When it comes to transforming a room without extensive renovations, few options are as effective and affordable as wallpaper. Whether you're drawn to bold prints, soft textures, or minimalist patterns, the right wallpaper can breathe new life into any space. But before you can start peeling and sticking, you need to find the right place to buy it. That’s where wallpaper stores come into play.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about wallpaper stores—from what to expect, how to choose the best one, and tips for making your wallpaper shopping experience smooth and rewarding.
Why Wallpaper is Making a Comeback
Years ago, wallpaper was associated with floral patterns and old-school designs. Today, it's all about modern aesthetics, customizable options, and a wide range of textures and materials. With advancements in printing technology and peel-and-stick solutions, wallpaper is now easier to install, remove, and maintain.
Homeowners and interior designers are rediscovering the magic of wallpaper as a creative way to reflect personality and style. But finding the right pattern is only part of the journey—finding the right wallpaper store is equally important.
What You’ll Find in a Good Wallpaper Store
Not all wallpaper stores are created equal. Some specialize in luxury brands, others in DIY-friendly options, and some focus on environmentally friendly materials. Here are a few features that good wallpaper stores typically offer:
1. Wide Variety of Designs
From vintage florals to modern geometrics, a great wallpaper store will have hundreds (if not thousands) of patterns to choose from. Whether you’re going for a Scandinavian theme, industrial look, or something entirely eclectic, options should abound.
2. Material Choices
Wallpaper comes in different materials: vinyl, paper, textile, grasscloth, non-woven, and more. A good store will educate you about the pros and cons of each and help match the material to your needs.
3. In-House Expertise
Many wallpaper stores employ staff with interior design backgrounds. They can assist with color matching, suggest accent walls, and recommend styles based on your space and lighting.
4. Sample Availability
Before making a big decision, it’s crucial to test a sample on your wall. Reputable stores allow customers to order or take home samples, so you’re confident before committing to a full roll.
5. Installation Services
While some wallpaper types are easy to install yourself, others—like murals or textured options—require professional help. The best stores offer referrals or in-house installers to ensure a smooth finish.
How to Choose the Right Wallpaper Store
Finding the best store involves more than a Google search. Here are some smart ways to narrow your options:
Check Reviews and Testimonials
Online feedback offers insight into the quality of customer service, reliability of shipping, and overall satisfaction.
Visit In Person When Possible
If a local store is available, drop in to see the samples, feel the textures, and ask questions directly. Sometimes the in-store experience can change your entire design plan.
Explore Online Catalogs
Even if you're planning to shop locally, browsing online first can help you identify styles you like and understand pricing ranges.
Ask for Recommendations
Interior designers, friends, or even your painter may have suggestions based on experience.
Local vs. Online Wallpaper Stores
Each has its strengths. Local stores allow for a hands-on experience, which is especially helpful if you're new to wallpaper. You can see the colors in natural light, check material thickness, and even compare how patterns look next to your furniture fabrics.
Online stores, on the other hand, often offer greater variety and sometimes better pricing. Some reputable online wallpaper retailers provide virtual previews, so you can upload a photo of your room and visualize how a particular wallpaper will look.
For the best of both worlds, consider stores that have both a physical showroom and a robust e-commerce platform.
Tips for First-Time Wallpaper Buyers
- Measure Twice: Always double-check your wall dimensions and account for pattern matching. Many people underestimate how much wallpaper they’ll need.
- Order a Little Extra: It’s wise to have one extra roll in case of mistakes or future touch-ups.
- Check Return Policies: Just in case your design plan changes, it’s helpful to know if you can return unused rolls.
- Test Lighting: Patterns can look different depending on the time of day and type of lighting in your room. Try viewing samples in both natural and artificial light.
Popular Trends in Wallpaper Design
If you're wondering what’s currently popular in wallpaper design, here are a few trends you might notice in modern wallpaper stores:
- Botanical Prints: Lush leaves, flowers, and nature-inspired themes are dominating walls in bathrooms, kitchens, and bedrooms.
- Textured Wallpaper: Think linen, faux brick, or metallic sheens. These add depth and richness.
- Murals and Large-Scale Prints: Instead of a repeating pattern, mural wallpaper turns an entire wall into a piece of art.
- Neutral Palettes: Greys, beiges, and earth tones remain a timeless option for subtle elegance.
Final Thoughts
The journey to a beautifully decorated room often begins at your local or favorite online wallpaper store. With so many styles, colors, and textures to choose from, wallpaper offers a fast and impactful way to change the mood of any room.
Whether you're going bold with a tropical theme or understated with soft pastels, the right wallpaper—paired with a reliable store—can elevate your space beyond imagination. Take the time to explore, ask questions, and don’t rush the decision. The perfect wallpaper is out there, waiting to bring your vision to life.