Wallpaper vs. Paint: Which One Wins in 2025?

When it comes to transforming a room, few things make as big of an impact as your wall treatment. Two of the most popular options are painting and wallpapering—but which one is right for your space? Even when wallpaper wasn’t cool, we still loved it at The-DSA. For several years, paint has ruled…but wallpaper is back—but may not be for everyone.

Let’s look at the pros and cons of each, followed by a peek at what’s trending in wallpaper design for 2025.

🎨 PAINT: The Classic Go-To
(Our Quick Tip-use paint in new ways like color drenching, painting the ceiling, and mixing finishes.)

✅ Pros:

• Budget-friendly: A can of paint is typically more affordable than wallpaper, especially for large spaces.
• Easy to apply: Most DIYers can paint a room in a day or a weekend.
• Versatile: Endless color options, and it’s easy to repaint when you’re ready for a change. (Quick Tip-Don’t pick paint color first)
• Fast refresh: Perfect for fast makeovers or staging a home.

❌ Cons:

• Flat finish: Paint doesn’t offer the texture or dimension that wallpaper can.
• Touch-ups may show: Especially with darker or high-gloss colors.
• Limited personality: While color can be expressive, it doesn’t provide the same “wow” factor as a statement wallpaper.

🖼️ WALLPAPER: Back and Bolder Than Ever
(Our Quick Tip-Even a little in the back of a bookcase, on an accent wall, or on a ceiling can pack a punch.)

✅ Pros:

• Visual impact: Patterns, textures, and prints can turn any room into a showstopper.
• Durability: High-quality wallpaper can last 10-15 years and is great for high-traffic areas.
• Personality plus: Ideal for showcasing your unique style—from bold botanicals to subtle geometrics.
• Adds depth: Textured wallpapers can mimic fabric, grass cloth, or even 3D art.

❌ Cons:

• Higher upfront cost: Materials and installation are usually more expensive than paint.
• Time-consuming: Installation can be tricky, especially for newbies.
• Difficult removal: Old school wallpaper was usually difficult to remove, but today’s newer peel-and-stick versions are easy to change out.

🌟 Wallpaper Trends in 2025: What’s Hot Right Now

Wallpaper has made a serious comeback—and in 2025, it’s more expressive than ever. Whether you’re covering all four walls or creating a striking accent, today’s options offer something for every design taste.

Here are the top wallpaper trends to watch in 2025:

1. Bold Botanicals & Tropical Prints
   Oversized leaves, flowers, and jungle themes are popular for adding an exotic, lush feel to interiors.
2. Textured Finishes
   Classic finishes and patterns like Grass cloth, linen, cork, and faux plaster wallpapers are bringing warmth and interest to a space.
3. Murals
   From dreamy landscapes to city scenes, full-wall murals are having a moment. Murals are not cheap dates but provide a lot of impact and drama.
4. Art Deco & Retro Vibes
   Add glamour with Geometric patterns highlighted with metallic accents are perfect for bedrooms, living rooms and dining areas.
5. Peel-and-Stick Revolution
   Removable wallpaper is now ultra-stylish, renter-friendly, and perfect for quick weekend transformations. But understand there are levels of quality, with some being as thin as contact paper, so check the reviews of a pattern you like.

🛍️ Where to Find the Best Wallpaper in 2025

Here are a few trusted brands and online sources leading the wallpaper revival:

• Spoonflower – Custom and artist-designed wallpapers with peel-and-stick options.
• Wallshoppe – Bold, playful patterns and collaborations with artists and influencers.
• Chasing Paper – Great for renters and trend-lovers. Known for removable wallpaper with creative, modern designs.
• