Updating A Dining Room with Wallpaper

Updating a dining room with wallpaper is a simple yet impactful way to add personality, texture, and charm to your space. Whether you want a bold statement or a subtle touch, the right wallpaper can completely transform the look and feel of your dining area.

A dining room with a long table set for a meal. The table has blue and white plates, clear wine glasses, blue glass tumblers, and a floral centerpiece. A chandelier hangs above. The room has blue wallpaper and shelves with white dishes.

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Do you welcome change, or do you prefer to stick with what you know? Personally, I love change—it keeps things fresh and exciting! With wallpaper making a big comeback, I decided now was the perfect time to give it a try.

Updating our dining room with wallpaper was the perfect way to refresh our space and bring in more personality. I wanted something that would add depth and character without overwhelming the room, so I carefully chose a design that complemented our existing decor while making a bold statement.

The result? A dining room that feels stylish, inviting, and completely transformed!

If you’ve ever thought about updating your dining room (or any room in your home) with wallpaper, then today’s post is perfect for you!

Join me as I walk you through the steps I took to design my ideal dining room using traditional wallpaper.

Updating a Dining Room with Wallpaper in Our Historic Home

I love our traditional, historic home, but I couldn’t look at my plain white walls any longer—they just felt so dull and lifeless! I wanted my dining room to have more personality, reflecting my style. That’s when I turned to wallpaper.

It was the perfect way to bring in color, pattern, and a new vibe. And let me tell you, the transformation was exactly what I needed!

But before we get into the transformation, let me take you back to where it all began. In fact, I’ll share a few versions of how this room has evolved over time.

A cozy dining room with a white square table surrounded by striped cushioned chairs. A decorative chandelier hangs above. The room features wooden floors, a blue rug, a corner cabinet with dishes, and a landscape painting on the wall. — 1995

A cozy dining room with a wooden table and six rustic chairs on a patterned rug. A black chandelier hangs above. The back wall has a decorative mirror, a sideboard with lamps, and various decorative objects. A door with glass panels is visible. — 2000- 2003

Looking at the first image, I can’t help but cringe—what was I thinking? But seeing the progress makes me appreciate just how far this space has come, and I couldn’t be more thrilled with the dining room I have today!

Have you ever made any mistakes like this? I was sick of the Robin ‘s egg blue and unsure what I wanted, so I painted everything white! I mean everything!

Which brings us to today and my dream of updating our blah and boring dining room into something more eye catching with some beautiful and traditional style wallpaper.

Choosing the Right Elegant Dining Room Wallpaper

Wallpaper can completely transform a dining room by adding style, depth, and character. Depending on the design, it enhances the ambiance, making the space feel cozy and intimate or bright and airy.

Wallpaper is a small change that can define an open-concept home’s dining area, create a stunning focal point, and introduce texture for a more layered look. It’s a quick and impactful way to refresh your space without a significant renovation.

Selecting the right wallpaper involves several key factors to ensure it enhances your space beautifully.

I wanted my dining room to flow naturally into my butler’s pantry, which has the prettiest blue-grey cabinets. At the same time, I wanted something traditional but with a bold and playful touch. I wanted it to feel like me and blend seamlessly with the rest of our home. The trick was finding the right wallpaper that had just the right mix of classic style and personality. I knew the right pattern would pull everything together and make the space feel intentional while still feeling fun and inviting.

Here are some things to consider when choosing wallpaper to update your dining room.

Types of Wallpaper: The Difference Between Pasted, Non-Pasted, and Peel-and-Stick

When choosing wallpaper, it’s essential to understand the differences between pasted, non-pasted, and peel-and-stick options, as each type has its application process and benefits. Consider using removable wallpaper if you’re unsure about long-term commitment.

This is the gorgeous William Morris paper I hung in my dining room.

Updating a dining room with wallpaper featuring a detailed floral tapestry design can transform the space. This pattern boasts white and light brown flowers, intricate blue leaves, and vines on a muted teal background, exuding a vintage, ornate style that repeats symmetrically. — Honeysuckle and Tulip Wallpaper by William Morris

Pasted room Wallpaper (Pre-Pasted) is an excellent choice

Comes with an adhesive backing that activates when soaked in water.
Easier to apply than traditional non-pasted wallpaper since it doesn’t require separate glue.
Ideal for DIYers who want a more straightforward installation process.
It can be removed with water and a scraper, but it may take some effort.

