Choosing wallpaper can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience. After all, wallpaper significantly impacts a room’s atmosphere and reflects your personal style. With countless colors, patterns, and textures available, how do you navigate the options and make the perfect selection? This article provides a comprehensive guide to help you confidently choose wallpaper that transforms your space. How do I select the wallpaper?
Consider the Room’s Purpose
How do I select the wallpaper? First and foremost, consider the room where you intend to install the wallpaper. Different rooms have different functions and moods.
Living Room:
This space is often the heart of your home, used for relaxation and socializing. Therefore, you might prefer calming colors and patterns that create a welcoming atmosphere.
Bedroom:
The bedroom is your sanctuary for rest and rejuvenation. Consider soothing colors and patterns that promote tranquility and sleep.
Dining Room:
This room is often used for formal gatherings and meals. You could opt for bolder colors and patterns that stimulate conversation and create a sense of occasion.
Kitchen:
The kitchen is a hub of activity and often a casual space. Choose durable and easy-to-clean wallpaper that can withstand moisture and splashes.
Bathroom:
Bathrooms are typically smaller spaces with high humidity. Select moisture-resistant wallpaper designed specifically for bathroom use.
By considering the room’s purpose, you can narrow down your options and choose wallpaper that complements the intended mood and function.
Assess Your Style
Your personal style plays a crucial role in wallpaper selection. Reflect on your preferences and the overall aesthetic you want to achieve.
Classic:
If you appreciate timeless elegance, consider classic patterns like damask, stripes, or florals in traditional color palettes.
Modern:
For a contemporary look, explore geometric patterns, abstract designs, or bold colors that create a clean and sophisticated ambiance.
Eclectic:
If you enjoy a mix of styles, embrace eclectic wallpaper with unique patterns, vibrant colors, and unexpected combinations.
Minimalist:
For a minimalist aesthetic, opt for subtle textures, neutral colors, or simple patterns that create a calm and uncluttered space.
Don’t be afraid to experiment and choose wallpaper that truly resonates with your personal taste and complements your existing decor.
Factor in the Room Size
The size of the room significantly influences the choice of wallpaper. How do I select the wallpaper?
Small Rooms:
In smaller rooms, lighter colors and smaller patterns can create an illusion of spaciousness. Avoid large-scale patterns that can overwhelm the space.
Large Rooms:
Larger rooms offer more flexibility. You can experiment with bolder colors, larger patterns, or murals to create a statement wall.
Low Ceilings:
For rooms with low ceilings, consider vertical stripes or patterns that draw the eye upward, creating an illusion of height.
By considering the room’s dimensions, you can choose wallpaper that enhances the proportions and creates a balanced visual appeal.
Think About Lighting
Lighting plays a crucial role in how wallpaper appears in a room.
Natural Light:
Rooms with ample natural light can handle bolder colors and patterns. The natural light will illuminate the wallpaper and showcase its details.
Artificial Light:
In rooms with primarily artificial light, consider lighter colors that reflect light and brighten the space. Test wallpaper samples under different lighting conditions to see how they appear.
Explore Different Types of Wallpaper
Wallpaper comes in various types, each with its own characteristics and installation requirements.
Traditional Wallpaper:
This classic type is made of paper and requires paste for application. It offers a wide variety of designs but can be less durable than other options.
Non-Woven Wallpaper:
This type is made of a blend of natural and synthetic fibers, making it more durable and easier to install. It is also strippable, making removal easier.
Vinyl Wallpaper:
Vinyl wallpaper is highly durable, moisture-resistant, and easy to clean. It is a good choice for high-traffic areas or rooms with high humidity.
Grasscloth Wallpaper:
This type is made of natural fibers and offers a unique texture and organic feel. It is a good choice for creating a natural and sophisticated ambiance.
Flock Wallpaper:
Flock wallpaper has a raised velvet-like pattern, adding a touch of luxury and texture to your walls. It is a good choice for creating a statement wall or adding a touch of elegance.
Consider the room’s conditions, your budget, and your desired aesthetic when choosing the type of wallpaper.
Order Samples and Test
How do I select the wallpaper? Before committing to a large quantity of wallpaper, it’s crucial to order samples and test them in your space.
Observe in Different Lighting:
Observe the samples in different lighting conditions throughout the day to see how the colors and patterns appear.
Consider Existing Decor:
Hold the samples against your existing furniture, fabrics, and accessories to ensure they complement each other.
Live with the Samples:
Hang the samples on your wall for a few days to see how you feel about them over time. This allows you to make a more informed decision.
Don’t Forget the Fifth Wall
While we often focus on the four walls of a room, don’t forget the fifth wall – the ceiling!
Create a Statement:
Wallpapering the ceiling can add a dramatic touch and create a focal point in the room.
Enhance the Ambiance:
Choose a subtle pattern or a lighter color to create a sense of openness and enhance the room’s ambiance.
Consider the Room’s Height:
For rooms with high ceilings, a bold pattern on the ceiling can create a more intimate and cozy atmosphere.
By considering the ceiling as part of your wallpaper selection, you can create a truly cohesive and impactful design.
Seek Inspiration
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the sheer number of wallpaper options, seek inspiration from various sources.
Interior Design Magazines and Websites:
Browse through interior design magazines and websites to see how different wallpapers are used in various settings.
Social Media Platforms:
Explore social media platforms like Pinterest and Instagram for wallpaper ideas and inspiration.
Home Decor Stores:
Visit home decor stores and browse their wallpaper collections. Many stores offer design consultations to help you make the right choice.
Showrooms and Design Centers:
Explore showrooms and design centers to see wallpaper displays and get expert advice from professionals.
By seeking inspiration, you can gain a better understanding of the latest trends, explore different styles, and discover wallpaper options you might not have considered otherwise.
Consider the Pattern Scale
The scale of the wallpaper pattern can significantly impact the overall look and feel of a room.
Large-Scale Patterns:
Large-scale patterns can make a bold statement and create a focal point in a room. However, they can also be overwhelming in smaller spaces.
Small-Scale Patterns:
Small-scale patterns tend to be more subtle and versatile. They can work well in both small and large rooms, creating a sense of texture and visual interest without overpowering the space.
Mix and Match:
Don’t be afraid to mix and match different pattern scales to create a layered and dynamic look. For example, you could pair a large-scale floral wallpaper with a small-scale geometric pattern on an accent wall.
By considering the pattern scale, you can create a balanced and harmonious design that complements your room’s size and style.
Pay Attention to Color
Color plays a crucial role in setting the mood and atmosphere of a room. Consider the following when choosing wallpaper colors:
Warm Colors:
Warm colors like red, orange, and yellow can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. They are often used in living rooms, dining rooms, and kitchens.
Cool Colors:
Cool colors like blue, green, and purple can create a calming and relaxing atmosphere. They are often used in bedrooms, bathrooms, and home offices.
Neutral Colors:
Neutral colors like white, gray, and beige can create a versatile and timeless backdrop. They can be paired with bolder accent colors or used to create a minimalist aesthetic.
Color Psychology:
Consider the psychological effects of different colors. For example, blue is known for its calming effect, while green is associated with nature and tranquility.
By carefully considering color, you can create a space that reflects your desired mood and complements your personal style.
Think About Texture
Texture adds another dimension to wallpaper, creating visual interest and depth.
Embossed Wallpaper:
Embossed wallpaper features raised patterns or designs, adding a tactile element to your walls.
Grasscloth Wallpaper:
Grasscloth wallpaper offers a natural and organic texture, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Flock Wallpaper:
Flock wallpaper has a raised velvet-like pattern, adding a touch of luxury and sophistication.
Textured Vinyl Wallpaper:
Vinyl wallpaper can mimic various textures, such as linen, silk, or brick, providing a realistic and visually appealing effect.
By incorporating texture, you can create a more dynamic and engaging space that appeals to both the eye and the touch.
