How to choose the right wallpaper: styles, materials, and installation tips
Long dismissed as outdated, wallpaper is making a spectacular comeback in our interiors. More than just a decorative backdrop, it has become a true storytelling tool, capable of transforming the mood of a room. Less timeless than a white wall? Think again: when chosen well, wallpaper brings depth and warmth where a neutral background might feel impersonal. With endless variations in patterns, colors, and textures, it’s now an essential ally for characterful interiors—so dear to Maison Kyka’s design philosophy.
What is wallpaper—and why should you use it in your ynterior?
The history and origins of wallpaper: from China to France
Originally from China, wallpaper takes its name from the art of depicting scenes on large sheets of paper or fabric, designed to adorn the walls of the most prestigious homes. Introduced to Britain in the 16th century, it quickly gained popularity in France the following century.
As a more affordable alternative to luxurious textile tapestries and silks, wallpaper soon became a refined French craft coveted across Europe. It was during this period that dominoterie emerged—a term referring to the design, production, and trade of dominos, printed sheets used to decorate walls, furniture, or books. The 18th century, a golden age for decorative arts, saw the rise of several influential figures, including Jean-Baptiste Réveillon, who owned the Royal Wallpaper Factory at the Folie Titon in the Faubourg Saint-Antoine—today’s 11th arrondissement of Paris.
Once considered a luxury reserved for the aristocracy, wallpaper gradually became more accessible as the Industrial Revolution reshaped society. As wallpaper factories multiplied and production costs dropped, this decorative element found its way into the homes of the bourgeoisie and, eventually, the middle class. Techniques evolved, materials changed, and naturalistic or romantic motifs gave way—by the mid-20th century—to bold geometric patterns and vibrant colours. Yet the fascination with wallpaper never truly faded.
Although it fell out of favour in the 1990s, sidelined by a minimalist and futuristic aesthetic, it has since made a striking comeback—driven by a renewed appetite for expressive and eclectic interiors. Ready to embrace wallpaper in your home with Maison Kyka?
The Different Types of Wallpaper and How to Use Them
Wallpaper actually covers a wide variety of materials, whose appearance and use can vary
Traditional wallpaper
Traditional wallpaper, or classic wallpaper, is made exclusively of printed paper. It is called “simplex” when composed of a single sheet, and “duplex” when a second, often thinner layer is added. This type of wallpaper is common but also quite delicate. It cannot be washed with water and requires special care when cleaned or dabbed. Its thin sheets make it sensitive to light, so it is recommended to use it only on low-traffic surfaces where light is moderate and humidity is absent. Bedrooms or offices are ideal rooms for this purpose.
Installation involves applying glue to the wall beforehand, which demands careful positioning as this wallpaper is not very repositionable. It is advisable to apply this wallpaper on smooth and perfectly dry surfaces to avoid any bubbling or tearing.
Non-woven wallpaper
Made from compressed polyester and cellulose fibers, then coated with a vinyl layer, non-woven wallpaper is especially appreciated for its durability and ease of maintenance. Available in various weights, it helps to even out surfaces with minor cracks and other small imperfections. Easy to use, it is applied directly onto a glued wall and does not deform while drying. Moreover, it is waterproof and washable, making it a preferred choice if you plan to install wallpaper in a humid, high-traffic room such as the kitchen. Its woven, textured appearance brings a warm atmosphere to any space in your apartment—an option to embrace without hesitation.
Non-woven wallpaper is installed “dry,” meaning the strips are not pasted—the glue is applied only to the wall. It adheres perfectly to smooth or slightly uneven surfaces, making it a practical solution for renovations. It is also easy to remove dry, without leaving any residue.
Paintable wallpaper
If your property to be renovated has damaged walls or ceilings, paintable wallpaper is an ideal solution. It not only fills in surface imperfections but also offers complete freedom in choosing the color since the paint is applied afterward. This wallpaper is usually thick, white, and easy to install. For even greater durability, fiberglass wallcovering prevents new cracks from appearing and comes in large widths, perfect for covering expansive surfaces.
Installation involves applying glue to the wall for traditional wallpaper or dry installation if the backing is non-woven. Highly opaque, it is suitable for porous, damaged, or uneven walls. Once installed, the wallpaper must be completely dry before painting.
Primer wallpaper
Increasingly less used since the rise of ready-to-hang wallpapers, primer wallpaper remains useful for preparing raw or very uneven walls. By evening out the surface, it improves the adhesion of the final covering and prevents defects from showing through. It is especially recommended before installing thin or delicate wallpaper to ensure a neat and long-lasting finish.
