Wallpaper has a reputation for being expensive, difficult to install, and even harder to remove. In reality, it’s one of the most versatile tools in a designer’s kit — and with today’s options, it can be remarkably easy to work with. If you’re trying to choose wallpaper that suits your space and your lifestyle, these four tips will help you get there.
1. Start With Your Intent
Before you get into patterns, colours, or materials, think about what you want the wallpaper to do. Are you after a soft, textural background that lets other elements take centre stage? Do you want to layer in some personality and warmth? Or are you ready to make a bold statement — a room that has a real point of view the moment you walk in?
Knowing your intent first makes every decision that follows much easier.
2. Think About the Room’s Purpose
The right wallpaper for a child’s bedroom looks very different from what works in a formal living room. Scale, pattern, and colour should all respond to how the space is used and who’s using it. A playful print feels at home in a kid’s room; something quieter and more refined suits a sitting room or primary bedroom.
Material matters here too. In a bathroom, you’ll want something washable — luxury peel-and-stick wallpaper is a great option, with the added benefit of being removable and repositionable if you ever want to change things up.
3. Think Beyond the Walls
Wallpaper doesn’t have to stay on the walls. Some of the most interesting applications are elsewhere entirely. Try it on a ceiling for an unexpected moment of drama. Apply it to the backs of built-ins or bookcases to add depth and personality. Or use it on dresser or vanity drawer fronts — either matching the surrounding walls for a seamless, elevated look, or choosing a contrasting pattern for something that really pops.
4. Consider the Material
Traditional wallpaper installation can be a significant investment of time and money, and removal isn’t always straightforward. That’s part of why peel-and-stick wallpaper has become such a popular choice — it’s removable, repositionable, and washable, making it a practical solution for almost any room in the house. It’s also ideal for renters who want to personalize their space without making permanent changes.
When you choose wallpaper in a peel-and-stick format, you’re not compromising on quality. Today’s luxury options look and feel just as considered as traditional wallpaper — with a lot more flexibility built in.
Photography by Kim Jeffery (1), Stacey Brandford (2)
