from a patterned wall? I’d love to hear where you’re adding wallpaper and how you’re using pattern to transform your spaces.