Renovating a room in your home doesn’t always have to involve breaking and entering, dust and high investments. One of the most practical, quick and economical ways to transform spaces is to use wallpaper. Versatile, affordable and with a huge variety of styles, wallpaper has been gaining more and more space in interior design. Whether you want to add a modern, classic, cozy or bold touch, it can be the star of a surprising renovation — without the need for construction work.
Why choose wallpaper?
The main attraction of wallpaper is its practicality. Unlike traditional renovations, which involve specialized labor, time and mess, wallpaper can be applied in just a few hours and, often, by the homeowner themselves. It allows you to change the aesthetics of the room in a radical or subtle way, depending on the pattern, texture and color chosen.
Additionally, wallpaper helps to cover small imperfections on the wall and can be easily removed or replaced, making it ideal for those who like to change their decor frequently or live in a rented property.
Types of wallpaper
Before you start applying, it is important to know the types available:
- Vinyl: made with a layer of PVC, it is resistant to moisture and easy to clean, making it ideal for kitchens, bathrooms and circulation areas.
- TNT (non-woven fabric): offers a more sophisticated finish and is easy to apply and remove. It can be cleaned with a damp cloth and is very durable.
- Traditional (paper): more delicate, recommended for dry areas with little contact. Requires more care in application and maintenance.
- Self-adhesive: practical and easy to apply, it works like a giant sticker. It is perfect for those who want to renovate without using glue.
How to choose the ideal wallpaper
When choosing wallpaper, you should take into account the style of the room, the function of the room and the desired effect. Here are some tips:
- Small spaces: Wallpapers with light prints, vertical lines or small patterns help to visually enlarge the space.
- Large spaces: allow you to be more daring, with large prints, dark colors or striking textures.
- Rooms: opt for soft patterns and colors that convey comfort and tranquility.
- Rooms: These are ideal for wallpapers that create a focal point, such as an accent wall with a texture or geometric pattern.
- Kitchens and bathrooms: choose materials that are moisture-resistant and easy to clean, such as vinyl or self-adhesive.
Application: is it worth doing it yourself?
Yes! Wallpapering can be a very rewarding DIY project. With a little patience and the right tools, you can achieve a professional result. Here are the basic steps:
- Prepare the wall: The surface must be clean, smooth and dry. If there are holes or irregularities, correct them before application.
- Measure and cut: take measurements of the wall and cut the paper with a margin to spare.
- Apply: for models that require glue, apply the glue to the wall or the back of the paper, according to the manufacturer's instructions. For self-adhesive models, remove the protective film little by little while sticking the paper to the wall.
- Smooth it out well: use a spatula or dry cloth to avoid bubbles and ensure good adhesion.
- Refine the finishes: cut off excess with a utility knife on edges, sockets and skirting boards.
If the wall is very large or you want a flawless finish, hiring a professional can be a good option — even so, the cost will be much lower than a complete renovation.
Creative ideas for using wallpaper
In addition to entire walls, wallpaper can be used in creative ways to personalize the room:
- Featured wall: Choose a single wall to feature a bold print, creating a focal point.
- Headboards: use wallpaper to simulate an elegant headboard.
- Niches and shelves: lining the bottom of niches with wallpaper adds depth and style.
- Doors and furniture: Self-adhesive papers can renew doors, drawers or even household appliances with a modern touch.
- Decorative panels: apply to frames or pictures to create decorative compositions.
Care and maintenance
The durability of wallpaper depends on its quality and maintenance. Avoid direct sunlight for long periods, as it may fade. Clean with a dry or slightly damp cloth, avoiding abrasive products. In areas with high humidity, choose resistant models and check the ventilation of the space to avoid mold.
Conclusion
Renovating a space doesn’t have to mean long and expensive projects. Wallpaper offers an affordable, quick solution with surprising results. With so many options available on the market, you can give your home a new look, express your personality and create more pleasant environments without breaking your routine — and, best of all, without making a mess. So, how about choosing a corner of your home and transforming it this week?