Vinyl wallpaper
As its name suggests, vinyl wallpaper consists of a paper backing coated with a thin layer of PVC, onto which patterns are directly printed. Available in matte or glossy finishes, it is known for its great versatility and durability, especially on walls subject to frequent use. You’ll find it in all rooms of the house as well as in specific spaces like children’s bedrooms or bathrooms. This type of wallpaper is also appreciated for its ease of cutting, installation, and removal, although hiring a professional is recommended for the best results. Julien and Stéphanie, for example, chose to cover an entire wall of their Parisian penthouse with gold vinyl wallpaper, giving a boldly retro and sculptural look—a daring yet controlled choice that reinforced the 1960s style envisioned by the owners and the Maison Kyka studio.
A textured variant, expanded vinyl wallpaper, is characterized by its relief effect created by applying heat to the PVC top layer.
Vinyl wallpaper is generally applied to a pre-glued wall, although some models come pre-pasted. Waterproof, it suits both new walls and slightly uneven surfaces. To ensure a flawless finish, it is important to smooth the strips well to avoid bubbles forming under the surface.
Metallic wallpaper
With manufacturing techniques constantly evolving, it is now possible to find sophisticated and stylish wallpapers that give your interiors a truly unique identity. This is the case, for example, with metallic wallpaper, whose metallic layer beautifully reflects light while showcasing an iridescent hue.
However, be sure to properly prepare the surface before applying this type of wallpaper, as imperfections will be even more noticeable. The glueing method depends on the wallpaper’s backing (paper or non-woven). Due to its glossy finish, metallic wallpaper requires very careful installation—often best done by a professional—to avoid visible seams or bubbles.
Flocked velvet wallpaper
Vintage style is making a notable comeback in interior design, and with it, flocked velvet wallpaper is returning to walls. An emblem of the 1970s, it is created through a technique called flocking. Glue is applied where the pattern will be, then a second layer of synthetic fibers—usually nylon or rayon—is deposited to create a raised, textured effect. Beyond its unique and bold appearance, flocked velvet wallpaper is thick and can be applied to any type of surface, even imperfect ones. However, it remains delicate and requires careful attention to withstand the test of time.
The adhesive used here must be suitable for this type of covering (special glue for heavy wallpaper). It is recommended to work with precision, as the fibers can attract dust and glue stains. Best suited for areas with low humidity and minimal wear.
Les papiers peints en fibres naturelles
In recent years, we have seen the emergence of new wall coverings, often made from natural fibers and reflecting fresh aesthetic and ethical considerations. Bamboo, cork, and rush grass have thus taken over our interiors, bringing a trendy zen touch. For example, the walls of Nicolas’s charming studio in the heart of the 6th arrondissement are covered with silk fiber wallpaper in organic tones.
These coverings generally require a specific adhesive (often with strong bonding) and meticulous installation on smooth, well-prepared walls. Some models, being rigid or textured, may require custom cutting or professional installation. Their unique finish is ideal for decorative feature walls or reception areas.
Anticipating the constraints of the surface where the wallpaper will be applied
Before installation
As you may have guessed, not all wallpapers are suitable for every surface. Beyond aesthetics, technical considerations are key to ensuring an optimal wallpaper installation. Quality wall coverings often represent a significant investment, so it is essential to measure the area to be covered accurately in order to purchase the right amount of wallpaper and minimize waste. Wallpaper typically comes in rolls to be cut or in strips. By taking into account the roll width and the vertical pattern repeat, you can precisely calculate the number of rolls needed. When renovating your property, this step is, of course, handled by the Maison Kyka team to guarantee a flawless result.
“Maison Kyka supported us throughout the search and renovation of our apartment. They handled everything from A to Z, including furnishing and finishing touches. We only experienced the best parts—without any mental load.” Marion Feuillet
A successful wallpaper installation mainly depends on proper surface preparation. It is therefore important to dry and smooth the surface, removing dust, cracks, and other imperfections as much as possible to ensure good adhesion and durability. Before hanging, mark vertical guidelines using a laser level, let the wallpaper relax for a few minutes for a perfect fit, and change the cutter blade with each strip to achieve the cleanest possible cut.
It is essential to respect the soaking time, or paste absorption time, for wallpapers that require pasting, as usually indicated by the manufacturer.
During installation
The installation of the first strip is crucial for the rest of the process. Indeed, not all wallpapers are repositionable. Only adhesive-backed models are designed to be hung, removed, and re-hung without damaging either the wall or the wallpaper. Some high-quality non-woven wallpapers also offer slight repositioning tolerance. However, traditional, vinyl, flocked velvet, or metallic wallpapers must be handled carefully from the first application, as any movement risks damaging them. Once the wallpaper strip is in place, smooth it from the center outwards to the edges to avoid bubbles.
