How to Use Wallpaper to Elevate Small Spaces

DIYsInterior Styling TipsRecommendationsInterior DesignArt

Jan 25

Wallpaper is one of the easiest ways to transform a home, especially when used thoughtfully in smaller spaces. From laundry rooms and entryways to bedroom nooks and bay windows, wallpaper adds depth, texture, and personality without requiring a full-room commitment.

Across my home, I’ve used a mix of peel-and-stick and traditional pasted wallpaper at different price points. Many of the patterns I gravitate toward are culturally inspired, allowing wallpaper to function not just as décor, but as art and storytelling.

Why Small Spaces Are the Best Place to Start With Wallpaper

If you’re hesitant about wallpaper, start small. Some of the most impactful applications are in:

Entryways
Bedroom or study nooks
Bay windows
Laundry rooms
Reading corners

Wallpaper in these areas creates visual interest while keeping the rest of the home calm and cohesive.

Design tip: Smaller spaces allow you to experiment with bold patterns without overwhelming your home.

Bay window nook featuring patterned wallpaper installation, creating a warm, layered seating area with added visual interest and natural light.

Wallpaper as Art: Adding Culture, Pattern, and Meaning

Wallpaper can be a powerful way to layer cultural influence into your home. Patterns inspired by block prints, florals, or heritage motifs add richness and intention, especially when paired with simple furnishings and neutral finishes.

Rather than feeling trendy, these designs feel timeless and personal.

An entryway is the first impression of a home. Here, Moroccan-inspired wallpaper brings texture, movement, and a sense of heritage to the space.

Color-Matching: The Key to a Cohesive Look

One of my go-to design techniques is pulling a color directly from the wallpaper and matching the surrounding paint.

This:

Makes wallpaper feel custom
Reduces visual clutter
Elevates even affordable wallpaper

Color-matching works especially well in nooks, entryways, and laundry rooms.

Peel-and-Stick vs. Pasted Wallpaper

Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper

Best for:
Bedrooms, offices, entryways, accent walls

Pros:

DIY-friendly
Easier removal
Great for renters

Cons:

Can lift over time
Not ideal for humid spaces

Traditional Pasted Wallpaper

Best for:
Bathrooms, laundry rooms, long-term installs

Pros:

More durable
Better adhesion
Cleaner seams

Cons:

More complex installation
Often requires a professional

Design note: For bathrooms or moisture-heavy spaces, pasted wallpaper is usually the better choice.

Wallpaper Cost Breakdown

Wallpaper pricing varies widely, which makes it flexible for many budgets.

Budget-friendly: $40–$80 per roll
Mid-range: $100–$200 per roll
High-end / artisan: $250+ per roll

Using an investment wallpaper in a small space is a great way to get a high-impact look without a high overall cost.

DIY vs. Hiring a Professional

DIY if:

Using peel-and-stick
Walls are smooth
The space is small

Hire a pro if:

Using pasted wallpaper
Pattern matching is complex
Walls are textured

Professional installation can protect your investment, especially with high-end wallpaper.

Nervous About Wallpaper? Try These First

If you’re unsure, start with:

The back of bookshelves
A small entryway
A bay window
A laundry room

These areas offer high impact with lower risk.

Wallpaper doesn’t need to be overwhelming. When used intentionally, it can elevate small spaces, reflect personal style, and add layers of meaning to your home, one wall at a time.