Timeless wallpaper ideas that are sure to elevate any space and how to pair them with paint and wall trim
Wallpaper is my love language. I have always loved wallpaper and it has definitely been making a comeback for a while now.
Wallpaper can add so much color, pattern, and character to a home.
The best part is that wallpaper is the perfect beginner friendly DIY project. It is pretty easy to install and if you choose a peel and stick version it can also be easy to remove.
I have wallpaper sprinkled all around our home, in our latest makeover the dining room, in our playroom, the half bathroom, and the ceiling in the hallway!
Some wallpaper design styles are a bit trendy but some are timeless and remain elegant for decades.
So today I thought I would share some of my favorite timeless wallpaper designs, perfect for any space in your home.
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Classic Wallpaper Styles That Stand the Test of Time
Here are some of my favorite timeless wallpaper designs that will always be in style.
Floral Patterns
Floral patterns are delicate, nature-inspired prints that add charm and warmth.
I chose this bold deep blue floral wallpaper above board and batten to create an accent wall in our dining room.
Our hallway makeover is still one of my favorites. I kept the design very classic and simple but I really wanted to make a statement with the ceiling.
So I added this green floral peel and stick wallpaper for the perfect pop of color and pattern.
Here are some other timeless floral wallpaper finds:
Damask Designs
Damask design is elegant and luxurious, often seen in traditional or vintage-inspired spaces.
I love when damask design wallpaper is featured inside picture frame molding throughout a room. This is a great way to use the pattern without it overwhelming the space.
Here are some timeless damask wallpaper finds:
Stripe Wallpaper
Vertical or horizontal, striped wallpaper create a sense of height or width and work in almost any setting.
There are so many different types of stripe wallpaper patterns, from subtle to intricate designs.
Stripe Wallpaper Finds:
Toile Wallpaper
Toile is a French countryside-inspired print that exudes vintage sophistication.
Toile is like the little black dress of design patterns, it never goes out of style.
Beautiful Toile Wallpaper Finds:
Best Colors for Timeless Wallpaper
Choosing the right wallpaper color is key to achieving a timeless look.
While patterns and textures play an important role, colors have a significant impact on how a space feels and whether it will remain stylish over time.
Here are some of the best color choices for long-lasting appeal:
Neutrals: The Ultimate Classic Choice
Neutral colors like beige, gray, ivory, and taupe are perfect for those who want an elegant and understated backdrop that will never go out of style.
These wallpaper shades provide a clean, calming effect and work well with various decor styles, from modern to traditional.
Why Neutrals Work:
Versatile and easy to pair with furniture and decor
Creates a serene and sophisticated atmosphere
Ideal for small spaces as they reflect light and make rooms feel bigger
Works with both minimalistic and maximalist designs
Soft Pastels: Airy and Timeless
Source – Country Living Magazine
Pastels offer a light, fresh feel while maintaining a soft elegance.
If you are worried more bold colors may go out of style, muted pastel shades—like blush pink, powder blue, sage green, and lavender—have a timeless charm.
Why Pastels Work:
Bring a light and airy feel to a room without being overpowering
Create a soothing, inviting atmosphere
Work well in vintage and cottage-style interiors
Can be used as an alternative to plain white walls for a hint of color
Rich Jewel Tones: Bold Yet Timeless
Deep, rich colors like emerald green, navy blue, burgundy, and deep plum add a sense of luxury and depth to a space.
While bold, these shades have a classic appeal that remains sophisticated through changing trends.
Why Jewel Tones Work:
Evoke a sense of opulence and drama
Timeless in luxurious settings (think Victorian and contemporary glam)
Make a statement while still being elegant
Best used in spaces where warmth and depth are desired
When choosing a wallpaper color, think about how it will age with your decor.
Neutral tones provide flexibility, pastels bring softness, jewel tones create drama.
Combining these colors with timeless patterns ensures that your wallpaper remains stylish for years to come.
