The days of plain-white walls are gone, and wallpaper is making a comeback.
Whether you opt for bold florals, sleek geometric patterns, or neutral tones with texture, wallpaper easily adds personality and color to any room. However, using it effectively requires careful planning.
That's why Business Insider asked two interior designers — TC Chou, an NYC-based architect, interior designer, and the founder of Design Determination, and Angeline Guido Hall, the principal designer and owner of Dallas-based Angeline Guido Design — about the top wallpaper errors they see people make.
From application mishaps to aesthetic faux pas, here's what they said.
Not choosing the right type of wallpaper for the room can backfire.
Using paper-backed wallpaper in the bathroom can lead to damage from moisture.
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Chou said that when choosing wallpaper for areas that see a lot of moisture — like a bathroom or powder room — it's important to select one with the correct substrate or backing.
He recommends avoiding paper-backed wallpapers, as their delicate nature can lead to rapid damage from moisture and cause them to peel off quickly.
"Instead, opt for vinyl wallpaper, which is specifically designed to withstand humidity," he said.
Vinyl resists moisture and is easy to clean and maintain, making it the ideal choice for these spaces.
A lot of people don't think outside the box when it comes to using wallpaper.
Wallpaper can be used in a number of different ways.
Paige DiFiore
Hall told BI she's used wallpaper in bold patterns on ceilings to draw attention upward, on the backs of bookcases to add depth and dimension, and on the inset of cabinet doors to make a subtle statement.
"Wallpaper is not just for the walls," she said.
Large patterns can make a small room look even smaller.
Large patterns can overwhelm a small room.
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Chou told BI that using large, repeat-pattern wallpaper in a small room can create a sense of confinement rather than spaciousness.
"The expansive design can become fragmented, losing its visual impact and aesthetic appeal," he said. "Consider smaller patterns or solid colors that enhance the room's dimensions and create a more harmonious atmosphere."
Don't forget to map out your plan ahead of time.
It's important that the pattern matches from wall to wall.
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Hall recommends being specific about which corner you start applying patterned wallpaper from.
"If you plan to paper all four walls in the room, as the pattern match travels from wall to wall, you will almost always unavoidably end up with the pattern not matching up in the last corner," she says. "The best spot for this to happen is in the corner that isn't as visible from the entrance into the room."
Chou said this type of careful planning is even more important when working with non-repeating patterns. Before installation, he suggests mapping out furniture and decor placement to ensure the desired visual is on full display.
Overly bright colors can make a room feel less serene.
Natural colors can help maintain a calming atmosphere.
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If you prefer a textured look for your walls, Chao recommends using natural colors to maintain a calming and serene atmosphere.
"Subtle hues allow the texture of the wallpaper to stand out without overwhelming the space. By choosing tones that are gentle and muted, you can create a sophisticated backdrop that invites relaxation while still showcasing the unique surface qualities," he said.
This approach enhances the overall design without detracting from the room's tranquility.
Start with the wallpaper when planning your color palette.
Starting with wallpaper makes creating a color palette much easier.
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To create a cohesive and sophisticated color scheme in a room, Chao suggests starting with the wallpaper and area rugs before selecting paint colors.
"Wallpapers often feature a rich array of colors and patterns that can inspire your overall palette. By matching paint to wallpaper instead of the other way around, you can ensure a more coordinated and visually pleasing result," he said.
Stop worrying about resale when choosing the right pattern for you.
You'll never regret choosing a pattern you love.
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Hall told BI that the potential of selling your home in the future shouldn't stop you from getting creative with your wallpaper.
"If it sparks joy for you, go for that wild pattern you've been eyeballing," she said. "Wallpaper is not an inexpensive investment, and you'll never regret your choice if it's something you love."
