Thinking about wallpapering a room but not sure whether to go bold with all four walls or keep it subtle with just one feature wall? You’re not alone. Wallpaper is one of the most versatile design tools, it can completely transform the feel of a space, add personality, and highlight architectural details. But perhaps the biggest question tends to be: should you wallpaper one wall, the whole room, or something in between?
There’s no single right or wrong answer (although many designers do have strong opinions on this!). The best choice depends on your space, style, and goals. In this guide, we’ll explore when an accent wall works best, when an all-over wallpapered room makes the biggest impact, and how to experiment with creative approaches like half-walls or even wallpapering the ceiling. By the end, you’ll have the confidence to choose the right approach for your home.
Wallpapering: One Wall or the Whole Room?
Wallpaper isn’t going anywhere, it’s enjoying a huge revival thanks to the incredible variety of designs now available. More and more of us are moving toward homes filled with personality and storytelling, something I’m truly passionate about.
When deciding between an accent wall or wallpapering the whole room, start by asking yourself:
- What’s the focal point when you walk into the space?
- Does the room get lots of natural light, or is it quite dark?
- Are there architectural features like fireplaces, built-in shelving, arches, or dado rails?
- Most importantly: how do you want the room to feel, warm and inviting, or bold and bright?
And, of course, the wallpaper itself matters. Is it a mural, a delicate pattern, or large and bold? How does the repeat look across a wall?
Let’s break down your options.
When to Choose a Wallpaper Accent Wall
Accent walls can be divisive, you either love them or you don’t. Many designers dismiss them, but I disagree: done well, an accent wall can be a brilliant asset to a room. The trick is to make it feel intentional, not like an afterthought. Simply putting wallpaper on one wall and leaving the others stark white can feel jarring. Instead, use paint and complementary colours to tie the wallpaper into the rest of the scheme.
Accent walls shine in:
Bedrooms – behind the bed as a headboard backdrop.
Bathrooms – a playful print above the bath such as Zebra Parade in Moroccan Ochre (just ensure your wallpaper is suitable, or seal it with decorator’s varnish) adds colour and energy.
Living or dining rooms – murals work beautifully here, creating a dramatic focal point and a conversation piece.
According to Homes & Gardens, accent walls are evolving, with painterly-style murals now the go-to option. This makes them perfect for bold prints and dark colours that might overwhelm a room if used on all four walls.
Another plus? Accent walls are budget-friendly, ideal if you’ve fallen in love with a more expensive wallpaper but don’t want to cover an entire room with it.
When to Wallpaper an Entire Room
Wallpapering an entire room creates an immersive, cohesive atmosphere. This approach works especially well in:
Smaller spaces – like powder rooms, snugs, or home offices, where it can feel jewel-like and cocooning, such as Kirimiri in this small hallway.
Statement spaces – a powder room is the perfect place to go bold, surprising guests with drama and impact. Try Kitito for a glamorous jewel like powder room.
For a softer effect, opt for smaller prints, subtle textures, or tonal patterns. For maximum impact, embrace bolder designs, just be ready to commit!
The Two-Wall or Half-Wall Approach
Can’t decide between an accent wall and going all in? A two-wall or half-wall approach might be for you.
- Two walls: Wrap a design around the corner for more flow and focus.
- Half walls: Traditionally, wallpaper was used above dado rails or wainscoting, and this still works beautifully. It’s a clever way to balance visual interest with proportion, especially in traditional or transitional styles.
This approach is particularly effective in rooms without a strong focal point, or in “walk-through” spaces like hallways.
Wallpaper for Ceilings (The Fifth Wall)
For maximum drama, don’t forget the ceiling. Known as the “fifth wall,” it’s often overlooked but can completely change a room’s atmosphere.
Dining rooms, cloakrooms, and bedrooms are ideal candidates. A wallpapered ceiling can feel luxurious, cocooning, and even theatrical.
Think metallics, starry skies, or textured wallpapers for added luxe. As The English Home points out, designers are increasingly using ceilings as “the largest expanse of space in a room for pattern and colour.”
How Room Size & Lighting Affect Wallpaper Choices
- Small rooms: All-over wallpaper creates a jewel-box effect.
- Large/open-plan rooms: Accent or half walls may be better, helping to anchor the space.
- Lighting: Dark wallpaper absorbs light and feels cosy; lighter designs reflect it, making a room brighter.
- Pattern scale: Large-scale designs need careful placement in smaller rooms, where they can overwhelm.
Budget, Time & Maintenance Considerations
Wallpapering a whole room naturally costs more than a single wall. But also consider:
- Quality: Higher-end wallpaper tends to be thicker, easier to hang, more durable, and often wipeable, perfect for high-traffic areas.
- Lower-cost wallpaper: Often thinner, more prone to tearing, and less forgiving to install.
Think about the long-term upkeep as well as the upfront cost.
Combining Paint & Wallpaper for Balance
Wallpaper rarely works in isolation, it sings when paired with paint. Take a sample of your wallpaper to a good paint store and find a complementary or tonal colour.
Ways to combine:
Pair a bold design like Kitito (Dark Blue) with Farrow and Ball’s Brinjal from dramatic effect, pictured below. Use the paint colour on skirting boards, coving, and doors to tie the scheme together.
Balance a bold wallpaper with softer painted walls.
Highlight trims in a complementary shade to make wallpaper pop.
This approach creates cohesion and ensures the wallpaper feels part of the room, not separate from it.
Wallpaper Trends to Try (2025 Update)
- Textured neutrals – grass cloths, linen effects.
- Botanical & nature-inspired prints – think Kirimiri or Kitito.
- Geometric & Art Deco revivals – perfect for small jewel-like spaces.
- Painterly murals – exotic landscapes with a hand-painted feel.
- Peel-and-stick – a great option for renters or commitment-shy decorators.
Final Thoughts: Finding the Right Balance
Wallpaper is all about balance—and sometimes a little trial and error. If you’re nervous, start small: wallpaper one wall or the tiniest room in your home for maximum impact. Once you’ve built confidence, you can add more.
Remember, you’re decorating for you, not for trends. Consider your style, how you use the space, and of course, your budget. With so many options, there’s a wallpapering solution for every room and personality.
I hope this gives you the confidence to embark on your wallpaper journey. Whether you go bold on one wall, wrap an entire room or even paper your ceiling, wallpaper is one of the most powerful tools for creating a home that truly reflects who you are.
✨ Shop the Look
Love this idea? Recreate the look with these wallpapers from our collection:
Kitito → Wrap a room
Kirimiri→ Jewel Box effect
Zebra Parade → Accent wall
👉 Browse the full collection here »
🦓Zebra Parade Moodboard
Sofa →Loaf
Ottoman → The House Upstairs
Lamps → Pooky
Rug → Oblist
Blue Suzani Cushion → Wildash London
Console Table → Scout Design Studio
Impy Geometric Ochre Linen Decorative Pillow → Decor Pad
Lumbar Cushion → Pottery Barn