Russian Wallpapers

Domestic wallpapers: Russian realities

Russian wallpapers are mostly perceived as derivative by consumers. Main fashion trends in wallpaper design typically reach the masses not through local designers, but unfortunately, from Western Europe. It is also from there that most technologies have been adopted. Currently, we can only copy foreign designs 'quietly,' or pay significant fees for licensed reproductions.

Photo 1 — Example of Russian wallpapers

Looking historically, everything up to today has followed the same pattern: in the USSR, production of Russian wallpapers (of course, only paper-based at the time) developed through cooperation with European countries that were part of the alliance.

Our factories also face challenges in updating product catalogs. Italian and German manufacturers (SIRPI, Marburg, Rasch) spend enormous sums on wallpaper design, employing a similarly large number of designers. For our manufacturers, such a creative team is simply unaffordable; those who don't fit into management's budget 'in a penny,' end up profiting from their mediocre creativity.

Of course, there are positive aspects. For example, quality of our wallpapers remains acceptable. Subsidiaries controlled by foreign manufacturers, such as Erismann and ART, produce fairly good products. Unfortunately, they are not as appealing as the original designs from the parent companies. Also, thanks to close partnerships with Italian producers, a new product has emerged: Russian frescoes made on a special base using a complex technology — Applico frescoes (base: non-woven wallpapers).

Photo 2 — Non-woven Russian wallpapers

Moreover, the Italian production of non-woven wallpapers by Loymina continues to function successfully. These wallpapers maintain an average market price and are closer in style and design to European models.

Wallpapers (Russia): Buy at Affordable Prices

What is considered an 'affordable' price is well understood by domestic producers, which is why we see such a price 'painting' on the market:

Elysium − around $10 per roll;
Erismann − no more than $25 per roll;
ART − on average up to $19 per roll;
Palette − rarely exceeds $30, typically stays at $12–15 per roll;
Victoria Stenova − up to $47 per roll;
Fresco Decori − up to $190 per fresco (practically the only representative in the 'above-average' price category).

Belarusian Wallpapers: Prices Remain the Same

The situation on the Belarusian wallpaper market has remained nearly unchanged from year to year. GOMELLOBOI and BELLOBOI supply products to the Russian market at prices 'below reasonable cost' — meaning sales at $1, $2, and $5 per roll. Of course, they are paper-based and will likely deteriorate within five years. But over five years, it's easy to save enough for another few rolls. Naturally, each manufacturer's catalog also includes more expensive, and therefore more durable options (vinyl and non-woven wallpapers are successfully produced).

Nevertheless, demand exists — the product is available. The 'below-average' price segment survives only on this basis (both for producers and buyers). Interestingly, Belarusian wallpapers feature more vibrant designs than local Russian creativity.

Photo 3 — Belarusian wallpapers

Should You Buy Belarusian Wallpapers?

Yes, if you want to get decent, simple wall coverings at a very low price, without expecting decorative flair, originality, or interior harmony. Just plain, affordable wallpaper.

No, if you care about how your room will look not only after five years, but throughout the entire five-year period.