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how to combine wallpaper and paint

How to combine wallpaper and paint?

The choice and combination of wall coverings are essential to create a unique and personal ambiance in your home. Wallpaper and paint are the two most common options, but how do you combine them effectively? Here are some tips for successfully combining them, finding the right harmony between patterns, textures, and colors.

Different ways to combine wallpaper and paint

There are as many possibilities for combinations as there are color and pattern options. However, some compositions can yield interesting results:

  • A single wall covered with wallpaper, with the other walls painted in a coordinating or matching color (also known as an "accent wall").
  • Combining wallpaper with wainscoting: the wall is covered with wallpaper on the upper part and paint on the lower part.
  • Mixing wallpapers: blend several patterns or textures of wallpaper on the same wall or different walls in the room to create a dynamic and original space.
  • Alternating stripes: the wall features wide vertical stripes alternating between paint and wallpaper.

It’s important to note that these suggestions are not exhaustive and that your creativity and personal decor style can inspire you to come up with other combinations.

Key elements to create successful harmony

Your interior decor will be successful thanks to a harmonious combination of wallpaper and paint, considering several elements:

Colors

Mastering colors is the foundation for a harmonious result. You can choose similar or complementary tones between the wallpaper and the paint, depending on the effect you’re aiming for. For example:

  1. Similar tones: if you choose wallpaper with gray patterns, it might be interesting to opt for a light or dark shade of gray for the paint. The overall look will remain within the same color palette, creating a peaceful and balanced ambiance.
  2. Complementary tones: if you select green wallpaper, you can play with its opposite on the color wheel, red, to achieve a strong and dynamic contrast.

In any case, avoid overly loud combinations or random mixes. Subtle shades or enhanced contrasts usually work best.

Patterns

When choosing patterned wallpaper, be mindful of the graphic elements it contains. If they are very prominent, like a floral mural, avoid choosing another pattern for the paint. To avoid overwhelming the space, it’s better to pick a paint color that’s drawn from the wallpaper itself.

Textures

The material's texture plays a significant role when combining different wall coverings. Textured or embossed wallpaper can pair beautifully with glossy, matte, or even satin paint:

  • Non-woven wallpapers add a certain depth
  • A trompe-l'œil wallpaper is ideal for enhancing the room's structure
  • Fiberglass wallpaper, on the other hand, works well to create a modern and minimalist atmosphere.

Common mistakes to avoid

Here are a few pitfalls that could negatively impact your wall decor:

  1. Overloading the space visually: choosing patterns and/or colors that are too bright can make the space feel overwhelming. Be sure to use these elements sparingly while still reflecting your tastes.
  2. Ignoring your interior style: Adapt your choice of wall coverings to the existing aesthetic and furniture, ensuring that all elements coexist harmoniously.
  3. Forgetting the function of the room: keep the room's purpose in mind when choosing appropriate coverings. For example, a child's room will need stain and impact-resistant materials, while a bathroom will require moisture-resistant, waterproof walls.

There are no limits to combining wallpaper and paint; you just need to carefully consider colors, patterns, and textures to create a harmonious decoration that reflects your personality.

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