Choosing House Wallpaper

Wallpaper has been around for centuries and is a versatile way to personalize your space. Whether you’re looking for florals, geometrics, or textured options, there are endless ways to add flair to your home.

The first step in choosing a house wallpaper is to find one that works with your design aesthetic. Look through magazines and websites for inspiration, then narrow down your search to the styles you’re most drawn to. Once you’ve found a wallpaper that speaks to you, order a sample. That may seem like an extra step that costs a little money, but it will help you ensure your wallpaper matches the rest of your decor.

Traditionally, wallpaper was printed in long rolls that were hung vertically on the wall. Patterns were designed to repeat, so pieces cut from the same roll could be placed next to each other and it would not be obvious where the seams occurred. Some early examples of this technique include Joseph Dufour et Cie’s c. 1830 panoramic scenic wallpapers of landscapes and trompe-l’oeil designs, which hang in the Diplomatic Reception Room at the White House, and Zuber et Cie’s c. 1797 and c. 1834 panoramic scenic and trompe-l’oeil prints that have been preserved in the Deutsches Tapetenmuseum (Kazan, Russia).

More recently, wallpaper has undergone a dramatic revival. A fashion for patterned walls has encouraged designers to experiment with larger, more assertive patterns. Advances in digital printing technology have also enabled artists and freelance designers to get involved by making bespoke wallpapers, such as those by Deborah Bowness and Tracy Kendall, or working with established fabric houses on limited-edition papers that feel more like installations than paperhanging. Firms like Glasgow’s Timorous Beasties have also helped to make wallpaper the essential background for a bold 21st-century lifestyle with their dark, edgy images of contemporary life.

While there is no doubt that a well-chosen house wallpaper can bring a stunning impact to your space, it is important to consider the maintenance required for the specific type of wallpaper you choose. Some wallpapers require special cleaning products, while others can be washed with a sponge. Washable wallpaper is an option that can help to reduce the amount of time you spend on maintenance and makes a great choice for spaces that are frequently used by children and pets.

Despite its challenges, wallpaper is a beautiful and effective option for any space. When properly maintained, it can last for years without losing its appeal or becoming a liability. Moreover, it can be as beautiful as paint and is a more durable alternative to paint in areas that receive frequent use, such as kitchens or bathrooms. Moreover, certain types of wallpaper can be easily removed, allowing renters to decorate their space without risking their security deposit.