Wallpaper or Paint? A Decorator's Opinion

Everyone who has done a renovation has probably faced the question: should you wallpaper or paint your walls? The choice depends on personal preferences, budget, and the overall concept of your interior. Together with our expert, Anastasia Filimonova, we'll examine the pros and cons of each option.

Anastasia Filimonova - Interior Decorator Creating a unified and harmonious style for your home

Paint - any color to suit your taste

One major advantage of construction paint is that you can choose any shade. Today, many paint manufacturers offer extensive color palettes with over 100 shades.

Recommendation: Before buying paint, purchase one liter for a test. Paint white A3 paper in two layers and check the color under different lighting conditions in the space where you plan to paint the walls.

Sometimes paint is the only suitable option

For example, if you have a wooden or brick wall, it's easier to paint with paint than to apply wallpaper. Yes, you can cover the wall with a sheet that is easy to stick wallpaper on, but if it's important to keep the material's texture, paint is better.

Easy to Change

You can buy paint anytime: visit a building supply store, get the color matched to your needs, and walls are ready for painting! If you don’t like the shade, it's easy to repaint in a new one.

Exact Color Match

If you want to choose a paint color that matches your cabinet or painting, or perhaps find a shade that complements your textiles, this is easy with a wide color palette. By the way, many paint collections correspond to the RAL color system (an internationally recognized standard used in almost all industries). Matching wallpaper to furniture is much more difficult.

If You Want to Add a Pattern

If you have painted walls, you can apply any stencil. I recommend hiring professionals for stenciling. You can also draw any design on the wall with a professional artist.

Paint is More Expensive

Preparing walls for painting will cost about twice as much. You need to plaster, spackle, and apply glass cloth. Wallpaper is easier because imperfections in the wall won't show through a thick layer.

Paint is Ideal for Quick Interior Updates

Color is the most powerful tool to change your interior's mood! I love using this tool in my projects. Because you can repaint walls in just a day or two. Paint can be applied to various surfaces: walls, furniture, decor, and more.

Paint is Easy to Clean

If you use quality interior paint, it's easy to restore, wash, or wipe down. This is easier than re-sticking wallpaper.

Wallpaper - A Simple Way to Add Depth to Interior

A proven method: to create a deep interior, add an accent wall. Usually placed behind a sofa or bed headboard. This can be a monochrome solution or realistic, stylish photo wallpaper.

Wallpaper is Easier to Choose

To choose different shades for an interior, you need inspiration, taste, or work with a skilled decorator. Choosing one wallpaper and covering a room is simpler!

Wallpaper is Easier to Apply

You can apply wallpaper yourself if you wish. It's especially easy with flocked wallpapers that don't require gluing.

Each option has its pros and cons. When choosing, consider your budget, the concept of your interior, and your personal preferences.

Cover: Design project Kutenkovs Project