Wallpaper can create an unrivalled decadence in an interior space, just as it can convey a relaxed coastal aesthetic or a unique visual feature. With a myriad of options available in terms of colour, pattern, texture and style, wallpaper is a versatile way to add elements of interest to an interior scheme.

What types of wallpaper are suitable for a bathroom?

Wallpaper is a popular choice for decorating bathrooms because it often provides a simple solution to create a bold visual impact. However, not all wallpapers are suitable for wet areas so it pays to know the difference between a paper designed specifically for use in wet areas and one that’s not.

Most wallpapers recommended for use in wet areas are made with vinyl or vinyl-coated materials. While many wallpapers may be suitable for bathrooms and wet areas, in the majority of cases, it is not recommended to use wallpapers around shower, bath or vanity areas where they are likely to be directly splashed with water frequently.

A popular way to use wallpaper in bathrooms is to create a feature wall as an alternative to tiles or paint. Wallpaper offers design freedom in terms of the colours, patterns and textures it allows.

What are wallpaper tiles?

Creating a tile-look feature with wallpaper has become a popular cost effective alternative to the use of traditional wall tiles. Using wallpaper to create a tile-look feature can offer a unique set of options in terms of colour, pattern and three-dimensional effects.

Whether it’s Moroccan-inspired or subway tiles, using wallpaper to recreate these classic styles is a quick and effective way to transform an interior space. Vibrant colour and intricate patterns create the illusion of real tiles, often so well that tile wallpapers are virtually indistinguishable from the real thing.

Creating a feature wall with wallpaper

Feature walls are all about making a statement and wallpaper can be a great way to create a dramatic focal point. The wall chosen as the feature wall in a room is generally the wall where the eyes are first drawn when entering the room. In living areas, this is often the wall with a fireplace or other existing feature. Avoiding walls with windows or doors can make the effect more dramatic as the eyes aren’t taken away from the feature.

If the other walls in the room are more neutral colours, the option to be bold and creative with wallpaper can be an existing design element. Because a feature wall generally makes up a limited amount of the overall wall space in a room, more decorative and vibrant colours and patterns can be used without taking away from the rest of the decor. Often, a feature wall is where creativity can be unleashed with bright colour and pattern - those that aren’t suitable for all four walls of a room. Using plain colour wallpapers for the other walls adds to the effect, allowing the feature wall to stand out.

Mural wallpaper

Mural wallpapers are a popular way to create a feature wall and can add a unique aspect to a room with everything from photo realistic scenes to abstract, three dimensional, floral or geometric patterns. Mural feature walls allow for a great deal of creativity - be it polka dots, botanical prints, art deco-inspired wallpaper or striped, natural, brick or plaid. The options are almost limitless.

The beauty of wallpaper is that it is relatively easily removed, with many wallpaper brands offering stick on and removable wallpapers that can be changed and updated as necessary - a popular option for dramatic feature walls. This style of wallpaper is also a sought after option for children’s bedrooms and bedroom wallpaper. Using wallpaper for children’s bedrooms allows for an easily updatable decor as tastes change over time.

Wood and stone-look wallpaper

Materials such as wood and stone are popular choices for wall coverings, especially in living and entertaining areas of the home where natural textures and a connection to the outdoors is desired. However, utilising the real materials is no longer necessary with the development in photo-realistic wallpapers designed to mimic wood, stone and other natural materials.

Wood and stone-look wallpaper often works incredibly well when used to create a feature wall, and due to its natural aesthetic works well in conjunction with a range of other materials - from traditional to contemporary. With everything from shiplap to chevron and herringbone patterns, the possibilities are endless with this style of wallpaper.