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Wallpaper is no longer just for covering walls in a single shade or pattern; it has evolved into a versatile and creative design element that can transform any room in your home. Whether you’re looking to make a bold statement or add a subtle touch of style, wallpaper offers endless possibilities. Here are five creative ways to incorporate wallpaper into your home decor for a fresh and exciting look.
1. Create an Accent Wall
One of the most popular ways to use wallpaper creatively is by creating an accent wall. This involves covering just one wall in a room with wallpaper while leaving the other walls painted in a complementary color. It’s an easy way to add personality and visual interest without overwhelming the space.How to Do It:
- Choose the Right Wall: Select the wall that will become the focal point of the room. Typically, this will be the wall behind the bed in a bedroom or behind the couch in a living room.
- Pick a Bold Pattern: Go for a striking pattern, such as floral, geometric, or abstract designs, to make a dramatic statement. Alternatively, opt for a subtle texture or wallpaper with metallic accents for a more refined look.
- Complement with Paint: Choose a paint color for the remaining walls that complements the wallpaper. Neutral shades like white, gray, or soft pastels are often a safe bet to keep the room balanced.
2. Add Wallpaper to Ceilings
Ceiling wallpaper is an emerging trend that adds an unexpected, whimsical element to a room. By applying wallpaper to the ceiling, you can create a sense of depth and make the space feel more dynamic. This is especially effective in rooms with high ceilings, such as living rooms or dining rooms.How to Do It:
- Choose the Right Pattern: Opt for patterns that are subtle or classic, such as soft florals, damask, or metallic accents. If you want to make a statement, try using bold prints or contrasting colors for a more dramatic effect.
- Consider the Room’s Lighting: Since the ceiling is the most illuminated area of a room, it’s essential to choose wallpaper that won’t overpower the space. Light tones or reflective finishes can enhance the room’s brightness, while darker hues can create an intimate and cozy feel.
- Ensure Proper Application: Use high-quality, adhesive-backed wallpaper to avoid any sagging or peeling over time. If you’re using traditional paste, make sure to carefully measure and apply the wallpaper in sections.
3. Use Wallpaper on Furniture
Wallpaper isn’t just for walls—it can be used to breathe new life into old furniture. Applying wallpaper to the surface of furniture pieces such as dressers, desks, and cabinets can add color, texture, and personality to functional items.How to Do It:
- Prepare the Furniture: Clean the surface of the furniture thoroughly to ensure the wallpaper adheres properly. Sand rough spots if necessary.
- Measure and Cut: Measure the areas of the furniture you want to cover and cut the wallpaper to fit. For a dresser, you can wallpaper the drawer fronts, while for a bookshelf, you might wallpaper the back panel.
- Apply the Wallpaper: Carefully apply wallpaper using adhesive or wallpaper paste. Smooth out any air bubbles with a wallpaper smoother or a credit card.
- Finish with a Protective Layer: For durability, finish the project with a protective clear coat, especially for surfaces that will receive a lot of use, such as tabletops or drawer fronts.
4. Line the Back of Shelves or Cabinets
Another creative use for wallpaper is lining the backs of bookshelves, cabinets, or open shelving. This subtle update adds a pop of color or pattern that’s visible when you look inside but doesn’t overwhelm the rest of the room’s decor.How to Do It:
- Select Your Wallpaper: Choose a pattern that complements the rest of your room. Lighter patterns work well for smaller spaces, while bolder prints can make a statement in larger shelves or cabinets.
- Measure the Shelves: Carefully measure the depth and width of each shelf or cabinet panel. Cut the wallpaper to fit each section.
- Apply the Wallpaper: Use adhesive wallpaper for easy application, or apply paste to traditional wallpaper. Smooth out any wrinkles or bubbles as you go, ensuring the wallpaper stays flat.
- Add Personal Touches: Once the wallpaper is applied, place your books, decorative items, or kitchenware on the shelves. The wallpaper will peek through, adding depth and personality to the display.
5. Wallpaper the Inside of a Closet
Who says closets have to be dull? Wallpapering the interior of a closet can completely transform the space and make it feel more organized and inviting. Whether it’s a walk-in closet or a small wardrobe, adding wallpaper inside gives it a high-end, custom feel.How to Do It:
- Choose the Right Wallpaper: Opt for wallpapers that are moisture-resistant if the closet is in a high-humidity area. For example, vinyl wallpaper is a durable option that can withstand wear and tear.
- Measure and Cut: Measure the walls, shelves, and doors of the closet. Cut the wallpaper to fit the sections you want to cover, making sure you leave enough to cover the corners.
- Apply and Smooth: Apply the wallpaper in small sections, smoothing out wrinkles as you go. Take care to align the pattern so it flows seamlessly from one wall to the next.
- Finish the Look: Add shelving or storage units that complement the wallpaper, and consider painting the closet doors or adding new hardware for a cohesive look.
