Top trends in wallpaper design

Once viewed as a labor-intensive endeavor, wallpaper has been transformed into an easy tool used to create powerful statements in every space. Available in beautiful colors and textures, this timeless decorating staple brings depth, dimension and character to homes and rentals. From peel-and-stick wallpaper to non-pasted designs, wallpaper lends itself to a variety of creative applications, be they full-room makeovers or small-yet-effective improvements. Here are some top wallpaper trends that are shaping today’s interior spaces: 

Handcrafted tile wallpaper – These wallpaper prints can feature simple shapes such as the squares and rectangles that evoke Moroccan clay zellige bathroom tile or intricate patterns and colors that mimic the charm of hand-painted tiles – adding depth, warmth and personality and making the room appear larger. Whether adorning a backsplash, lining a cozy alcove, or enveloping an entire room, this wallpaper design has the power to capture attention and spark conversation. 

Eco-friendly wallpaper – Consumers are more discerning than ever about creating an eco-friendly home and seeking products that contribute to the environment. Eco-friendly wallpaper, such as authentic grasscloth, has redefined the way we think about interior design. Consciously crafted using materials like natural fibers and water-based vegetable dyes, grasscloth wallpaper creates an inviting atmosphere that encourages relaxation and introspection while fostering healthier living spaces.   

Inlay wallpaper — One of the most captivating trends in wallpaper design is the use of mixed materials such as wood, grasses and more to create deconstructed patterns and unique layouts. This trend effortlessly brings the warmth and beauty of nature indoors, creating a connection between the natural world and living spaces.  

Inlay wallpaper often features intricate geometric designs and delicate detailing that mimic the craftsmanship of fine woodwork. One of the most striking aspects of inlay wallpaper is its versatility. It effortlessly complements a wide range of interior styles, from the timeless allure of traditional design to the sleek, minimalistic aesthetic of modern spaces. This adaptability allows homeowners and designers to experiment with various décor elements, blending and juxtaposing different textures, colors and furniture to create inviting interiors. 

Tropical and wildlife patterns — For those seeking to infuse their interiors with a sense of adventure – without leaving their comfort – tropical wallpaper is the perfect choice. These prints feature bold, vibrant patterns inspired by lush jungles and untamed landscapes. Faux skins and the culture behind the tropics take pride of place in a more abstract approach to flora and fauna.   

Vintage and romantic florals — These have seen a recent revival, offering a contemporary twist on a classic design, with intricate motifs and bolder color palettes that still create a sense of nostalgia and charm in a home. 

Moreover, the resurgence of vintage and romantic florals is a departure from the stark, minimalist designs that have dominated interior aesthetics in recent years. It introduces a welcome shift towards a warmer, beckoning ambiance, creating a sense of coziness and familiarity.  

DYO (design-your-own) wallpaper — Custom wallpaper has become a dynamic trend in home décor, giving homeowners and designers creative control over their spaces. This medium celebrates self-expression and allows for endless possibilities.  It’s a testament to the power of design to stir the soul.  

Jennifer Matthews is the co-founding chief creative officer of Tempaper & Co. For more, visit tempaper.com. 

Not just for walls 

Wallpaper has evolved beyond its traditional role of adorning walls. It also serves as a versatile medium for creative expression and design innovation. Unique applications of wallpaper have emerged, highlighting its adaptability and potential to transform various elements within a space:  

• Ceilings – Often overlooked, ceilings offer a vast canvas for creativity. Applying wallpaper to a ceiling can deliver a sense of drama, color or pattern that draws the eye upward, adding depth and visual interest to the room.  
• Furniture – Smooth-surfaced furnishings can be transformed into personal statements with the application of peel-and-stick wallpaper. Easily removable wallpaper can refresh dressers, desks, vanities and even side tables. 
• Staircase risers – Revamp a mundane staircase by adding peel-and-stick wallpaper to the risers. This creative touch introduces an unexpected pop of pattern or color with every step, transforming a functional element of the home into a visually appealing design feature. 
• Household items – Elevate the style of everyday household items by applying removable wallpaper. Serving trays, decorative boxes and other surfaces can benefit from a stylish upgrade. 

• Pet spaces and closets — Extend your design sensibilities to pet spaces and closets. Wallpaper can transform purely functional areas into visually appealing, stylish nooks that seamlessly integrate with the rest of your home’s décor. – Jennifer Matthews