Non-Pasted Wallpaper

A separate wallpaper adhesive must be applied to the back before hanging.
Offers a more durable, long-lasting hold compared to pre-pasted wallpaper.
Ideal for high-traffic areas or rooms where you want wallpaper to stay put for years.
Removal can be more complex and may require steaming or wallpaper removal.

Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper

Has a self-adhesive backing, similar to a giant sticker—peel and apply.
Easiest to install and remove, making it perfect for renters or temporary updates.
Best for smooth, clean surfaces; may not adhere well to textured walls.
Can be repositioned during installation, but some types may lose stickiness if removed and reapplied too many times.

Choose a Color Scheme

Open paint cans in shades of blue, green, and neutral tones are spread out on a surface. Color swatches and fabric samples surround them, suggesting an updating project. Could it be new wallpaper or a refreshed dining room design?.

When selecting a color scheme for your dining room wallpaper, think about the mood you want to create. Blue tones bring a sense of calm and sophistication, making them a great choice for a relaxed yet elegant dining space. If you prefer a bold and dramatic look, black wallpaper can add depth and luxury, especially when paired with metallic accents or rich textures.

For a fresh and natural feel, green wallpaper can introduce an organic, serene vibe, perfect for bringing the outdoors in. Whether you choose deep navy, classic black, or soft sage, your color choice should complement your furniture and decor for a cohesive look.

Choose Your Style

When choosing wallpaper that fits your formal dining room style, consider the overall aesthetic of your dining space. Modern dining room wallpaper often features sleek designs, geometric patterns, or subtle textures in neutral tones, creating a clean and sophisticated look.

If you prefer a traditional dining room wallpaper, opt for classic damask, floral patterns, or striped patterns in warm, rich colors that evoke timeless elegance. For those who love a retro feel, mid-century wallpaper designs with bold prints, earthy hues, and vintage-inspired prints can bring character and charm to the space. Selecting wallpaper that aligns with your decor ensures a cohesive and stylish dining room.

A room with a blue damask patterned wallpaper features a plush blue sofa adorned with pillows, while a side table holds vases with flowers. The light wood floor complements the space, and natural light streams through a window on the left, creating an inviting atmosphere. — Damask Paper from Lelands Paper

A bright room with large windows features a white bench adorned with blue and beige cushions, all under the charm of patterned blue wallpaper. Decorative white vases sit on a shelf beside the large blue door. Two hanging lanterns light up this elegant space, perfect for a dining room update. — Modern Paper from Burke Decor

Consider Texture and Finish

Grasscloth wallpaper adds warmth and dimension, while smooth finishes provide a sleek, modern feel in dining rooms. You’ll also want to choose between vinyl and non-vinyl options—vinyl wallpapers are durable and easy to clean, making them ideal for high-traffic areas ( breakfast nook or kids rooms ), while non-vinyl papers, such as traditional or fabric-backed options, offer a more luxurious, natural look.

A hand with a paint roller applies blue paint over a textured, decorative white wall, updating the ornate and embossed pattern of intricate swirls and floral designs. A refreshing change transforms the space, perfect for a sophisticated dining room. — WALLPAPERSTOGO.COM

A bedroom showcases a white bedside table with books, a clock, and vases holding cotton stems. A bed dressed with a teal blanket and decorative pillows rests against textured teal wallpaper. A hot beverage sits on a knit blanket, offering a cozy touch to the updated space. — GRASSCLOTH FROM POTTERY BARN

Other Room Wallpaper Ideas

Another option is mural wallpaper, which can create a striking focal point. Whether it’s a scenic landscape, an abstract design, or a vintage-inspired motif, murals add depth and personality, making the dining room feel more immersive and unique. Finally, decide whether to cover all the walls for a cohesive look or create a dining room wallpaper accent wall to highlight a specific area, such as below a chair rail. This approach adds visual interest without overwhelming the space, allowing you to experiment with bold patterns or colors. These details will help you select the perfect wallpaper to transform your dining room into a stylish and inviting space.

A woman stands smiling in front of a large, textured landscape painting on a dark-paneled dining room wall. She holds a rolled section of wallpaper that matches the painting's scenery, perfectly updating the aesthetic. A light switch is visible on the wall. — Blesserhouse

Tip from wendy’s craft room:

Don’t hesitate to step out of the box and try something bold. You might love it!

Consider Your Lighting

Natural light and artificial light can affect how wallpaper colors appear. You can test samples at different times of the day to see how they look in your space.

