The Little Greene collection, ‘Archive Trails’ is an anthology of trailing wallpaper motifs. These versatile wallpapers sit comfortably into both classic and contemporary settings.
We have compiled six creative wallpaper ideas for using ornithological and floral prints with coordinating paint colours. These wallpaper ideas make for an effortless yet refined interior design scheme.
If you’re still in the process of choosing your wallpaper design, read our guide to creating impact with wallpaper.
6 Creative and Unique Ways to Use Wallpaper
Add Interest with Sophisticated Framing
Rather than creating a feature wall, frame a large scale, bold print and combine with coordinating colours. Doing so will achieve a contemporary, artistic look. The muted Gustav – Trophy combines perfectly with simplistic Grey Moss framing and a neutral Linen Wash backdrop.
Wallpaper: Gustav - Trophy
Frame: Grey Moss
Wall: Linen Wash
Trim and Fireplace: Loft White
Create Cosiness and Warmth with Coordinated Trim
Wallpaper is seeing a renaissance, with people using colour and pattern to create a cosy and cocooning sanctuary. Create a sumptuous accent wall using Vine-Bleu and coordinate with trims painted in Lamp Black. Pairing a classic wallpaper design with a bold, deep colour immediately updates the room and exudes warmth.
The beauty of wallpaper is that there are so many different colours, designs and style options available. As such, there’s a design for every situation and desired atmosphere.
Learn how to use colour and pattern to create a cosy living room colour scheme.
Wallpaper: Vine - Bleu
Trim: Lamp Black
Use Contrasting Patterned Wallpaper
Use two contrasting wallpaper colourways together to create harmony within a large space. Use a neutral colour on woodwork and doors to ensure that the wallpaper remains the focal point.
“People are becoming more confident in their use of wallpaper, choosing bolder patterns and tones to add texture and depth of space to their homes. Bolder designs can be used in combination with vibrant coordinating colours or they can be pared down with complementary neutrals to suit different tastes or spaces. Using pattern in the home creates additional interest to any interior scheme.” - Ruth Mottershead, Creative Director at Little Greene
If you’re looking to make a statement in your home, explore how to use wallpaper for maximalist interior design.
Wallpaper: Paradise - Nightshade
Wallpaper: Paradise - Aquamarine
Add Pops of Colour with Bold Highlights
Accessorise with a fresh highlight of colour using a bright shade like Mister David on fixtures and furnishings. These bold colour highlights will create a focal point whilst complementing the vibrancy of the wallpaper design. Additionally, incorporating colour highlights is a simple, contemporary way to introduce colour into smaller spaces.
Bath: Mister David
Embrace Simple Colour and Pattern Combinations
Utilise classic colour combinations such as gold and white for an effective contrast. Consider complementing the delicate shimmer of Sakura – Yellow Lustre with the simplicity of Loft White. Loft White is the brightest white in the Little Greene palette. This shade is crisp and clean but without the harsh blue tinge that comes from using artificial brighteners.
Together, Sakura - Yellow Lustre and Loft White bring a touch of timeless elegance to your home.
Wallpaper: Sakura - Yellow Lustre
Floor: Loft White
Take Inspiration from the Outdoors
Fresh floral wallpapers are becoming a firm favourite, due to their versatility and appeal in contemporary and period homes. Take inspiration from natural colour combinations, exploring the delicate pastel shades found in a typical English garden. Enhance floral, pastel-coloured wallpaper by accessorising with fresh floral arrangements.
For more nature-inspired interior ideas, discover how to use green botanical wallpaper in your scheme. Or read our guide to bringing the outdoors into your home.
Wallpaper: China Rose - Blue Lustre
Now that you’ve explored the different ways to use wallpaper, browse our full collection of wallpaper designs. Or find inspiration for your interior decoration project on The Little Greene Pinterest page.