When it comes to refreshing a room, wallpaper offers an unparalleled blend of style, versatility, and ease of transformation. The right wallpaper can breathe new life into any space, making it feel more inviting, cohesive, and uniquely yours. But how do you incorporate wallpaper into your existing decor without overwhelming the space? Let's explore some expert tips on mastering the mix.

Why Wallpaper?

Before diving into the how-to’s, let's address the question: Why wallpaper?

Endless Design Options: Wallpaper comes in a vast array of patterns, colours, and textures, allowing for more creativity and personalization than paint.

Texture and Depth: Unlike paint, wallpaper can add a tactile element to your walls, providing a sense of depth and dimension that can make a room feel richer and more layered.

Durability: High-quality wallpaper is durable and can last for many years, making it a cost-effective option in the long run.

Easy Updates: Modern wallpaper is designed for easy application and removal, allowing for hassle-free updates as trends and tastes change.

Focal Points: Wallpaper or murals can be used to create stunning focal points, transforming an otherwise bland wall into a work of art.

 JV Murals Decor - Pacha 40520 (above) & Nizza 40640 (below)

Tips for Incorporating Wallpaper into Your Decor

1. Start Small

If you’re new to wallpaper, start with a small space or a single accent wall. Guest loos, entrances, or behind a bed or sofa are great places to experiment without committing to an entire room.

2. Coordinate with Existing Colours

Choose a wallpaper that complements your existing colour scheme. Look for patterns that incorporate one or two of the main colours already present in your decor. This creates a cohesive look and ensures the wallpaper enhances rather than clashes with your current design.

3. Mix Patterns Wisely

Mixing patterns can be a bold and beautiful design choice, but it requires a careful balance. If your decor already includes a lot of patterns, opt for a more subtle wallpaper design. Conversely, if your furnishings are mostly plain colours, a bold, patterned wallpaper can add the perfect punch of personality.

4. Consider Scale

The scale of the wallpaper pattern should be in proportion to the size of the room. Large patterns can make a small room feel even smaller, while small, intricate patterns can get lost in a large space. Choose a pattern size that complements the room’s dimensions. Of course there’s an exception to every rule and sometimes it’s good to break the common thinking and buck the rule with a large wallpaper in a small space.

5. Texture Matters

Textured wallpaper can add a whole new dimension to your decor. Grasscloth, faux finishes, and embossed vinyls are just a few options that can provide a tactile contrast to smooth painted walls.

6. Create a Feature Wall

Using wallpaper on a feature wall is a popular and effective way to incorporate it into your decor. Choose a wall that naturally draws the eye, such as the one behind your bed or the wall behind your dining table. Think about using a mural instead of wallpaper and create some unique scale, interest and magic in your space.

7. Don’t Forget the Ceiling

For a truly unique look, consider wallpapering the ceiling. This unexpected choice can add a touch of drama and make a room feel more intimate and cosy.

8. Balance with Neutral Furniture

If you’re using a bold wallpaper, balance it with neutral furniture and accessories. This allows the wallpaper to stand out as the focal point without overwhelming the space.

9. Accessorize Thoughtfully

Once the wallpaper is up, accessorize the room with pieces that complement the new design. This might mean adding scatter cushions, rugs, or artwork that picks up on the colours and motifs in your wallpaper.

 JV Cromie - Eclettico 6962 (above) & JV Tiebele - Bantu 6236/Geometric 6216 (below)

Incorporating wallpaper into your existing decor is an exciting way to refresh your space and express your personal style. By considering colour coordination, pattern mixing, texture, and scale, you can create a harmonious and visually stunning environment. Whether you’re making a bold statement with a feature wall or adding subtle elegance with a delicate pattern or texture, wallpaper offers endless possibilities for transforming your home. So why not take the plunge and see what wallpaper can do for your decor?

Explore our vast collection of wallpapers and murals and find the perfect design to elevate your space. With our high-quality, easy-to-install wallpapers, mastering the mix has never been easier. If you reside in Gauteng, pop into our showroom in Kramerville, Johannesburg and get some expert advice.