Tip from wendy:

Always test wallpaper samples and paint on several different walls to get a real feel for the color and pattern in your space.

Balance the Wallpaper with Your Furniture

Consider a more subtle wallpaper to balance the look if your dining table and chairs have ornate or bold designs.

A dining room with a wooden table and eight upholstered chairs. The walls are decorated with floral wallpaper and framed art. A chandelier hangs from the ceiling. A bookshelf with decorative items stands in the background. A light rug covers the floor.

But if your furniture is simple, like mine, a statement wallpaper is the perfect way to add character and make the space stand out.

Tip from wendy:

Don’t be afraid to mix and match patterns! I paired a neutral rug with a subtle design and added a fun animal print on my chairs to complement the wallpaper beautifully.

Think of Your Ceiling as a Fifth Wall

Don’t overlook the ceiling! Adding wallpaper up top can bring unexpected charm and tie the space together.

A cozy dining room with a wooden table and six wicker chairs on a light rug. The walls, updated with blue floral wallpaper, are adorned with framed art. A dark chandelier hangs from the blue ceiling, while a window with white curtains brings in light.

Or, for a softer touch, try painting it a complementary color like I did—it’s a simple way to create a cohesive, polished look.

Preparing Your Walls for Wallpaper

Properly preparing your walls before applying wallpaper ensures a smooth, long-lasting finish. Follow these steps to get your walls ready:

Clear the Space – Remove furniture or move it away from the walls. Take down any artwork, outlet covers, and switch plates.
Remove Old Wallpaper (If Needed) – If your walls already have wallpaper, strip it off using a wallpaper steamer or a mixture of warm water and wallpaper remover. Peel or scrape away any remaining pieces.
Clean the Walls – Wash the walls with a mild detergent and warm water to remove dust, dirt, or grease. Let them dry completely before proceeding.
Repair Any Imperfections – Fill holes, cracks, or dents with spackle or joint compound. Once dry, smooth the surface to create an even base for the wallpaper.
Sand and Smooth the Walls – Lightly sand glossy or textured walls to help the wallpaper adhere better. Wipe away any dust with a damp cloth.
Prime the Walls – Applying a wallpaper primer (or sizing solution) helps the wallpaper stick evenly and makes future removal easier. This step is especially important for porous surfaces like drywall.
Measure and Mark Guidelines – Use a level and pencil to draw straight vertical lines where the wallpaper panels will be placed. This ensures the first strip is applied correctly, preventing misalignment.

How to Wallpaper a Dining Room

For Pre-Pasted Wallpaper:

Soak the wallpaper in water according to the instructions.
Let the adhesive activate for the recommended time, then gently fold the paper (booking) and wait a few minutes before applying.

Peel off the backing a few inches at a time while applying the wallpaper to the wall.
Smooth out bubbles as you go with a squeegee or soft cloth.

For Non-Pasted Wallpaper:

Apply wallpaper paste evenly to the back of the wallpaper using a brush or roller.
Let the paste sit briefly before placing the wallpaper on the wall.

A hand uses a large brush on a flat, white surface, possibly preparing or cleaning the area. Light and shadow create patterns across the surface. A roll of paper is visible in the background.

Hang the Wallpaper

Start at a straight edge (such as a corner or door frame) and align the first panel carefully.
Press the wallpaper onto the wall, smoothing it out from the center toward the edges to remove air bubbles.
Continue applying additional panels, matching the pattern as needed.

Trim and Finish

Use a sharp utility knife to trim excess wallpaper at the ceiling and baseboard.
Wipe away any excess paste with a damp sponge.
Let the wallpaper fully dry before placing furniture back in the room.

With the proper preparation and careful application, your wallpaper will transform your dining room beautifully!

For Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper:

Coordinate the Room: Paint Your Trim and Ceiling

Paint the trim and doors in a color that complements your wallpaper for a cohesive look. Consider painting the ceiling a bold shade for added drama, as I did. This was one of my favorite design choices, bringing warmth and a striking impact to the room. Be sure to test the paint samples before proceeding as they will always look different on the way vs. on a paint chip.

A room features a wooden sideboard with decorative circular patterns, topped with two lamps. Above it hangs an ornate mirror. The walls are adorned with floral-patterned wallpaper in blue and white tones. The floor is wooden, and a chandelier is partially visible.

Elegant dining room with a wooden table and six upholstered chairs. A large floral arrangement in an orange vase is the centerpiece. Blue floral wallpaper decorates the room, complemented by a chandelier and a sideboard with lamps and decor items.

