Depending on the look you seek, wallpaper can add elegance, drama, sophistication or even a dash of simple charm to any room in your home. And when it comes to wallpaper design, the possibilities are endless. You can choose from ones that already exist or create one of your own from photographs, drawings or even fabrics.

Pattern basics

Wallpaper patterns fall into one of four basic types. The first is geometric and includes plaids, stripes and grids. Large geometrics add excitement while smaller ones create a subdued effect. Patterns with strong vertical lines make ceilings look higher.A second type is a large scale print. This kind of pattern can add a significant amount of visual interest to a room as well as make a room seem smaller and feel more intimate.

A third type is a small scale print. Its most effective application is that it can add a touch of pattern to the overall room color, forming a subtle backdrop. This type of print is often used in kitchens, bathrooms and is ideal for small spaces.

The fourth type is an overall print that forms a tight pattern. The eye blends the design together, minimizing pattern and emphasizing color. Overall prints can be used in any room when a subtle aesthetic emphasis is desired. A great use is in backs of built in bookcases.

Color and mood can influence a pattern

The colors that comprise any given pattern are what will help to create the mood in a room. A pattern that relies on a single color, and it’s monochromatic variations, will create a restful feeling. Conversely, one that mixes colors that oppose each other on the color wheel creates a dynamic, energized feeling.

The Final Effect

The magical effect of wallpaper ultimately lies in the way it gets combined with other patterns, textures, furnishings in a room.

Soft floral-patterned wallpaper in tandem with matching drapes and slipcovers create great bedrooms. Light-colored wallpaper with low contrast makes rooms – and especially those with lots of natural light – cheerful.

Classically detailed wallpaper patterns mixed with rich colors and dark accent colors create formal settings. Prints that use subdued complementary colors create tranquil, warm rooms, while those that use earth tones with white and simple patterns and textures give a room an earthy appeal.

At Nicole Arnold Interiors, we believe that color and patterns aren’t just tools to decorate a home. They are a form of most intimate self-expression. For stylish custom interiors that are as unique as you are, contact us today!

The deep blue solid, yet textures wallpaper serves as a monochromatic complement to the surrounding wall paint. It's texture is striking, yet allows all the details within the room to be the focus.

Soft, medium scale, tonal wallpaper to cast a subtle complement to the ‘focal point’ bedroom.

Large scale, transitional, botanical print was that this maturing teen desires…quiet sophistication.

Fun leopard print paper in a tween’s bath vanity area.

The deep blue solid, yet textures wallpaper serves as a monochromatic complement to the surrounding wall paint. It’s texture is striking, yet allows all the details within the room to be the focus.