Welcome Back, Wallpaper!

Wallpaper is back in a big way, and it’s better than ever. From traditional toile and classic stripes to bold geometrics and leopard prints, wallpaper can take a room from ordinary to extraordinary. That amazing “wow” factor is precisely why we’re so excited to launch our very own wallpaper collection, says Karen Fleenor, Ballard Designs Merchandise Buyer.

“People are very attracted to pattern and texture right now, so it’s a fresh, new way to bring that to the wall,” she says. “I think people are going to love the choices in our new collection.”

The collection is limited to 13 select patterns in a variety of colorways, adds Karen. “We didn’t want to overwhelm our customers with so many choices, so we’re offering a curated collection of patterns for the introduction of our launch.”

Even better, the collection is designed to exist harmoniously with our fabrics, wall décor and furniture finishes – so you’re safe with almost any choice you make. “Our approach was to complement all of our other products, so we didn’t choose papers that would be overwhelming or necessarily a statement on its own,” Karen says. “You don’t want to walk in and notice wallpaper. You want to feel that everything flows together and just works.”

The Power of Wallpaper

The transformative quality of wallpaper is unmatched and goes beyond what is possible with paint. Want to create the illusion of height? Try vertical stripes. Need some texture? Go for the grass cloth. Looking for elegance? Damask will do it. Whether you want to create cozy warmth or make a room feel more spacious, wallpaper can help you achieve any mood.

Wallpaper even works for “commitment-phobes.” “People are lining the insides of bookshelves and cabinets,” offers Karen. “It’s a great way to get the look and feel of wallpaper without committing it to your walls. Papering closet interiors can be really fun, too. Any kind of storage area is a great surprise when you open the door. Or if you love a pattern, you can frame it like art or paste it to a wall panel.”

Sounds great, but didn’t wallpaper always seem like a huge pain to strip off and apply? Not anymore, thanks to today’s advanced technology in wallpaper design, Karen says. “Our line of wallpaper is strippable. As long as the wall is prepared properly, the paper will strip right off without a lot of residue. It’s not like the old days where you had to steam it and really work to get it off.”

Playing Favorites

Well, now that we’re convinced we must wallpaper something, which pattern is right? We asked Karen to share her top favorites, but you can see the entire collection online.

Sisal Twill

“Sisal (above in blue) offers natural texture and coordinates with all of our sisal rugs. It’s a great choice for that customer who enjoys natural elements.”

Mini Damask

“Mini Damask offers small subtle pattern and texture, which works great in smaller rooms. I love this print because it reminds me of a vintage bookplate pattern.”

Lattice Sidewall

“This lattice-style paper brings that contemporary geometric pattern, but in a really delicate, soft way.”

Canopy Stripe (above)

“Stripes are always classic. I love that these wide stripes are bold and dramatic.”

Oversized Tulip Damask

“This large-scale damask print offers a bigger statement for any space.”

Fretwork Trellis (above)

“This one has a great contemporary geometric design, which is so popular right now. It’s a more youthful look.”

Cabin Boards

“The wood panel tongue and groove look is so in right now, and this is a great way to get the look without the investment and commitment. You can also get a similar look with the Birch Bark pattern.”

Browse our entire wallpaper collection here, or find more decorating inspiration by following our Pinterest Boards.