8 Creative Wallpaper Trends to Try in Your Home

Wallpapering Furniture

When updating an old piece of furniture, it's common to either sand and stain or give it a fresh coat of paint. Another option is to apply wallpaper to the entire piece or to a few specific areas for contrast.

"I've started to see friends use peel and stick wallpaper to transform their furniture," says Quarles. "Whether on the outside door panels of a media cabinet, or the interior of a glassware case, adding peel and stick wallpaper to your furniture is a way to give it a beautiful new life.”

Faux Wallpaper Headboards

Instead of a traditional headboard, consider applying a striking wallpaper to the space just above your bed. This faux headboard quickly creates dimension and adds a boost of character to the bedroom. You can cut the wallpaper into a curved shape or a rectangle—or consider framing it with wood or a crisp paint border.

Wallpaper on the Ceiling

Applying wallpaper to walls is the norm, but consider leaning into this fun and unexpected way to add a little vibrancy or texture to your space. "Use a wallpaper design for the ceiling and select a color that complements it for all your walls," says Williams Martinez, founder and principal designer of Casa Martinez. "People love surprises and this is a cool one when looking up."

To create balance, pair your wallpaper ceiling with a large, neutral light fixture, says Lindsey Jamison, lead designer Rumor Designs. She says the goal is to allow the eyes to rest and the wallpaper to pop.

Framed Wallpaper

If original art isn't in the budget—or you're looking for a quick way to add a bold splash to your space—pick out a beautiful wallpaper that complements your aesthetic and frame it. Quarles says you can place it in clean and modern frames, or head to the thrift store to find vintage frames with more pizzazz.  

"You could even display remnants of wallpaper you may have leftover from another area in your home," Quarles says. "This would be a great way to keep a harmonious conversation through curation happening throughout your home." You could even create a huge art piece with a custom-made frame.

Hand-Painted Wallpaper Murals

Another wallpaper trend to consider for you home? Create an instant accent wall or mural with hand-painted wallpaper. This gives the look of a high-end custom paint job for a fraction of the cost.

"Hand-painted wallpaper has become one of my favorites nowadays. There are so many gorgeous hand-painted wallcoverings that can be used as art to transform your walls into amazing backdrops," Martinez says. "Make sure you choose something you're obsessed with and have fun with it."

Wallpapered Stair Risers

 In lieu of pricey stair runners, many homeowners are using peel and stick wallpaper on their stair rises (not on the treads). This mimics the look of tiled stair risers and instantly adds color and personality to your space—without feeling too bold. Since this area will likely get lots of traffic, opt for a durable wallpaper that's easy to wipe down.

Wallpaper Decoupage Projects

Personalize furniture and small items—such as trays, bowls, or lamp bases—with wallpaper decoupage, which is currently trending. You'll need to tear traditional wallpaper into smaller pieces in order to create a layered decoupage look. Consider mixing a few complementary wallpapers for an extra burst of character.  

Wallpapered Built-In Bookshelves

Those lucky enough to have built-in bookcases or nooks can take advantage of this wallpaper trend. Quarles says you can use a peel and stick or traditional wallpaper to quickly "spruce up a bland built-in bookshelf and create a functional yet beautiful focal point in your home." For added pattern play, layer framed abstract artwork on the shelves to create more interest in every nook.