Wallpaper has seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years, and for good reasons. The outdated styles of decades past are long gone and (thankfully) have been replaced by innovative and unique prints and materials that stand the test of trend and time. The method of installing wallpaper has gotten a major upgrade, too. No more horror removal stories - these days, the norm is to use modern glue and wall prep products that make any future decor change a cinch.
So, if you’ve always loved wallpaper, but haven’t quite found the right match, read on - you just might find the perfect match to make your design come alive in a way that’s modern and sleek.
Grasscloth
Though not exactly a new trend, grasscloth has grown in range lately, and we can’t tell you how happy we are about it. This wallpaper style is amazing in just about any space given its inherent texture and use of natural fibers. And with the variety on the market now, you’re not just relegated to shades of brown or taupe. Today, you can find everything from detailed patterns all the way to show-stopping metallics, and we’re completely on board.
Vinyl
If the thought of “vinyl” makes you immediately think of the 1990s, it’s time to reframe that thought. The vinyl wallpapers of today have swiftly moved from boring patterns and colors to an array of simply stunning selections. Natural textures, moody hues, and more await. And because vinyl is so durable and easy to clean, it’s perfect for those high-traffic areas and wet environments (think mudrooms or bathrooms). It’s a game changer for everyday living in style.
Murals
Love the idea of a unique wallpaper, but afraid of choosing a cookie cutter option? Mural-style papers are the way to go. They’re custom-made panels that fit a specific area, and they typically incorporate the unique work of artists across the globe, so you’re guaranteed to find a style that exactly suits your personality (and that stands out from the crowd as completely and totally unique).
Statement
While it can feel risky to go with a bold wallpaper pattern, sometimes the most unusual and unexpected statement papers can have the most impact and longevity within your space. Especially if you want a space to feel unapologetically like you, opting for a jaw-dropping wallpaper can be just the right thing. After all, if you really love it, it’s bound to make your space feel perfectly lived in for years to come (rather than opting for a trend you tire of within a few seasons).
Peel & Stick
As much as we love a good wallpaper around here, we understand that it’s not always a feasible solution. Sometimes you’re looking to design a room that will need updates shortly down the line (like a kids’ room or a small area). In those cases, you can still enjoy the benefits of wallpaper without the hassle of an extensive installation. The solution is peel and stick wallpaper. But this wallpaper isn’t your run-of-the-mill shabby chic variety popular in the early 2000s. No - nowadays, there are some seriously gorgeous modern options that are sure to have you falling head over heels. Everything from writable surface wallpaper to magnetic or cork options are yours for the choosing!
Innovative Materials
Wallpaper doesn’t always have to mean literal wallpaper. In fact, some of the most intriguing wallpapers on the market right now use completely out-of-the-box and innovative materials in new and interesting ways. Thin wood panels, glass beds/mica, as well as 3D products are just a few of the many examples out there. For the ultra creative, this is definitely an avenue to consider.
With the modern array of patterns and materials, and the much-simpler installation techniques used by the pros, there’s no reason to be scared of wallpaper. In fact, in today’s world, wallpaper is the exact opposite of old-fashioned and dated; it’s a no-fuss solution that’s guaranteed to give any space a personality. And if living in style is your goal, well, we’re absolutely sure there’s a wallpaper out there that’s meant for you.
By Megan Johansson, Contributor to INVIEW Interior Design