Wallpaper Makes a Stylish Comeback

CHICAGO – Wallpaper is making a comeback. Once viewed as outdated and a hassle to remove, wallpaper nowadays comes in new materials and modern patterns that are winning over fans once again. The key? Don’t overdo it. Moderation is key, especially when selling a home.

Does wallpaper help sell a house — or distract?

Certainly, some buyers may have negative impressions about wallpaper, especially if it is in multiple areas throughout the home or feels like it’s in an outdated pattern. Those who’ve spent countless hours removing old wallpaper in the past may be unlikely to appreciate it, even in its new form.

However, wallpaper used on a single accent wall or in just one room, such as a guest bathroom, might be something buyers can overlook — and dare we say, even appreciate.

A survey conducted by Talker Research, commissioned by Realty ONE Group, found that nearly one-third of twenty-somethings love wallpaper in a home. Twenty-three percent favor nautical or beach-themed wallpaper prints, while another 21% favor wallpaper with a boho vibe.

Knowing which prints will stand the test of time—and which will have buyers asking for a decorating allowance—can mean the difference between selling a listing quickly and seeing it linger on the market for several months.

5 wallpaper trends to consider

1. Textured neutral

Textured walls are reminiscent of plaster walls of the early 1900s. Adding textured wallpaper in a soft taupe or eggshell can hint at the house’s charm, particularly if the home has a vintage flair.

2. Complementary colors

Wallpaper choices should complement other elements in the space, like the furnishings. For example, blue stripes on an accent wall draw the eye and can mesh well with a luxurious gold sofa, offering the space an elegant appeal.

3. Small-scale patterns

The wrong wallpaper used in spaces like entryways, laundry rooms and half baths can feel cluttered. Smaller-scale patterns may be less off-putting. But carefully assess the print from a distance to ensure the pattern isn’t too busy or that the print isn’t so small that it gets lost from across the room.

4. Nature-inspired prints

Nature-themed décor has made a resurgence in recent years. The calming reassurance of a forest scene or flora and fauna prints may remind buyers of simpler pleasures. In an urban setting, nature-inspired elements can help people escape the hustle and bustle of city-living. Pair nature-inspired prints with live plants for an added natural touch.

5. Deep, rich colors

Tapping into the emotional power of deep, rich colors like mahogany, red, orange and yellow can add excitement to a space. These hues work particularly well in the social areas of a home, like a kitchen or living room.

Yes, you can overdo it with wallpaper

You might love the look of a beautiful wallpaper mural in a home’s entryway, but buyers may have mixed reactions. Plaid prints and wallpapered ceilings are popular in 2025 design but may not translate well when selling a home.

Regardless, if someone loves a home, they’ll buy it with wallpaper — or not. However, if their choice has come down to two houses, they may be more likely to forgo the home they view as needing extra renovations to get rid of something they despise.

Real estate professionals may be finding they’re having tough conversations with more clients about their wallpaper choices. But when selected carefully and strategically, wallpaper could be a home’s asset and a valuable staging tool to make a space more memorable. There is a fine line of overdoing it — sellers should balance the trend by choosing wallpaper that makes you awe, not gasp.

© 2025 National Association of Realtors® (NAR)