Wallpaper Revival: Trends and Types to Know in 2025

Wallpaper has made a major comeback in recent years, evolving from dated florals to a modern design must-have. With bold prints, textural patterns, and murals becoming staples in interior design, homeowners and designers alike are embracing wallpaper to add personality and drama to a space. Whether it’s a moody powder room, a cozy reading nook, or a statement ceiling, wallpaper is now used more creatively than ever before.

As wallpaper trends rise, so do the options for application—mainly pre-pasted and peel-and-stick varieties. Each type offers distinct benefits depending on your needs, experience level, and how long you plan to keep the wallpaper up.

Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper

Pros:

• Great for renters or commitment-phobes—removable and repositionable.

• Requires no water or paste—just peel the backing and apply.

• Ideal for small spaces, DIY projects, or seasonal refreshes.

Cons:

• Adhesive may weaken over time or in humid environments.

• Can stretch or tear during application if not handled carefully.

• May not stick well to textured or uneven walls.

Pre-Pasted Wallpaper

Pros:

• A more traditional, long-lasting option.

• Activated with water and typically adheres more securely.

• Often available in higher-end designs and materials.

Cons:

• Slightly messier and requires more prep time.

• Less forgiving to reposition once it’s on the wall.

• Removal can be harder and may damage the wall if not done correctly.

Whether you want a temporary splash of style or a more permanent design solution, there’s a wallpaper type to match. As wallpaper continues to trend across home décor boards and designer portfolios, knowing your options helps ensure your walls stay both stylish and stress-free.

As an interior designer, I love using wallpaper to completely transform how a space feels—especially in small rooms. In tight areas like powder rooms, wallpaper acts like art, adding drama, pattern, or personality without taking up physical space. In larger or open-concept spaces, it can be used strategically to define zones, anchor focal points, or create a sense of intimacy. The right wallpaper can either expand the feel of a small space or add depth and warmth to a more expansive one.

If you are interested in starting your wallpaper journey, let us help! There are soooooo many options for color, pattern, and texture that it can be overwhelming to where to start. We can help narrow down what will look good (and what will look bad) in your space, help determine a budget for materials and installation, and and even coordinate the whole project from start to finish if necessary. Reach out to Kelley Kolettis Designs today to get the ball rolling on your next project.

KK