The Wallpaper Question: Should You Do It?

Lately, friends and clients have been asking me the same question: “Should I do wallpaper?” I get it—wallpaper can feel like a big commitment. It’s not as easy to change as paint, and there’s always the worry of, What if I hate it? But here’s the truth: when done thoughtfully, wallpaper can completely transform a room. It brings personality, depth, and a polished look that paint alone just can’t achieve.

So, should you do it? My answer is almost always yes—but only if it feels intentional. Wallpaper isn’t just about what looks good in a sample book or online. It’s about finding what fits your home, your style, and your life.

Here’s what I recommend thinking through if you’re considering taking the plunge:

1. What’s the Mood You Want to Create?

Start with the feeling you want the room to have. Should it be calm and cozy? Fun and bold? Luxe and sophisticated? Wallpaper is an opportunity to set the tone of the space.

Some ideas:

• A soft botanical print creates a peaceful retreat in a bedroom.
• A bold geometric pattern can add drama to a powder room.
• A textured grasscloth brings warmth and richness to a dining or living room.

The mood you want to create will guide your choices and help narrow down the options.

2. What’s the Room’s Personality?

Not all rooms are created equal, and each one has its own personality. Powder rooms and laundry rooms are great places to go bold since they’re smaller and less used. Bedrooms and living rooms, on the other hand, usually call for something a little more timeless and soothing.

And don’t forget about function. If you’re working with a high-traffic area or a kid-friendly space, look for durable, washable options that can handle life’s inevitable messes.

3. Does It Fit the Style of Your Home?

Wallpaper works best when it feels like it belongs in your home. Think about your home’s overall aesthetic. Is it modern and minimal? Traditional and layered? Coastal and relaxed?

For example:

• If your home leans traditional, a classic stripe or floral pattern might be perfect.
• For a more modern vibe, consider an abstract or geometric design.

Look around your space—your furniture, paint colors, and accessories will give you clues about what feels cohesive.

4. Will It Bring You Joy?

Here’s the most important question: Will you love it every time you see it? Wallpaper is more of a commitment than paint, so it should be something you truly enjoy.

If you’re torn between options, ask yourself:

• Which one makes me smile?
• Which one feels the most “me”?
• Which one will I still love a year from now?

The right wallpaper is the one you keep coming back to, the one that feels like it belongs in your home.

5. How Does It Work With the Space?

Wallpaper isn’t just about the pattern—it’s about how it interacts with everything else in the room. Consider:

•  Lighting: Does it look good in both natural and artificial light? Patterns and colors can shift dramatically depending on the time of day.
• Trim and Molding: Does the wallpaper complement or clash with your trim, crown molding, or ceiling color?
• Other Rooms: If the wallpapered space is visible from other areas of your home, how does it flow with the surrounding colors and patterns?

Wallpaper should feel like part of the bigger story your home is telling.

6. Are You Ready for the Commitment?

Wallpaper may not be as permanent as it once was—there are peel-and-stick options and removable papers now—but it’s still more of an investment than paint.

If you’re hesitant, start small. Powder rooms, accent walls, or the backs of bookcases are great places to experiment without feeling overwhelmed.

Practical Steps to Help You Decide

If you’re still on the fence, here are a few tips to make the decision easier:

• Order Samples: Seeing the wallpaper in your space is non-negotiable. Tape samples to your wall and live with them for a few days. Lighting and surroundings make all the difference.
• Think About Scale: Large patterns make a big impact but can feel overwhelming in small spaces. Smaller patterns are subtle but can get lost in larger rooms.
• Test Durability: High-traffic areas or kid-friendly zones might need washable or vinyl options.
• Hire a Pro (If You Can): If you’re investing in a high-end wallpaper or working with a tricky pattern, a professional installer is worth every penny. If you’re tackling it yourself, prep your walls well and take your time—it’s all about patience.

So… Should You Do It?

If you’re asking the question, my answer is probably yes. Wallpaper has a way of turning ordinary spaces into something unforgettable. It adds personality, depth, and a sense of custom detail that paint can’t replicate.

The best wallpaper is the one that feels like you—a pattern or texture that fits your life, brings you joy, and works in your space. Take your time, trust your instincts, and don’t be afraid to go for it. You just might wonder why you didn’t do it sooner.

Cheers and happy wallpapering!

Janie