Photo: Impressions by Julie
Why You Should Consider Wallpaper for Your Ceiling (Yes, Your Ceiling!)
I recently did something I’ve been dreaming about for years: I added wallpaper to my ceiling! And while I can’t take credit for the actual installation (a shoutout to Alicia from Wonderland Wallpaper in Chapel Hill for her amazing work), I’m thrilled with how it turned out. My trayed ceiling went from a boring expanse of white to an elegant, gold-accented focal point that ties the whole room together.
If you’ve ever wondered whether wallpaper on the ceiling is a good idea, I’m here to tell you: Yes, it is! Here’s what you need to know to make it happen.
Photo: Impressions by Julie (Before)
Why Put Wallpaper on a Ceiling?
As a designer, I’ve always considered ceilings the “fifth wall” of a room – often overlooked, but so full of potential. Wallpaper on ceilings actually has historical roots; it was a popular design choice in the late 19th century before plain white ceilings became the norm. For years, I’ve wanted to bring a little of that charm back to my own space, especially in the trayed ceiling of my bedroom.
I’d considered gold foil for the ceiling at one point, but the cost and permanence held me back. I knew it would be tricky to remove when I’m ready to sell the house (not everyone loves gold as much as I do!). But when I came across the Distressed Gold Peel and Stick Wallpaper by Tempaper & Co, I knew I’d found the perfect solution. It gave me the look I wanted – luxe, warm, and timeless – without the commitment of traditional wallpaper or gold leaf.
Photo: Impressions by Julie/Wonderland Wallpaper
Can You Really Put Wallpaper on a Ceiling?
The short answer is yes, as long as your ceiling is smooth and properly prepped. I had painters touch up the trim and paint the sides of the trayed ceiling white before the wallpaper went up. With the right surface and an experienced installer (or a lot of patience if you’re a DIYer), the process can be surprisingly straightforward.
In my case, Alicia and her sister handled the installation in just 2.5 hours. They made it look easy, but watching them navigate ladders and work seamlessly together made me glad I hired professionals!
Photo: Impressions by Julie
Choosing the Right Wallpaper for a Ceiling
When picking a wallpaper for a ceiling, it’s all about balance. You want something that’s visually impactful but not overwhelming. For my bedroom, the metallic gold distressed pattern was ideal. It adds depth and a soft shimmer that complements the gold accents in the room, like my thrifted gold lamps with custom black shades and a gold-beaded throw pillow.
If you’re working with a smaller or enclosed space like a closet, you can go bold with larger patterns or brighter colors. For example, I recently helped a client choose a large floral print in blue for her closet ceiling, and it turned out beautifully – a fun surprise every time she steps inside. On the other hand, for nurseries or kids’ rooms, I’d recommend small, playful patterns that coordinate with the rest of the decor.
Photo: Impressions by Julie/Wonderland Wallpaper
Why I Chose Peel and Stick Wallpaper
One of the main reasons I opted for peel-and-stick wallpaper is its versatility. Unlike traditional wallpaper, it’s easy to remove if you change your mind or need to prepare your house for resale. I love knowing that any future homeowner could take it down without a major headache. Tempaper’s peel-and-stick options are high-quality and look just as good as the more permanent stuff.
Photo: Impressions by Julie
Pulling It All Together
The new ceiling is the crowning touch in a room full of meaningful, collected pieces. The 1950s French Provincial caned headboard, which I found at a thrift store in Durham, NC, adds a vintage charm, especially after I had it painted black and whitewashed. The gold lamps, custom shades, and textured pillow were all budget-friendly finds that now shine even brighter with the warm glow from the ceiling.
Is Wallpapering Your Ceiling Worth It?
Absolutely. Whether it’s a master bedroom, a nursery, or even a powder room, adding wallpaper to the ceiling is a surefire way to elevate the space. It’s unexpected, stylish, and incredibly satisfying to look at every day.
If you’re thinking about wallpaper for your ceiling (or any wall, really), I’d love to help. From selecting the perfect pattern to finding a skilled installer, I can guide you every step of the way. Let’s create a space that’s uniquely yours, with no stress or guesswork.
Get in touch for a consultation – I can’t wait to hear what you’re dreaming up!
Julie
