The transformation of Wallpaper and how it can transform your home!

Wallpaper from the 70's...Ugly, Ugly, Ugly!

As soon as you saw the blog topic, wallpaper, you might have wanted to stop reading.  The thought of wallpaper might bring you back to your childhood home when the walls were covered with pea green and orange colors in an ugly, 'retro' pattern.  BUT WAIT, please read on....Wallpaper colors and patterns have made a complete 180.  The vast selection of wallpapers that are available today, can completely transform any space from blah to beautiful!

Similar to using a dark paint in a small room, many people are reluctant to use wallpaper, thinking that it will make the space feel smaller.  Just a myth!  If you have a small space, such as a powder room, foyer, or office, adding wallpaper will make it dramatic and unique, similar to this trellis design by Ballard Designs. Choose a pattern with a small repeat so it doesn't overwhelm the room.  Use the same rule of thumb for larger spaces/rooms/walls...choose a larger pattern to create a more intimate feeling while still allowing the space to feel open. A larger repeat can also be interesting on one statement/focal wall, seen in the picture below.  The furnishings, lighting, and carpeting are neutral and the focal point is the dramatic wallpaper...it's where your eye is drawn to.

Along with the large selection of wallpapers today, the application process and options are much different and easier than years ago!  Don't get me wrong, wallpapering a room is more challenging than painting, BUT with some practice, the effect will be worth the labor!  Start off wallpapering a small space, perhaps one that won't be seen often...maybe the garage (just kidding) or the back wall of the closet that you want to organize.  But if the thought of putting up wallpaper yourself, scares you, it might be better to call in a professional. 

For an easy-to-install wallpaper, try the peel and stick application.  There are some stylish and trendy options that once applied, you'd have no idea that water and glue weren't used.  Another easy-to-do option is to get wallpaper-like decals that you can take on and off without ruining the wall paint, like this Flower Power Self Stick accent by Lelands Wallpaper.  These options can transform your room, as seen in the picture below by INKE wallpaper.  INKE's wallpaper is recycled one-of-a-kind wallpaper cut into animal shapes.  Have fun and be creative!

Share your thoughts and wallpaper experiences....

(images courtesy of Ballard Design, Lelands Wallpaper, and INKE Wallpaper)