When someone says “wallpaper,” the first thing that comes to mind is an explosion of yellowing floral prints and geometric patterns covering every surface of the home from floor to ceiling. Maybe because many of us grew up with memories of it in our grandparents’ or even our own parents’ homes, and much like the fads of popcorn ceilings or fine china cabinets—we simply developed an avoidance of it in our own efforts of rebellion mixed with a search for our own identities.

Yet, to our chagrin, the idea that we “become our parents eventually” just might be more accurate than we hoped, since wallpaper has made a comeback to interior design. In its defense, it never really went away, solid colored walls just had a moment. So, is it time to resurrect the wallpaper trend and give it a place of honor in your home decor? Let’s find out.

The History of Wallpaper

To figure out where we’re going, let’s examine how we even got here. The origins of wallpaper can be traced back to ancient China, where it began as a simple wall covering made from rice paper. Its evolution from those humble beginnings has been nothing short of remarkable. As centuries passed, it traveled across continents, adapting to the unique tastes of each culture it encountered.

In Europe, wallpaper came into its own during the 16th century. It was a symbol of opulence and prestige, adorning the homes of aristocrats and the wealthy. Elaborate, hand-painted designs graced the walls of grand estates, depicting scenes of nature, mythology, and intricate patterns.

The Decline of Wallpaper

Fast forward to the mid-20th century, and wallpaper had lost some of its luster. The minimalist design trends of the era favored unadorned, monochromatic walls over the intricate patterns of wallpaper. The perception had shifted—wallpaper was now seen as old-timey and cumbersome. Homeowners began to favor the simplicity and ease of painted walls. Paint was more accessible, and it offered a quick fix for changing room aesthetics. Wallpaper became synonymous with outdated decor.

The Resurgence of Wallpaper

However, as they say, “What goes out of style often comes back in.” Wallpaper has made a triumphant return in recent years. This time, it’s not confined to the stately homes of the elite. Modern wallpaper offers an array of designs to cater to diverse tastes, from bold and vibrant to understated and elegant. Wallpaper stans have rediscovered the charm of it, and it’s back with a fresh look. It’s no longer considered a relic of the past but a versatile tool for adding depth, texture, and personality to any room.

Incorporating Wallpaper in Your Home

If you’re contemplating the idea of bringing wallpaper back into your life, here are some creative and contemporary ways to do so.

1. Accent Wall

A whole room might be overwhelming, but a wall can add character and drama to a relatively plain room. For your pattern, the sky is the limit, but a solid choice would be something that harmonizes with your existing decor to strike the perfect balance, like palms in a plant-filled room or minimalist ocean waves in a coastal-themed room.

2. Ceiling Statement

Maybe to like it, you might just have to get a different perspective—literally. Elevate your interior design game by extending it to the ceiling. This unexpected twist can captivate the eye, making the room feel more spacious and inviting. Designs like large geometric patterns or textured lines would work here as well.

3. Closet or Nook Transformation

Maybe you’re not ready to shout your newfound love of wallpaper to the world by adding it to a common area. It’s cool, no one has to know. Transform those small, overlooked spaces, such as closets or reading nooks, with a bit of wallpaper magic. Maybe it will grow on you and you’ll muster up the courage to expand. And, if you’re still not ready to fully commit altogether, there is always removable wallpaper.

4. Furniture Facelift

Why limit wallpaper to walls? Consider using it to give your furniture a stylish makeover. Dressers, cabinets, and tabletops can all benefit from this DIY approach, breathing new life into tired pieces.

5. Mix and Match

Don’t shy away from mixing and matching patterns within the same room. The key is to ensure they share a common color palette for a cohesive look. This approach allows you to experiment and create a unique visual experience.