When it comes to living rooms, wallpaper is a great way to add a pop of colour and pattern that’s easy on the eye. Whether you want to create a relaxed vibe using soft neutrals or a bolder, moodier look, there are so many styles and designs to choose from.
The first step to choosing the right wallpaper for your living room is to think about how the space will be used. Will it be a relaxing retreat or an entertaining zone? You might also consider how the space will be lit – bright light tends to work best in open-plan spaces, for example.
Once you have an idea of how you want to use your living space you can start to pick out wallpapers for your feature wall and perhaps the fifth wall – the ceiling. Feature walls are the ideal place for a wallpaper design that will make a statement and are especially well suited to a strong, bold or dramatic print.
For a sophisticated effect try textured fabric wallpaper. Thicker than standard paper, these wallpapers add a real luxe feel to your walls and can elevate them into five-star-hotel-worthy living room territory.
Alternatively, consider a geometric print to really add some interest to your living room. This slick green and black geometric wallpaper would really stand out against dark wood furniture and accentuate the contrasting shapes of the room. Or you might want to go all out and embrace maximalism by papering the whole room, or even the ceiling, in a bold pattern like this Frida Kahlo-inspired Palms at Copacabana design.
You could also choose a pattern that will be co-ordinating or contrasting with the skirting boards and door frames to help create a considered and unified scheme. A wallpaper with a washable surface is a good choice for family living rooms where children will be playing and eating, as this type of paper is easier to wipe clean than traditional paint.
Blue is the classic colour of choice for lounges and a wide range of shades are available to suit your style. From blue and white polka dots that are reminiscent of vintage fabrics to more calming teals and aqua hues, there’s plenty to choose from.
Green is another popular choice for living rooms, and a subtle shade like this moss-green option from Sanderson’s Simply Severn collection can be ideal for adding a fresh touch to your living space. It’s also perfect for complementing the flora and fauna prints that are currently in fashion.
A wallpaper with a shimmer or shine is a great way to make small or dark living spaces appear larger, as it will reflect light around the room making it feel bigger and more spacious. It’s also a good choice to use in rooms with rich deep color schemes to lift the dark hues and stop them feeling too dark and dingy.