Wallpaper 2021: What’s Trending in Wall Décor

Wallpaper is having a moment — and for good reason. It’s a sure-fire way to give any room an instant update. New patterns, printing techniques, and finishes offer endless options for every décor and budget.

Not surprisingly, what’s trending right now is timelessness, according to José Donez, Texas sales representative for Innovations in Wallcovering. “With all the craziness in the world, clients are opting for designs that will withstand the test of time.”

Which by no means translates to boring. It comes down to discovering your own personal taste, says Stylecaster writer Maggie Griswold.

“Find a pattern or design that fits your style and run with it.”

“You’ll be amazed at how much a few pieces of papers can change the look and feel of a space.”

Here, what’s new and noteworthy for 2021.

Peace and Tranquility

The comfort trend is huge this year — even down to your choices in wallpaper. Innovation’s “Serenity” collection adds a chill vibe to any room. Also in this category: “Oasis” from Phillip Jeffries, a modern ombré design created with layers of digitally-printed brushstrokes.  

A Metallic Moment

Take a shine to ultra-luxe metallics. Sure, you can go over-the-top (think Flavor Paper’s Cherry Forever mylar paper). Or try something more subdued, like this Green & Gold Gingko wallpaper. It makes a chic statement without taking over the room. Still too much commitment? No worries. RoomMates’ version is peel-and-stick, so feel free to change your mind.

Seeing Speckles

Minimalists and maximalists alike can get behind this trend. There are plenty choices for those who prefer a more dramatic look. Prefer neutrals? Consider this playful, budget-friendly, black-and-white wallpaper from Opalhouse.

Pantone’s Picks

Even wallpaper has gotten into the act when it comes to Pantone’s two 2021 colors of the year: Ultimate Gray and Illuminating, a combination of dull, familiar gray and the bright yellow of lemon skin. “It’s a choice for the past year of quarantine, a time in which we had to insulate ourselves from the world and curl up in monochrome blankets at home,” according to Art News. This on-trend combo comes in an array of patterns and styles — subtle, striking, and everything in-between.

To the Max

Go bold or go home — or in this case, do both. If staring at the same four walls this year has become a bit humdrum, wallpaper is a way to step outside your comfort zone. If covering an entire room seems like too much, start with an accent wall — it can often have the same effect as a large-scale piece of art. Or use to line cabinets, shelves, or drawers.

Preserving the Planet

Wallpaper used to get a bad rap. (Remember the chemical-laden vinyl papers in the 1960s?) Today, an increasing number of designers are featuring non-toxic, environmentally-friendly sustainable options. What to look for: water-based inks, recycled papers, and renewable materials like bamboo, stone, burlap, linen, and cork.  

Phillip Jeffries not only offers stunning and sustainable wall coverings, but actively gives back: For every order placed, the family-owned wallpaper producer plants a tree in collaboration with the Arbor Day Foundation.

Innovations in Wallpaper’s take on the trend is especially timely. Its stylish and eco-minded Aerial collection — printed on cork — is inspired by city shapes and shades spotted from an airplane window.

“If you can’t get away, this travel-inspired geometric design is the next best thing,” says Jose.