Grey Wallpapers

Why choose grey wallpaper?

Grey has long overtaken beige as the most versatile neutral in contemporary design. Whether you’re styling a minimalist apartment in Auckland or a rustic lodge in Queenstown, grey wallpaper effortlessly bridges cool and warm palettes. Light greys bounce daylight to make compact rooms feel larger, while dark graphite shades anchor open-plan living areas with drama.

Popular grey wallpaper styles in NZ

• Plain & textured – Linen effects, grasscloth and silk-inspired plain grey wallpaper add tactile interest without overwhelming the eye.
• Marble & stone – Grey marble wallpaper delivers luxurious veining at a fraction of the cost of real slabs.
• Geometric & striped – Grey and silver striped wallpaper or grey and white geometric wallpaper creates rhythm and elongates walls.
• 3D & brick – 3D brick wallpaper in grey offers industrial chic perfect for cafés and home offices.
• Retro & damask – Grey damask wallpaper nods to heritage villas while still feeling fresh.

Material options

Paper

Traditional paper is affordable and eco-friendly, but it requires gentle handling during installation.

Non-woven

Favoured by professional installers, non-woven backings allow paste-the-wall application and easy dry removal—ideal for rentals.

Vinyl

Vinyl-coated grey wallpaper resists moisture and scrubbing, making it a smart choice for kitchens, laundries and bathrooms. If you’re papering a wet area, ensure compliance with the New Zealand Building Code’s E3 Internal Moisture requirements.

Calculating quantities

Most rolls sold in New Zealand measure 10.05 m × 0.53 m, covering about 5 m². To estimate rolls:

1. Measure wall perimeter and height.
2. Divide total area by 5 m².
3. Add 10 % for pattern matching and wastage (more for large repeats).

Unsure? Ask the supplier through ArchiPro’s enquiry form—many will calculate exact roll counts from your plans.

Installation tips

• Always acclimatise rolls in the room for 24 hours.
• Prep surfaces: fill holes, sand lightly and apply primer-sealer.
• Mark a plumb line before hanging the first drop to avoid creeping patterns.
• Smooth air bubbles with a plastic spatula, not a metal trowel.
• Wipe excess paste immediately with a damp sponge to prevent sheen marks.

Cost expectations

Residential-grade grey wallpaper in NZ starts around $60 per roll, while designer brands and heavyweight vinyls can exceed $250 per roll. Installation by a registered paperhanger typically ranges from $30–$60 per square metre, depending on wall condition and pattern complexity.

Sustainability snapshot

Many manufacturers now offer FSC-certified substrates, water-based inks and low-VOC finishes. Look for Greenguard or EcoLabel certifications when browsing product pages, or consider natural fibre alternatives found in our wall fabrics selection.

Complementary finishes

Pair cool grey wallpaper with warm timber wall panelling for balance, or layer over decorative plaster wainscoting for a luxe, textured ensemble.

Making the most of ArchiPro

Every listing features high-resolution imagery—zoom in to check texture and pattern scale. Use the compare tool to evaluate price, lead time and fire rating side by side. When you’re ready, click “Enquire” to receive quotes, samples or installer recommendations directly from the supplier.

Still exploring? Visit our wall coverings hub for more inspiration and products.