Remodeling Design Trends - Wallpaper is Making a Comeback

Wallpaper Is A Remodeling Trend

Home remodeling and design trends ebb and flow for a number of reasons including generational factors, (we want something more “hip” than our parents or grandparents) social factors even the economic climate. In the recent past, the trend has been towards minimalism and modern design, and for interior designers that meant simple matte neutral colors as opposed to more “traditional” treatments like wallpaper.

Today, turn on any of the home improvement shows like Fixer Upper, or The Property Brothers and you'll likely see an old trend returning. More and more designers and homeowners are opting to include wallpaper in their remodeling plans.

But this isn't your grandmother's wallpaper! Today, thanks to ultra-stylish prints, dimensional fabrics, interesting materials like leather, and new materials that make it easier to install, and remove, wallpaper is back! These new products offer more drama than painting and it's a great way to impart your personal style on a space without blowing your budget. In fact, some designers are likening it to contemporary art for the masses.

Why Wallpaper, Why Now?

a floral wallpaper was used in this bathroom remodel, as a special feature for the vanity makeup area

While we're seeing more examples of dramatic wallpaper designs being used on HGTV shows, and bloggers are jumping onto the trend, many designers feel that the switch to this “old school” wall treatment has more to do with a backlash from the sterility of the neutral walls and minimalist spaces of the 90's.

Today home design trends, like the open floor plan living space, are swinging back to the layered rugs and clustered collectibles of the California bohemian aesthetic in order to define spaces. Wall coverings offer homeowners the opportunity to impart their own personal style, while providing a unique feel and definition to a remodeled space, for example by creating a special feature wall in the living room, or dining area.

Younger homeowners who grew up in those sterile homes of the 90's are looking at wallpaper as a “new” and exciting alternative. With manufacturers creating bold, modern prints, that are dramatic, oversized and whimsical, wallpaper isn't relegated to the floral print our grandparents used. The colors are richer, the fabrics are sometimes textured and almost three dimensional and thanks to advanced in digital printing, they're sharp and lifelike.

A Little Goes A Long Way!

textured wallpaper was used on the art wall of this remodeled condominium

What has changed when it comes to using wallpaper today, is how it's applied. In the past, entire rooms, or even entire homes were treated with wallpaper. Today, designers are using it much more judiciously and purposefully. Rather than covering entire rooms, they're choosing to use wallpaper in one or two rooms of the home, or even as a single accent wall. It's a low cost, low maintenance way to achieve a personalized look to a remodeled space.

Thanks to advances in application materials, installing and removing wallpaper is no longer a time consuming and tedious task. New adhesive formulas and stick and peel fabrics allow the wallpaper to be easily removed without leaving a residue. That means no more hours of steaming, striping and washing walls when it's time for a design change. Today's wallpaper means less mess and less stress.

Wallpaper has never been more affordable or more convenient.

Choosing The Right Wallpaper For Your Project

With literally tens of thousands of designs, patterns, textures and materials available, not to mention the options for custom design, choosing the right wallpaper for your project can be overwhelming. Here are some guidelines to help you make the perfect choice.

Types of Wallpaper

a closeup of textured wallpaper used to create colorful contrast

Today, wallpaper is categorized by the material it's made of and the adhesive coating. Non-woven substrate is a popular choice because it's easy to dry strip from walls. Pre-pasted papers with a water activated adhesive are easy to install, or remove and generally grease resistant which makes them perfect for the kitchen, or homes with children or pets.

Print Matching

The “match” tells you how to align the paper. There are three types – straight, random and drop. Straight match runs with width of the paper across the seam to the next strip. Random-match papers continue seamlessly. Drop-match papers require planning and must be aligned vertically and horizontally as the pattern is slightly offset from strip to strip.

Wallpaper Paste

Pre-pasted papers need to be wetted (or “booked”) and then allowed to set-up for about 10 minutes before application while the glue activates. Unpasted papers do not come with adhesive so the wall or back of the paper will need to be treated before application.

Repeats and Waste

Repeats are the number of inches a pattern stretches vertically before repeating. The lower the repeats, the lower the waste. Solids and textures typically have very little waster as they have no repeats.

Calculating Coverage Needs

wallpaper was used on several walls of this remodeled 1920’s bungalow, when we created a main level powder room. the same wallpaper was repeated in the foyer, as an accent behind decorative shelving.

Before you run out to the store and start buying wallpaper, you'll need to calculate how much you need. There are calculators online that can help figure this out. Exact roll measurements can vary by manufacturer, but generally a roll covers 25 to 28 square feet.

For the most part, today wallpaper is surprisingly durable and maintenance is easy. Scrubbable papers can be cleaned with a sponge and a mild detergent. Washable papers can be wiped with a damp cloth. If you're concerned about removable, look for either strippable or peelable papers. Strippable paper can be removed without water or chemicals and leaves no backing. Peelable papers may leave some residue behind when removed, but it can be cleaned up with a little soap and water.

If you're looking to make a statement with your next remodeling project, consider the new generation of wallpaper. It's beautiful, affordable and easy to work with. Your interior designer can show you examples and explain your options. It's a great way to make a wonderful personal statement in your home and with the wide variety of styles, colors, materials, and textures available you can create your own unique space!

This article was updated on 10/31/2022 by Abe Degnan.

About Degnan Design Build Remodel
Since 1981 Degnan Design Build Remodel has provided home improvement and construction services to customers throughout Greater Madison, Wisconsin. Our goal is to WOW you with a "Designed For Your Life" solution using a process that will transform your home into a beautiful living space, delivered on time, and on budget. We are known for our communication, respectfulness, and a commitment to our customers and our community. Contact us to speak with one of our designers about your home improvement project.