Walls desperate for a refresh? designer wallpaper is the answer
Let's be honest: most homes settle into a predictable aesthetic after the initial rush of furniture and foundational pieces. Plush rugs, comfortable sofas, and cozy bedding—the essentials, certainly—often leave walls feeling like afterthoughts. But a simple shift in strategy, specifically embracing wallpaper, can inject personality and drama into even the most beige of spaces.
The power of a statement wall
Interior designer Oliver Furth succinctly puts it: “Items rely on a strong background or ‘envelope.’ Nothing transforms a space more than a good envelope.” Wallpaper, he explains, isn’t just decoration; it’s a mood-setter, a coziness amplifier. Forget the quick lick of neutral paint and a few framed photos—a few thoughtfully chosen panels can be a surprisingly impactful and relatively simple upgrade.
Expert picks: where interior designers shop for wallpaper
The sheer volume of options can be overwhelming. To cut through the noise, we consulted 15 interior designers, uncovering the under-the-radar sources they trust for everything from textural grasscloths to intricate frescos. The results are a curated list of brands offering unique designs and quality craftsmanship.
Milton & King, according to Gabrielle Bove, stands out for its accessible price point and creative prints. “They have a more accessible range of products in a variety of creative prints, from geometrics to murals,” she notes, highlighting their bouquet metallic wallpaper as a particularly striking choice. But for a true splurge, Courtnay Tartt Elias champions de Gournay, praising their hand-painted quality and the ability to personalize designs—even having a client’s pet incorporated into the pattern.
Seeking a romantic, richly detailed look? Mary Graham and Nicole Salvesen consistently recommend Antoinette Poisson, whose 18th-century French-inspired designs offer a timeless elegance. Claire Staszak sings the praises of Isidore Leroy, a French house known for its immersive and beautifully crafted papers, noting that she even designed her own collection with them, favoring the Marbré de Venise print for its incredible movement and depth.
Melissa Lee turns to Greenly Living's Petal wallpaper for spaces where permanent wallcoverings aren't an option, while Robin Rains consistently relies on Porter Teleo, appreciating their hand-painted panels and customizable color schemes. Ryan Saghian points to heritage brands like de Gournay, Gracie, and Little Greene for their craftsmanship and history, particularly admiring scenic wallpapers that create immersive environments. He highlights Little Greene’s Capricorn as a subtly impactful choice.
Chasing Paper, according to Beth Diana Smith, offers a flexible range of materials and a vibrant color palette, with their A Song for Mollie pattern being a particular favorite. For a simple and reliable option, Jessica Risko Smith advocates for Rebel Walls, praising their traditional and peel-and-stick options. Karen Asprea favors Phillip Jeffries for their stunning grasscloths, noting the durability of their vinyl versions. Jennifer Miller is captivated by Lake August's artistic approach, appreciating the fact that their wallpapers originate as paintings and hand-carved block prints.
Gerald Isaac highlights belarteSTUDIO, impressed by their Swedish sensibilities and the precision of their scaled-to-space designs. James Huniford champions House of Hackney for their immersive and transportive designs, particularly the Artemis style in Petrol. Finally, Diana Lombaxrd appreciates Elworthy Studio’s artistic and deeply considered approach, noting the grounded and earthy quality of their designs.
From bold geometrics to delicate florals and textured grasscloths, the options are as varied as personal tastes. The key is to view wallpaper not as an afterthought, but as an integral element of a well-designed space.
The numbers don't lie: a recent survey by the National Kitchen and Bath Association revealed that 68% of homeowners are now incorporating wallpaper into their renovation projects—a testament to its enduring appeal and transformative power. The walls are speaking, and they’re demanding a change.