I have a little confession to make—I was set on white trim and originally thought a white ceiling was the way to go. But once the wallpaper was up, I had a change of heart! It just wasn’t giving me the bold look I envisioned.

So, I made a last-minute switch, and painting the ceiling blue was exactly what the space needed. Just remember, it’s never too late to change your mind!

How to Update a Dining Room with Styling Tips

Once your wallpaper is up, the next step is seamlessly blending it with your interior design and existing decor. Balance the room with neutral furniture and subtle accents.

A dining room with a wooden table and eight upholstered chairs. The room features floral wallpaper and a glass cabinet filled with tea sets. A white rug lies beneath the table, and shelves with decorations are in the background.

On the other hand, if you’ve chosen a more understated wallpaper, you can introduce pops of color through wall art, decorative accessories, or an eye-catching centerpiece. Updating a dining room table with a fresh coat of paint or new chairs that match the wallpaper’s aesthetic can also enhance the overall look.

Add Lighting and Accessories

To further enhance your modern dining room decor, incorporate other design elements that tie the space together. A stylish rug can help define the dining area and provide contrast against the wallpaper. At the same time, statement lighting fixtures, such as a chandelier or pendant lights, can add elegance and sophistication.

A vintage-style chandelier with eight arms and small lampshades hangs elegantly from the ceiling, adding charm to a dining room being updated with ornate floral wallpaper in blue and white. A decorative mirror peeks through, enhancing the classic ambiance.

I used my same light fixture as it was my grandmother’s, but added shades to update it.

Layering different textures, like a sleek dining table paired with upholstered chairs or woven accents, creates a well-balanced and inviting atmosphere. A carefully curated collection of accessories—such as vases, candles, decorative pillows —can bring personality to the space without overwhelming the wallpaper’s design.

Adding Wall Art

Finally, don’t forget to incorporate wall art that complements your wallpaper without clashing. Opt for simple framed prints or mirrors to create visual balance if your wallpaper has a busy pattern.

A wooden cabinet with glass doors showcases white porcelain dishes. The room, updated with floral-patterned blue wallpaper, features framed bird illustrations and a dining table elegantly set with plates and glasses.

A table with a white swan-shaped ornament, a vase of white and purple flowers, and a white ceramic dish with a lid. Behind is a framed painting of a woman, set against floral-patterned wallpaper.

For a more minimal wallpaper design, bold artwork can be a stunning focal point. Whether embracing a classic, eclectic, or modern dining room decor style, these thoughtful styling choices will enhance your wallpaper and create a beautifully curated dining space.

How to Care for Wallpaper

Caring for your wallpaper depends on the material, with vinyl and non-vinyl options requiring different maintenance approaches. Vinyl wallpaper is the most durable and straightforward way to clean, ideal for high-traffic areas like dining rooms. To maintain it, wipe it down with a damp cloth and mild soap to remove dust, stains, or grease.

Avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the finish. Non-vinyl wallpaper, such as fabric, grasscloth, or traditional paper-based options, is more delicate and should be dusted regularly with a soft brush or microfiber cloth. Never scrub, as excess moisture can cause damage. Regardless of the type, keeping wallpaper away from direct moisture and regularly maintaining it will help preserve its beauty for years.

Wrapping Up

Updating your dining room with wallpaper is a great way to transform the entire room and give a modern twist to your space.. Whether you choose a blue dining room for a serene and sophisticated feel like I did, embrace a bold pattern for a striking statement, or incorporate traditional elements for timeless charm, the best wallpaper can completely redefine the space.

As a room of the house where family and friends gather, your dining area should reflect your style while remaining warm and inviting. With thoughtful color choices, well-balanced decor, and proper care, your wallpaper will enhance your dining room or living room for years to come.

An updated dining room features a floral-patterned blue wallpaper and a set dining table. The table boasts a floral centerpiece, glassware, and porcelain dishes. Above, a chandelier illuminates the scene, with a cabinet full of pottery in the background.

More about me!

Hello, I’m Wendy – a dedicated homemaker with a deep passion for decorating, gardening, cooking, and crafting. I find joy in harmonizing beautiful elements to fashion a space that is both comfortable and inspiring. I will help you create a beautiful home, one project at a time.

Updating A Dining Room with Wallpaper

Updating a Dining Room with Wallpaper in Our Historic Home

Choosing the Right Elegant Dining Room Wallpaper