Most Invested is a monthly series in which one of our style editors or a friend of Livingetc explains the do’s and don’ts of making the most important product decisions, and showcases the items they’d be adding to their cart.
If you haven't already noticed, wallpaper is returning in a big way. It didn't exactly leave, per se, but it is something I'm seeing a lot more of in the most coveted homes and best home decor brands. Even peel-and-stick wallpaper has gained newfound appreciation as a colorful and whimsical solution for both renters and homeowners alike. You can use wallpaper to add some contrast to an otherwise boring space, or maybe jazz up a pair of bookshelves on either side of your TV. Perhaps you line a few kitchen drawers for an understated but personalized touch, or spice up your entryway with a bold pattern. Whatever you choose, it's an incredibly versatile decor option that designers love.
The only problem? Wallpaper can feel awfully permanent. It's not, of course, but it is much more of a pain to put up and take down than paint, which can be easily touched up or glossed over. Choosing a wallpaper then comes off as quite the commitment — one I'm here to better delineate so that you can make the best decision for your space in 2024. Following and leaning into wallpaper trends is always one way to go, but I also wanted to ask experts about their timeless wallpaper selection tips as well, so that you can be prepared no matter the year or trend cycle.
At the moment, wallpaper usage is trending toward sophisticated but creative applications, designers told me, a pattern they're expecting will continue throughout the coming months. Isy Runsewe, interior designer at Isy's Interiors, said she is seeing wallpaper that 'sets the design tone' of a space by 'incorporating a color scheme for the entire home' or maybe enveloping the walls of a powder room to 'create a design moment' on its own. Jill Elliott of Color Kind Studio agreed, detailing two projects — a mudroom redesign and a children's playroom redesign — where she used wallpaper in unconventional ways: to line and differentiate storage bins and cubbies. The look ties into the trending 'bookshelf wealth' aesthetic, as well, 'which is all about showcasing your treasured items to create a cozy, lived-in look,' said Ashley McCollum, GLIDDEN® paint by PPG color expert. 'Wallpaper certainly is being used in this style; the look is furthered by pairing it with rich paint colors on mantelpieces, wall shelves, bar carts, side tables, and windowsills.'
Both Isy and Greg Roth, a senior interior designer at CarbonShack, also mentioned an increased use of wallpaper on ceilings, especially in entryways and bedrooms, and in walk-in closets. 'I think that options for new, inventive, and surprising wallcoverings are growing exponentially – particularly with the ease of nimble production provided by digital printing,' Greg told me. 'Plus, with a trend away from whites/neutrals, consumers are really looking for new ways to bring color and pattern into their spaces.'
Trending wallpaper prints and patterns
Botanical and nature-inspired prints are dominating the wallpaper world right now, according to the majority of designers I spoke with. 'Biophilia is HOT-HOT-HOT!' Greg tells me. 'So we’re seeing bright pops of colorful florals, animal prints, leafy patterns, and designs that mimic or emulate natural materials.' Bold tones and hues were also common throughlines, though designers made sure to note that neutrals are not entirely out of the picture.
Shaolin Low of Studio Shaolin also mentioned one look in particular that the Livingetc team also has its eye on for 2024: mural-style wallpaper, wherein the overall design comprises a singular image rather than a repeated pattern. 'I love mural pieces,' Shaolin tells me. 'I think it’s so beautiful to have [a] story told and this huge art piece.'
Styling trending wallpaper
If botanical wallpaper sounds good to you, I've also got the low-down on best to style it.
'For a soft botanical-themed wallpaper, I would pair it with a palette of natural hues such as sage green, [and] blush pink,' plus 'furniture with clean lines and earthy textures that would complement the wallpaper's aesthetic,' said Isy.
'I love a pattern that harbors less-than-obvious surprising moments, which adds mystery and delight to the space. Like a jungle or forest motif with hard-to-find creatures slinking about,' Greg added. Similarly, he noted how 'furniture could go more subdued — 'maybe rich wood tones, to relate back to the nature theme — 'and a textural natural-fiber rug on hardwood floors.'
Jill of Color Kind Studio loves the idea of playing with contrast when styling: 'I love seeing pieces that are a bit opposite of each other,' she told me. 'For example, a cast-iron utility sink against a more playful wallpaper, or a playful sofa and pillows against a more classic design. To me, the mix is the most personal!'
Tips for the wallpaper selection process
As mentioned up top, wallpaper is a commitment — and a bigger one than paint. So you want to be sure you're crossing your t's and dotting your i's before adhering anything to your walls.
