Editor’s note: We are sharing this post, published in May 2021, as an inspiration to anyone who is thinking of adding wallpaper to their home. Below, you’ll find seven unexpected wallpaper ideas to consider in your design process.
As someone who likes to update the design of my home (and works for a professional, talented person to boot), wallpaper is on my side. But as a renter? Premium wallpaper on the cards.
Yet, despite the harsh reality of my rental agreement, I still longed to install my own wallpaper. Bold styles to add life to my bathroom walls? I dream of it. A wallpaper on the front door to greet everyone who walks in the door? Pure magic. Wallpaper in the bedroom? I would do it in a heartbeat.
I called the internet—and part of my imagination—for an unexpected way to add the beauty of wallpaper to the home.
For every soul who loves wallpaper, whether you have the option of installing it on your wall or not, below I share the fruits of my search. Come along for the ride.
1. Place the wallpaper in the frame.
I like this type of wallpaper that packs a punch, without having to worry about the dreaded ones. removal time. Get yourself the wallpaper you want or buy a sample, put it on a frame, and BAM – you’ve got a new and eye-catching piece of art for your home.
2. Put it in your medicine cabinet.
From Caroline Donofrio Cup Jo A removable wallpaper was installed behind his medicine cabinet, reading, “I used the medicine cabinet removable panther wallpaper, which serves the dual purpose of hiding unsightly brown spots and brings me joy every time I wash my face.” Now that’s a simple, stylish hack we can get behind.
3. Wallpaper on the ceiling.
If you do have the option to add wallpaper to your walls, consider extending it to the ceiling. Cover the entire room with wallpaper, and you will create a space that feels intimate and beautiful. Kate did this in the blue office space of their home, and the results were delightful.
4. Place the wallpaper in the folder.
Adding wallpaper to nearby storage can add more life to your shelf arrangement game and really make a difference.
5. Get creative with your submissions.
We’ve said it time and time again, but when it comes to your own design style, there are no rules. That’s one of the reasons we met London-based blogger Medina Grillo who Grillo Designs— his intelligence and curiosity when it comes to transforming his home with unique DIY projects. Medina installed wallpaper and pictures on the top half of the wall, creating a visual effect similar to the chair rail, while saving hundreds of dollars in the process by removing and installing it across the entire wall. .
6. Install wallpaper in your drawers.
Need a little breath of fresh air every time you reach for a shirt or a pair of socks? Go ahead and line up the drawers properly in your order of choice.
7. Create your own DIY model.
The beautiful and delightful writer Maggie LaMaack took us away from her creations. While this may not be the best option for most renters, for those with little flexibility in their decor choices, this is an excellent, cost-effective way to add character and your wall.
Jackie is the editor-in-chief at Wit & Delight. In his spare time, you can find him jogging along the Minneapolis lakefront, dining at local restaurants, or driving around home with her boyfriend and their beloved corgi, Marge. You can follow him on Instagram @jackiesaffert.