Where to Use Timeless Wallpaper in Your Home
Wallpaper is a versatile design element that can completely transform a space.
Whether you choose to go bold with an accent wall or embrace full coverage for an immersive effect, placing timeless wallpaper in the right areas brings character and charm to your home.
Living Room – Accent wall or full coverage for sophistication.
Bedroom – Creates a cozy and stylish retreat.
Dining Room – Adds elegance and enhances ambiance.
Half Bathroom – Small space where bold wallpaper makes a statement.
Hallways & Entryways – Subtle patterns to make transitions more visually interesting.
Tips for Choosing the Right Wallpaper
Choosing the right wallpaper is more than just finding a pattern you like. It’s important to pick a wallpaper that complements your existing decor style, enhances the space, and adds a timeless touch to your room.
Here are some tips for choosing the right wallpaper:
Consider Your Existing Decor and Color Palette
The wallpaper should enhance your current decor rather than clash with it. Before choosing a design, think about your furniture, textiles, flooring, and overall color scheme.
If your decor is neutral, you can either stick with a subtle wallpaper for a seamless look (e.g., textured beige or soft floral) or introduce a statement pattern for contrast.
If your space already has bold furniture or decor, opt for soft, monochrome, or tone-on-tone wallpaper to maintain balance and not overwhelm the room.
Consider undertones—if your room has cool-toned elements (gray, blue, or silver), go for cool-toned wallpaper. If it’s warm-toned (beige, gold, or earthy shades), choose a complementary warm wallpaper.
Coordinate with accent colors—for instance, if you have navy blue throw pillows or curtains, consider wallpaper with subtle navy detailing for a cohesive feel.
Creating a mock up or design board of your room is another great way to ensure everything flows together nicely.
Opt for High-Quality, Removable Wallpaper If You Like to Switch Things Up
If you love experimenting with different styles or live in a rental, removable (peel-and-stick) wallpaper is a great option. High-quality, temporary wallpapers look just as elegant as traditional ones but offer flexibility.
Peel and Stick Wallpaper Benefits:
Easy to install and remove without damaging walls.
Ideal for renters or those who like to refresh their decor frequently.
Available in a variety of textures, patterns, and finishes to mimic traditional wallpaper.
Use Wallpaper to Highlight Architectural Features Like Wainscoting or Moldings
I love pairing wallpaper with wall molding, the two together add so much character and depth to a room. This is also a great way to add wallpaper without it overwhelming a space.
Best Ways to Use Wallpaper with Architectural Features:
Above Wainscoting or Chair Rails – Keep the lower part of the wall in a solid color and apply wallpaper above it for a timeless two-tone effect. Works well in dining rooms, hallways, and home offices.
Ceilings (Fifth Wall Effect) – Using wallpaper on the ceiling creates an unexpected, dramatic impact. Ideal for powder rooms, bedrooms, or hallways.
Framed Wallpaper Panels – If you have decorative picture frame molding, wallpapering inside the panels can create an elegant, framed artwork effect.
With Furniture– Applying wallpaper inside the back of a glass cabinet or on the fronts of cabinet doors or drawers is a fun way to add pattern to piece of furniture.
Timeless Wallpaper Ideas for your Home
Wallpaper is a powerful design tool and choosing the right one is hopefully a little easier with these tips and ideas!
Remember that your home is a representation of your own personal style and your wallpaper should reflect that. It’s just another way to add character and color to a space.
If you are still unsure of which wallpaper to choose don’t be afraid to get samples and see how they work in your room. Sometimes the colors look differently online than they do in real life.
Let me know if these tips were helpful and where you are wanting to add timeless wallpaper in your home!
More Wallpaper Ideas + Tips:
10 Ways to Use Wallpaper to Elevate Any Room
How to Hang Peel and Stick Wallpaper on Ceiling
Dining Room Board and Batten with Wallpaper
Vintage Inspired Peel & Stick Wallpaper Ideas: Plus Install Tips
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