For starters, get a sample. This is 'crucial,' Isy said, because 'colors and textures can look different in person than online or in a catalog.' You also want to see how the lighting in the room might affect the colors and how they appear. Don't move forward if you're not in love with your choice. 'Does it speak to you on a visceral level? Does it move you, excite you, calm you, or bring an ineffable je ne sais quoi to your space that you can’t do without?' Greg continued. 'If so, then you've probably found the right one!' Otherwise, think of the space in question. 'For example, a powder room can be an opportunity for bold experimentation — or even for a slightly more costly option, if the space is smaller. A bedroom wall might ask for something soothing, restful — unless it’s a guest bedroom, in which case you may choose to be more playful and fun. Since there are so many options, go with your gut. Look for colors that you gravitate towards and patterns that thrill and move you.' Consider environment, as well; if the room you're papering is near water, for example, avoid mold by opting for a covering made of vinyl and steering clear of natural materials, Shaolin said.
And of course, you should think about who is installing your wallpaper — ideally, you hire an expert. Professionals have the know-how to 'handle any challenges, such as irregular wall surfaces or complex architectural details,' Isy cautioned. 'Additionally, they have the right tools and techniques to ensure a flawless finish, elevating the overall look of your space.'
In the end, you want to 'trust your gut,' Jill told me. If a pattern or print is too trendy or too of the moment, maybe you skip it; 'you want something that you’ll love for years to come that will evolve with your style.' But if you 'trust your eye and follow what you love,' wallpaper makes a 'great statement piece in any home.'
The On-Trend Wallpaper Edit
Price: $34 (27.5sq ft)
Target is famous for luxury looks at a budget price, and this affordable and well-reviewed block print wallpaper option bolsters that reputation once again. A great option for those who'd love to try a botanical wallpaper but would prefer a lower-priced roll to start.
Price: $0.35 / sq ft / $16.99 per roll
Green continues to dominate as a wall and cabinet color for kitchens and bathrooms in particular. As a result, I couldn't help but include this fabric-textured shibori option, the perfect on-trend and visually-stimulating buy.
Price: $47.99 (28sq ft.)
This modern tropical print is fun but blendable, if you will, in that its coloring and design should sit well with most decor. It's also peel-and-stick vinyl — perfect for any commitment-phobes.
Price: $278 (67.5sq ft)
This stunning mural, which comes together in a Chinoiserie motif, has no less than 5-stars on Anthropologie's website. The sage color is so beautiful and calming; overall, it's the perfect demonstration of what Shaolin said re: mural pieces.
Price: $89 (60.8sq ft)
Was: $178
During our conversation, Jill wasn't shy about her passion for Sarah Sherman Samuel, whose oft whimsical yet classy/understated patterns are perfect for the current moment. Case in point: this checkboard paper, a playful neutral that would spice up any wall.
Price: $191.20 (3 rolls, 20.5" W x 9.84' H)
Was: $239
It's not for everyone, but this sardine-covered wallpaper is so full of personality and whimsy. I would love to see this lining cabinets or drawers, in a kitchen backsplash, or really anywhere food is served.
Price: $48 (198" H x 20.5" W)
Give the botanical trend a whirl with this metallic gold palm tree-covered peel-and-stick, a lovely choice for an accent wall, a small powder room, or even a guest suite.
Price: $178 (60.8sq ft.)
Featuring a simple dash and bar motif, the Artemis Wallpaper is simple, chic, and easily styled — a win-win-win. Oh, and it's a Lulu and Georgia buyer's pick. Win-win-win-WIN.
Price: $270 (10yd roll, 54"W)
This gorgeous black-and-white paper is covered in handpainted ink blots stacked one on top of the other, a perilous arrangement that grabs your attention right away.
Price: $325 (58sq ft.)
If there were any brand that would nail a nature-inspired or botanical print, it would be House of Hackney, known for its opulent designs and maximalist patterns. I love this paper inspired by 19th-century designer William Morris.
Price: $34 (27.5sq ft)
Depending, wallpaper can also function as, well, something else entirely. In this instance, that's tile. This affordable peel-and-stick print would work perfectly as bathroom wallpaper or maybe tucked away in a kitchen backsplash, given how perfectly tile works in either type of space.
Price: $1.65/sq ft.
I wouldn't call it minimalist, but this animal print wallpaper strikes the right balance between a zany, unique pattern and a calming color scheme. That's an impressive line to tow. I think this would be great in a guest bedroom, as Greg suggested.
Price: $336 (56sq ft.)
Luxurious and storied, this bayleaf and manilla wallpaper was designed by textile designer William Morris, who actually used it in his own dining room. How's that for expert endorsed?
Price: $349 (5.4sq yds)
Perhaps the most neutral on this list (but far from boring), this delicate beige-toned wallpaper features a perfectly sized floral motif. Plus, it's a CB2 best seller.
Price: $69 (28sq ft.)
Bold and bright, this playful peel-and-stick wallpaper embodies the trend toward nature-inspired and colorful paper with ease. I'd love to see this in a pool house or cabana given its tropical vibe.
