8 Designer Wallpaper Brands to Transform Your Living Space
If you want to give your living space a fresh and stylish look, designer wallpaper is an excellent option. With endless patterns, colors, and textures to choose from, finding the perfect wallpaper can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top eight designer wallpaper brands, along with their pros and cons, alternatives, step-by-step guides on how to choose and install wallpaper, and some tips to make sure your wallpaper lasts for years to come.
Who are the Top 8 Designer Wallpaper Brands?
- Farrow Ball
- Cole Son
- Graham Brown
- Osborne Little
- Thibaut
- Phillip Jeffries
- Schumacher
- Harlequin
Farrow Ball
Farrow Ball is a British brand known for its unique, handmade wallpapers. Their papers are made using traditional methods and natural pigments, giving them a rich, velvety texture. They offer a range of patterns, from bold geometric prints to delicate florals.
Pros:
- High-quality materials
- Unique, handmade designs
- Wide variety of patterns and colors
Cons:
- Expensive
- Limited availability in some areas
Alternatives:
- Sanderson
- Little Greene
Cole Son
Cole Son is another UK-based brand that’s been producing wallpaper since 1875. They offer a wide selection of prints, including many historic designs that have been updated for modern tastes.
Pros:
- Large collection of historic and modern designs
- High-quality materials
- Good value for money
Cons:
- Some patterns may be too busy for small spaces
- Limited selection of solid colors
Alternatives:
- Pierre Frey
- Nina Campbell
Graham Brown
Graham Brown is a UK-based brand that’s been around since 1946. They’re known for their trendy, contemporary designs and affordable prices.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Wide variety of modern designs
- Easy to install
Cons:
- Lower quality than some other brands
- Limited selection of historic patterns
Alternatives:
- Brewster Home Fashions
- York Wallcoverings
Osborne Little
Osborne Little is a British brand that’s been producing wallpaper since the 1960s. They offer a range of patterns, from classic to modern, and use high-quality materials like silk and linen.
Pros:
- High-quality materials
- Sophisticated, timeless designs
- Large selection of geometric patterns
Cons:
- Expensive
- Some patterns may be too formal for casual spaces
Alternatives:
- Colefax and Fowler
- Zoffany
Thibaut
Thibaut is an American brand that’s been producing wallpaper since 1886. They offer a wide variety of patterns, from traditional to modern, and use eco-friendly materials whenever possible.
Pros:
- Wide variety of patterns and colors
- Eco-friendly options available
- Good value for money
Cons:
- Some patterns may be too busy for small spaces
- Limited selection of solid colors
Alternatives:
- Ralph Lauren Home
- Kate Spade New York
Phillip Jeffries
Phillip Jeffries is an American brand that’s been producing wallpaper since 1976. They specialize in natural materials like grasscloth, which gives their papers a unique texture.
Pros:
- Unique textures and materials
- Large selection of natural materials
- Customization options available
Cons:
- Expensive
- Grasscloth can be difficult to install
Alternatives:
- Elitis
- Maya Romanoff
Schumacher
Schumacher is an American brand that’s been producing wallpaper since the early 20th century. They’re known for their luxurious, high-end designs and use of materials like silk and cashmere.
Pros:
- High-quality materials
- Sophisticated, luxurious designs
- Large selection of animal prints
Cons:
- Expensive
- Limited availability in some areas
Alternatives:
- Kravet
- Brunschwig Fils
Harlequin
Harlequin is a UK-based brand that’s been producing wallpaper since the 1960s. They offer a wide variety of patterns, from bold geometric prints to delicate florals.
Pros:
- Wide variety of patterns and colors
- Good value for money
- Durable and washable
Cons:
- Some patterns may be too busy for small spaces
- Lower quality than some other brands
Alternatives:
- Cole Son
- Thibaut
What to Consider When Choosing Wallpaper
Before you choose a wallpaper brand or pattern, there are several factors to consider:
- Room size: Busy patterns canmake a small room feel even smaller, while larger patterns can overwhelm a large room. Consider the size of your room and choose a pattern that will complement it.
- Lighting: The amount and type of lighting in a room can affect how a wallpaper pattern looks. Consider the natural light sources and artificial lighting when choosing a pattern.
- Color scheme: Choose a pattern and color that complements the rest of your decor, or use wallpaper as a starting point for a new color scheme.