Allow a few extra centimeters at the ceiling and baseboard. This margin will be trimmed with a cutter or smoothing tool once the wallpaper is perfectly positioned.
The quality of the installation is even more crucial with patterned wallpapers, as each strip must perfectly match the next. Otherwise, the result will be uneven, with clearly visible seams between strips.
After installation
The drying time of wallpaper varies depending on the type of covering, the adhesive used, and the room’s ambient conditions. On average, it takes between 24 and 48 hours for complete drying. Non-woven and vinyl wallpapers, which are often thicker, may take slightly longer to dry, especially if a large amount of glue is applied. During this time, it is essential to maintain a stable temperature, avoid drafts, and not overheat the room, as this could cause peeling or bubbling. Proper drying ensures long-lasting adhesion and a high-quality finish.
Wallpaper is not only valued for its aesthetic qualities but even more for its ability to quickly transform the look of a room. Its removal primarily depends on the type of wallpaper and the adhesive used during installation. Modern non-woven or vinyl wallpapers, especially repositionable ones, are generally stripped off dry and in a single strip without damaging the surface.
In contrast, traditional or older wallpapers require prior soaking. To do this, generously moisten the surface with a sponge, spray bottle, or steam stripper, focusing on the seams. Once the glue has softened, carefully peel off the wallpaper using a spatula. If resistance persists, a second application of warm water mixed with a bit of white vinegar or wallpaper stripper may be necessary.
A thoroughly cleaned wall after this step is essential to ensure good adhesion of the new covering.
Create a unique style with wallpaper
Maison Kyka embraces a passionate and exacting vision of interior design, which is especially reflected in the choice of materials during its renovations. Wallpaper is no exception: the richness of its patterns and the sensory dimension it brings to a room perfectly align with our architecture studio’s philosophy. Its one guiding principle: dare to be bold.
Bring color and texture into your interior
Wallpaper helps bring color into an interior, which is essential for personalizing a space and creating a harmonious atmosphere. For example, warm tones like terracotta or mustard encourage a cozy and welcoming vibe, while cooler shades such as blue or gray bring calmness and serenity.
Each wallpaper roll has a batch number. Make sure that the rolls intended for the same wall share the exact same batch number to avoid slight color variations between the strips.
Beyond the color palette, the texture of wallpaper plays a crucial role by adding depth and dynamism to walls, preventing the monotony of a flat surface—like at Emmanuelle’s, where each room finds its identity through bold wall decoration. Textured wallpapers such as flocked velvet, embossed vinyl, or woven natural fibers create a tactile depth that invites touch and subtly captures light, thus shaping the room’s ambiance.
The combination of colors and textures can also visually structure a space by highlighting an accent wall or defining specific areas without physical partitions. Finally, wallpaper can influence the perception of volume: vertical patterns visually elongate a room, while larger or panoramic designs enlarge a space, creating a sense of escape.
While jungle-themed panoramic wallpapers have long been in the spotlight, Maison Kyka is now leaning towards reissues of vintage wallpapers or trellis patterns. This approach brings a more poetic and evocative touch to the space, inspired by the delicate refinement of the 18th century. This ambiance is found at Emmanuelle’s, where the ceiling of the second-floor landing is adorned with botanical wallpaper that echoes the nearby garden.
Wallpaper: one covering, endless possibilities
Wallpaper offers countless possibilities to shape the atmosphere of an interior. It can be used as targeted accents—behind a headboard or in a hallway—to create a subtle and elegant focal point. Conversely, applied as a full covering, it gives a room a theatrical and immersive dimension, enhancing the space’s identity and grandeur.
Beyond walls, wallpaper can also dress furniture or architectural elements, adding an original aesthetic continuity. For perfect harmony, wallpaper can be paired with upholstery fabric featuring coordinated patterns or textures, creating a refined dialogue between wall surfaces and furnishings.
Finally, decorative borders or personalized alcove designs are techniques that enrich the décor while playing with volume and depth.
Masters in their field, certain French brands are regularly chosen by Maison Kyka to support their clients’ renovations. Among them, Pierre Frey, Nobilis, and Casamance stand out for their expertise, enabling the creation of exceptional environments.
Whether you’ve decided to cover all your walls with wallpaper or are still considering it, the Maison Kyka team is here to guide you through your renovation project in Paris and the Île-de-France region.