Wallpaper's back: designer secrets to revitalize your walls

Let's be honest: your walls are probably feeling neglected. After the initial rush of furnishing a home – the plush rug, the inviting sofa, the crisp sheets – wall décor often falls by the wayside. Decision fatigue sets in, resulting in a few framed photos and a coat of neutral paint. But what if a simple, transformative solution lay within reach? Wallpaper, it seems, is having a serious moment, and the design world is brimming with options.

Beyond beige: the return of statement walls

The power of wallpaper isn't just aesthetic; it's architectural. As Oliver Furth, Los Angeles-based interior designer, explains, “Items rely on a strong background or ‘envelope.’ Nothing transforms a space more than a good envelope. I love using wallpaper to create mood or add coziness.” It’s about more than just covering a surface; it’s about crafting an atmosphere.

But where to begin? The sheer volume of brands, patterns, and colorways can be overwhelming. So, we went straight to the source, querying 15 leading interior designers about their go-to wallpaper suppliers—the under-the-radar gems that consistently deliver impact and style. Forget endless scrolling; these are the experts' picks.

Milton & King, according to Gabrielle Bove, provides “a wealth of beautiful options at a lower price point.” Their bouquet metallic wallpaper, for example, offers an “otherworldly” feel with its striking color story. Perfect for high-impact spaces like powder rooms or laundry rooms.

For those seeking a splurge, Courtnay Tartt Elias swears by de Gournay. Their hand-painted wallpapers are, as she puts it, “truly artisans.” One client’s dining room showcased this beautifully, with a custom Colony pattern featuring a playful, personalized twist—a big cat adorned with flowers and a monkey delivering a letter. “Every time a guest notices it, the room tells a story that belongs only to them.”

Antoinette Poisson, lauded by Mary Graham and Nicole Salvesen, offers romantic designs inspired by 18th-century French aesthetics. Their Baies wallpaper, with its delicate and playful nuance, is a perennial favorite.

Claire Staszak highlights Isidore Leroy, a French house known for its immersive and beautifully crafted papers. “Wallpaper is the ultimate storytelling tool,” she asserts, evident in her own collection featuring the incredibly dynamic Marbré de Venise, inspired by Venetian bookbinding traditions.

Melissa Lee appreciates Greenly Living's Petal wallpaper for its versatility, offering a similar aesthetic to more permanent wallcoverings. Robin Rains champions Porter Teleo, praising its hand-painted panels and customizable options. “These papers leave a lasting impression in large and small spaces,” she notes.

Ryan Saghian favors heritage brands like de Gournay, Gracie, and Little Greene, citing their craftsmanship and history. Little Greene’s Capricorn, with its “quiet, rhythmic quality,” provides subtle movement and texture—a testament to understated impact. Beth Diana Smith is drawn to Chasing Paper’s vibrant collection, particularly A Song for Mollie, describing it as “fun, abstract, and curvy.”

Jessica Risko Smith relies on Morris & Co. for timeless designs with “proportions that are simply correct.” Karen Asprea advocates for Rebel Walls, appreciating their peel-and-stick options in addition to traditional wallpaper; she’s currently using Vintage Clouds in her own apartment.

Jennifer Miller appreciates Lake August’s artistic approach, where each wallpaper originates as a painting or hand-carved block print. Their Fox in the Snow, she says, is a “whimsical” pattern with a beautiful interplay of animal and botanical motifs.

Gerald Isaac highlights belarteSTUDIO’s Swedish sensibilities and the seamless installation approach afforded by their custom sizing. Cynthia Ferguson loves Phillip Jeffries’ diverse range of textures and colors, particularly their Juicy Jute grasscloth. Diana Lombaxrd champions Elworthy Studio, praising its organic and earthy designs.

Ultimately, the choice is yours. But one thing is clear: the days of blank, boring walls are over. A few strategically chosen panels of wallpaper can be the most impactful and cost-effective upgrade you make this year.

The numbers don't lie: wallpaper sales surge

According to the latest industry reports, wallpaper sales have increased by 25% year-over-year, with a 40% spike in online searches for designer-approved patterns. The trend isn't just about aesthetics; it's a reflection of a desire for individuality and a rejection of mass-produced, impersonal interiors. The wall, it appears, is ready for its close-up.