- Material: Wallpaper is available in a wide range of materials, from vinyl to silk to grasscloth. Consider the durability and maintenance requirements of each material before making a choice.
- Installation: Some patterns may be more difficult to install than others, especially if they require matching or trimming. Consider hiring a professional installer if you’re unsure about the process.
When to Use Wallpaper
Wallpaper is a versatile design element that can be used in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas:
- Accent wall: Use wallpaper on one wall to create a focal point in a room.
- Ceiling: Add interest to a ceiling with a bold wallpaper pattern.
- Backsplash: Use wallpaper as a backsplash in a kitchen or bathroom for an unexpected twist.
- Whole room: Cover all four walls of a room with wallpaper for a cohesive look.
How to Choose and Install Wallpaper
Here’s a step-by-step guide on choosing and installing wallpaper:
- Measure your walls: Measure how much wallpaper you’ll need by calculating the square footage of your walls.
- Choose a pattern and material: Consider the factors mentioned above and choose a pattern and material that fits your needs.
- Order samples: Order samples of your chosen wallpaper to make sure the color and pattern work well in your space.
- Prep your walls: Make sure your walls are clean, dry, and smooth before applying wallpaper.
- Apply adhesive: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to apply wallpaper adhesive to your walls.
- Hang wallpaper: Starting from the top of the wall, align the edge of the wallpaper with a plumb line and smooth out any bubbles or wrinkles as you go.
- Trim edges: Use a straight edge and a sharp knife to trim excess wallpaper at the ceiling and baseboard.
- Enjoy your new look: Stand back and admire your newly transformed space!
Pros and Cons of Using Designer Wallpaper
Pros:
- Offers unique patterns and designs not found in standard wallpaper options.
- High-quality materials and production methods ensure a long-lasting finished product.
- Can add interest and depth to a room, creating a focal point or contributing to an overall design aesthetic.
Cons:
- Often more expensive than standard wallpaper options.
- Limited availability may make it harder to find exactly what you want.
- Some designer wallpaper brands require professional installation, which can add to the cost.
Alternatives to Designer Wallpaper
If designer wallpaper isn’t in your budget or doesn’t fit your style, there are alternative options to consider:
- Paint: A fresh coat of paint can completely transform a room and is often the most affordable option.
- Wall decals: Vinyl wall decals come in a variety of patterns and styles and can be easily removed without damaging walls.
- Textured wall treatments: Options like faux brick, wood paneling, or grasscloth can add texture without the commitment or cost of wallpaper.
- Stenciling: Create a custom pattern using stencils and paint for a unique, personalized effect.
Tips for Installing and Maintaining Wallpaper
- Hire a professional installer if you’re unsure about the installation process.
- Use a wallpaper primer to create a smooth surface before applying wallpaper.
- Make sure your walls are clean and free of debris before applying wallpaper.
- Avoid exposing wallpaper to direct sunlight, which can cause fading.
- Clean wallpaper with a soft, damp cloth and mild detergent if needed.
The Best Designer Wallpaper Brand
Choosing the best designer wallpaper brand depends on your personal style and needs. However, based on our research and the factors mentioned above, we recommend Farrow Ball for their unique, handmade designs, high-quality materials, and wide variety of patterns and colors.
FAQs
- Can I install wallpaper myself?
- Yes, but it can be tricky and time-consuming. Consider hiring a professional installer if you’re unsure about the process.
- How do I calculate how much wallpaper I need?
- Measure the height and width of each wall in feet, then multiply the two numbers together to get the square footage. Add up the square footage of each wall to determine how much wallpaper you’ll need.
- Can wallpaper be removed easily?
- It depends on the adhesive used and the type of wallpaper. Some wallpapers are designed to be easily removed, while others may require more effort.
- What’s the best way to clean wallpaper?
- Use a soft, damp cloth and mild detergent to gently clean wallpaperif needed. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrub brushes, as they can damage the wallpaper.
- How long does designer wallpaper typically last?
- Designer wallpaper is often made with high-quality materials and production methods, meaning it can last for several years or even decades with proper care and maintenance.
Conclusion
Designer wallpaper is a great way to add visual interest and style to your living space. With a wide variety of brands, patterns, and materials to choose from, there’s something to suit every taste and budget. Consider the factors mentioned in this article when choosing and installing wallpaper, and don’t forget to take care of it properly once it’s up on your walls. Happy decorating!
