Red Wallpapers

Why choose red wallpaper?

Red is the most emotionally intense colour on the spectrum. It communicates passion, energy and confidence, which explains why a single red feature wall can instantly lift a bland room while a fully wrapped space feels cocooning and luxurious. In New Zealand’s cooler climate, the warm undertones of red wallpaper are also a clever way to offset southerly light and make a room feel physically warmer without turning up the heat pump.

The psychology of red

• Strong reds (scarlet, crimson) stimulate conversation and appetite, making them ideal for dining rooms and cafés.
• Deep reds (burgundy, oxblood) evoke sophistication, perfect for corporate reception areas or formal lounges.
• Soft terracottas and rose shades create a nurturing vibe in bedrooms and wellness studios.

Where red wallpaper works best

• Feature walls: Pair a bold red pattern with neutral paint on the remaining walls to avoid visual overload.
• Hallways & stairwells: Narrow zones become eye-catching galleries with a patterned red and white stripe.
• Kitchens & bathrooms: Choose vinyl-coated or washable options for steam-prone spaces.
• Commercial fit-outs: Hospitality venues often specify black and red wallpaper to reinforce branding and create mood.

Popular styles & finishes

• Bold red wallpaper: Oversized geometrics or floral murals that command attention.
• Black and red wallpaper: High-contrast motifs that add drama in media rooms and bars.
• Textured red brick wallpaper: Achieve an industrial loft aesthetic without structural work.
• Deep red linen effect: Subtle fabric embossing delivers depth and a soft matte sheen.
• Red and blue striped wallpaper: Nautical feel for kids’ bedrooms or coastal baches.

Material options

1. Traditional paper
Cost-effective but requires careful pasting and seam matching.
2. Non-woven / paste-the-wall
Fibre backing adds tear resistance and makes removal easier.
3. Vinyl-coated
Wipeable surface ideal for kitchens, bathrooms and high-traffic commercial areas.
4. Textile-backed
Luxe silk, linen or velvet fronts for boutique hotels and premium residential projects.

Measuring & ordering tips

• Calculate wall area (height × width) then add 10 % for pattern matching and wastage.
• Check the pattern repeat; a 64 cm repeat on a bold red rose design may require an extra roll.
• Order all rolls from the same batch number to ensure uniform colour.
• Not sure? Request a swatch through the product page to see how the red tone behaves under your lighting.

Installation essentials

Most suppliers recommend a smooth, sealed surface. On fresh plasterboard, apply a pigmented sealer/size to aid slip and future removal. For textured walls, consider lining paper first. Always follow the adhesive specification supplied with the product; some deep red and black wallpaper varieties are heavier and need a high-tack vinyl paste.

Maintenance & longevity

Quality red wallpaper resists fading, but UV exposure can dull pigments over time. North-facing rooms benefit from sheer curtains or low-E glazing. For vinyl and scrubbable finishes, clean with a damp microfibre cloth and pH-neutral detergent. Paper-based products should be lightly dusted only.

Sustainability considerations

Look for low-VOC inks and FSC-certified backing papers. Many New Zealand suppliers now offer eco-vinyl free from phthalates. Selecting non-woven or peel-able substrates also reduces waste during future renovations.

Next steps

Ready to explore? Browse our full range of wall & ceiling finishes to see how your chosen red wallpaper pairs with complementary materials. For a warm natural contrast, consider timber wall panels. Prefer soft acoustics? View wall fabrics. After a tactile, artisan look, check out decorative plaster finishes. With ArchiPro you can connect directly with trusted NZ suppliers, request quotes and have samples delivered to your door—so you can bring your vision to life, roll by roll.