How to choose the right wallpaper for the living room - a guide and inspiring examples
Monday, 2 October 2023   |   Decor tips

How to choose the right wallpaper for the living room - a guide and inspiring examples

We all know perfectly well that our home is a reflection of ourselves. It is here that we express our personal preferences, lifestyle and unique aesthetics. One of the key rooms where our personality expresses itself is the living room. It is the heart of the home, a place where we meet family and friends, relax, work and celebrate important moments.

There are many elements that influence the character of a living room, but one of the most important is choosing the right wallpaper. It gives the interior a unique character and atmosphere. However, when choosing wallpaper for the living room, we encounter many dilemmas: what color to choose? What pattern will match the furniture? What are the trends in interior design?

In this article, we will take a deeper look at the process of choosing living room wallpaper. We will answer these questions, provide practical tips and share inspiration that will help you create a living room that will not only be beautiful, but also reflect your unique personality and style. By reading on, you will find out which wallpaper will be best for your living room to create a space where you will enjoy spending time and welcoming your guests. Ready for an inspiring journey through the world of interior design and arrangement? Here we go!

Wallpaper - get to know your style

The introduction to the topic of choosing the right wallpaper for the living room begins with knowing and understanding your own style. This is the first and most important step, because the entire interior design process depends on it.

Interior style is not only a combination of specific furniture and colors, it is also an expression of our personality and preferences. It can be modern, classic, rustic, industrial or many others. If you are determined about your style, it will be much easier for you to choose a wallpaper that will perfectly fit the concept of your living room.

Personal style analysis - properly selected wallpaper

Regardless of what style you prefer, it is important to know your own taste and style. To do this, consider the following questions:

  • What colors do you like the most?

  • Do you prefer minimalist design or more elaborate interiors?

  • Do you have favorite patterns that you would like to see in your living room?

  • What is your attitude towards modern and classic design elements?

Understanding your preferences will help you choose a wallpaper that reflects your individual style. After defining your style, you can move on to the next step - choosing the color and pattern of the wallpaper.

Some examples of the most popular interior styles:

* Modern: Characterized by simple lines, minimalist design and the use of modern materials such as metal and glass. The colors are usually subdued, often dominated by white and gray.
* Classic: This style is more traditional and elegant. It uses heavier furniture, ornate details and rich fabrics. The colors are usually warm, such as beige, brown or gold.
* Scandinavian: Scandinavian interior style is known for its bright colors, natural materials and * simple, functional furniture. It's a style that promotes comfort and coziness.
* Vintage: This interior style draws inspiration from the past and often uses furniture and decorations from the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s. It is characterized by interesting patterns and colors.
* Ethnic: Ethnic style draws on inspiration from various cultures and often uses exotic patterns, colors and materials.

How to choose a wallpaper color and pattern for the living room?

The color and pattern of the wallpaper are key elements that will influence the look and atmosphere of your living room. Choosing the right colors and patterns can create a unique space that reflects your style and personality.

How is color psychology used in interior design?

Color has a huge impact on our well-being and perception of space. Before choosing a wallpaper color, it is worth understanding the psychology of color and what emotions particular colors can evoke.

  • White: Symbol of purity and simplicity. It creates an impression of spaciousness and is an excellent base for other colors.

  • Black: Elegance and mystery. Black can be used as an accent or combined with other colors.

  • Red: Energy and passion. Red is a dynamic color that can add energy to a room.

  • Blue: Peace and harmony. Blue is associated with relaxation and can be perfect for living rooms.

  • Green: Nature and freshness. Green can create the impression of a cozy oasis.

  • Yellow: Optimism and joy. Yellow attracts attention and can be used as an accent color.

  • Gray: Neutrality and elegance. Gray is often used in modern design.

Consider what emotions you would like to evoke in your living room and choose the color that best suits your vision.

How to choose the right wallpaper for the living room

How to choose the right wallpaper for the living room

Modern living room wallpapers - considering patterns

After choosing the color, you can consider the wallpaper pattern. Patterns can add texture and character to a room. Here are some popular wallpaper designs:

  • Solid color: A simple, solid color wallpaper is minimalist and suits many interior styles. You can combine it with other designs or furniture.

