Explore a range of creative wallpaper ideas to help transform your space. From bold patterns to subtle prints, learn about the many unique and stylish ways to enhance your interior so that it reflects your personality.
Using Bold Patterns for a Dramatic Statement
Using bold patterns is one of the most powerful ways homeowners can transform their space and instantly turn a plain wall into a striking design feature. From oversized florals and geometric prints to tropical palms or abstract murals, bold patterns can create drama, energy, and personality in ways that not many design choices can.
However, scale is important when you're working with bold designs. Larger patterns can make a strong impression, and they work best in large areas where they won’t feel overwhelming, while smaller bold motifs can energise small rooms without making them feel compact. The wallpaper's colour also plays a big role in your room's design since high-contrast palettes can add flair to a room, while bold monochrome patterns can create a more subtle impact.
Mixing and Matching Different Wallpaper Styles
Combining different wallpaper styles can be a creative way to add depth, personality, and visual appeal to a room. Rather than relying on a single pattern or finish, combining multiple styles allows homeowners to layer colours and textures and create a more dynamic and curated look.
One popular way of mixing styles is by pairing contrasting patterns. For example, stripes and florals can balance each other out since the stripes add structure while the florals add aesthetics. However, the key to making this style work is to keep a common theme between the patterns, such as a shared colour palette or complementary undertones, so that the designs feel connected.
Mixing smooth, glossy finishes with tactile surfaces like grasscloth, linen, or embossed vinyl can introduce a contrast that's both visually and physically appealing. Whereas a metallic-accented wallpaper that's mixed with a matte, fabric-like finish can make a room feel layered and luxurious.
Additionally, different patterns can be used to define different areas within one space. For example, you could use a dramatic or bold design in a dining area and a softer design in the adjoining living room. When it's executed properly, mixing and matching different wallpapers can create a space that feels personal, stylish, and full of character.
Modern Geometric Designs for a Contemporary Look
Modern geometric wallpaper designs have become a staple for homeowners looking for a contemporary style that feels fresh and versatile. With their clean lines, bold shapes, and rhythmic patterns, geometric wallpapers can instantly transform a room from ordinary to eye-catching. Black-and-white or monochrome geometrics can feel sleek and timeless, whereas pastel or muted tones can soften a room's look and add style without overwhelming the area.
The appeal of geometric patterns lies in their flexibility. Simple designs such as soft chevrons or minimal grids can create a calm, modern backdrop that's ideal for home offices, living rooms, or bedrooms. On the other hand, bold, large-scale hexagons, overlapping circles, or angular motifs can inject energy into a room, which is perfect for homeowners who want to create a feature wall.
Soft and Subtle Prints for a Relaxing Atmosphere
Soft and subtle wallpaper prints are an ideal option for homeowners who want to add a sense of relaxation and warmth to their living spaces. Unlike bold patterns that demand attention, soft prints gently enhance a room and add depth and elegance without overwhelming the eye. By focusing on gentle tones, delicate motifs, and fine textures, soft prints can turn any room into a peaceful retreat.
One of the main benefits of subtle wallpaper is its ability to complement rather than contrast other design elements. Small-scale florals, faint stripes, or faint geometric patterns can add visual interest to a room while still serving as a soothing backdrop for furniture, art and other décor.
Soft prints that use pastels, neutrals, and soft monochromes are perfect for infusing a room with tranquillity. Light blues and greens can make a room feel fresh and airy, while warm tones like beige and cream can make a room feel cosy and refined. When these colours are paired with natural light, they can make rooms feel brighter and more open, while in dimmer spaces, they can add warmth and cosiness.
Soft wallpapers with linen effects, watercolour washes, or lightly embossed details can create a tactile softness that enhances the overall feel of the room. These finishes interact with light in subtle ways and add a sense of depth to the room without creating harsh contrasts.
Enhance and transform your walls with our expert wallpaper hanging services in Edinburgh. At W. Martin, we deliver flawless wallpaper installations, smooth finishes, and stylish designs that can add space, beauty and personality to any room.