Think Beyond the Wall
Wallpaper is no longer confined to just the four main walls of a room. Designers and homeowners alike are using wallpaper in unexpected places to add character, charm, and creativity to overlooked surfaces. From bold stair risers to hidden closet interiors, these clever applications show how wallpaper can transform the ordinary into something truly memorable.
In this article, we’ll explore unique ways to use wallpaper on doors, stairs, closets, and more, with styling tips and design ideas to spark your imagination.
Wallpapered Doors: Make an Entrance (or Exit)
Covering a door with wallpaper can turn a functional surface into a design moment. Whether you want to camouflage a door to blend with the wall or make it a bold statement, this trick adds instant personality. Look at our Geo Effect Collection.
Ideas to Try:
- Use the same wallpaper on the door and the adjacent wall for a seamless look
- Frame the door in contrasting trim for extra emphasis
- Choose bold geometrics or botanicals to turn the door into artwork
Perfect For: Bedroom doors, pantry doors, laundry room entrances
Stair Risers: Small Space, Big Impact
Stair risers are an underused design opportunity—and wallpaper can bring them to life with pattern and color. Because they’re a compact surface, you can go bold without overwhelming the space. Check our Dream Catcher Collection to find your prefect wallcovering.
Ideas to Try:
- Use coordinating patterns on each riser for a patchwork effect
- Apply a single repeating design for cohesion
- Go tropical, floral, or geometric depending on your home’s theme
Perfect For: Entryway stairs, basement stairs, or staircase feature walls
Closet Interiors: A Hidden Delight
Open a closet door and surprise yourself with wallpaper that adds color, depth, or whimsy. It’s a simple upgrade that makes even a utilitarian space feel special. See Roberto Cavalli N8 Collection.
Ideas to Try:
- Line the back wall of a wardrobe or linen closet
- Use soft florals or vintage prints in bedroom closets
- Add metallic or patterned wallpaper in a hallway coat closet
Perfect For: Bedroom closets, coat closets, walk-ins, and built-ins
More Unexpected Places to Try Wallpaper
Ceilings
Turn your ceiling into a fifth wall with wallpaper. Especially effective in powder rooms, bedrooms, or dining spaces, it adds surprise and drama above.
Furniture Accents
Wallpaper can breathe new life into furniture. Try applying it to the back of a bookshelf, drawer fronts, or even tabletops for a unique touch.
Room Dividers & Screens
Freestanding panels or folding screens can be customized with wallpaper for a movable art piece.
Tips for Applying Wallpaper in Small Spaces
- Use peel-and-stick options for easy experimentation
- Opt for bold patterns in small doses
- Always clean and prep surfaces thoroughly
- Finish edges with trim or clear adhesive for a polished look
Conclusion: Pattern Where You Least Expect It
Wallpaper isn’t just for walls—it’s for anywhere your imagination leads. Whether you cover your stair risers in florals or line your closet in geometric chic, unexpected wallpaper placement can make every part of your home feel thoughtful and creative.
Looking to try it? Browse our collections for patterns perfect for doors, stairs, and all the delightful details in between.