  • Stripes: Stripes can add rhythm and movement to a room. Vertical stripes can lengthen walls, while horizontal stripes add width.

  • Check: Check is a classic pattern that gives a room character and country style.

  • Floral patterns: e.g. floral patterns can add delicacy and romance. They are perfect for living rooms and bedrooms.

  • Patterned wallpapers: Geometric wallpapers are modern and abstract. They can add dynamism and an interesting look.

  • Wallpapers imitating e.g. stone or wood

When choosing a wallpaper pattern, it is also worth paying attention to the scale of the pattern. Large and original patterns can dominate the room, while smaller patterns are more subtle.

Understanding what colors and patterns suit your style and space will allow you to more accurately determine which wallpaper to choose. Then you can move on to the next stage - the size and layout of the room.

How to choose the right wallpaper for the living room

How to choose the right wallpaper for the living room

Living room wallpaper - size and layout of the room

Before you start the process of choosing wallpaper, it is necessary to carefully measure the area of walls you want to cover. Make sure you have accurate dimensions, including windows and doors, which may affect the placement of the wallpaper pattern.

Then prepare a plan on which you will mark the place where the wallpaper will be placed. Consider whether you want to cover all the walls in your living room or just one wall as an accent. The plan will help you understand how many rolls of wallpaper you will need.

Which wallpaper for a small living room and which for a larger space?

Remember that wallpaper can be used to manipulate the optical impression of a space. Here are some tricks to consider:

  • Expanding space: Light colors and delicate patterns can make a room seem larger and more spacious. Avoid heavy, dark patterns on small walls.

  • Minimize the space: Patterns with large elements or dark colors can make a room smaller. This can be useful if you have a large living room and want to create a cozier space.

  • Changing the proportions: Vertical stripes can lengthen walls, while horizontal stripes add width. You can use this effect to adjust the proportions of the room to your preferences.

Careful planning and understanding how wallpaper will affect the space will allow you to achieve the desired effect in your living room.

Living room wallpapers - which material

The material from which the wallpaper is made is important for its durability and appearance. Before making your choice, it's worth understanding the differences between available materials.

Paper wallpapers

This is the most popular type of wallpaper. It is relatively cheap and easy to apply. However, it may be less durable and less resistant to damage than other types of wallpaper.

Vinyl wallpapers

The vinyl surface makes the wallpaper easy to clean and resistant to moisture. It is the perfect wallpaper for kitchens and bathrooms.

How to choose the right wallpaper for the living room

How to choose the right wallpaper for the living room

Non-woven wallpapers

This wallpaper is durable and easy to apply. It is more resistant to damage than paper wallpaper, but is not as flexible as vinyl wallpaper.

Fabric wallpapers

Made from real fabrics, these wallpapers have an elegant and luxurious look. They are perfect for salons, but you need to be careful when caring for them.

Peel and stick wallpapers

Peel and stick wallpapers have an adhesive layer. This means you don't have to bother with spreading the glue. This solution is extremely practical and allows you to experiment with interior design in a simple way. However, remember that when applying self-adhesive wallpapers, it is important that the wall surface is smooth and clean to avoid air bubbles under the wallpaper.

How to choose the right wallpaper for the living room

How to choose the right wallpaper for the living room

Hanging wallpaper in the living room - final tips

When creating a living room interior using wallpaper, it is also worth remembering several key aspects:

  • Before purchasing wallpaper, always order a sample to see what it will look like in real life.

  • If you have any doubts about installation, hire a professional to avoid mistakes.

  • Be bold and creative in your choices, but be careful not to overdo it with decorations.

  • Always maintain and clean your wallpaper regularly to keep it looking beautiful for longer.

Choosing wallpaper is only the beginning of the decoration process. To create a coherent decor, it is worth considering additional decorations and accessories. When choosing accessories, remember about balance and harmony in the interior design.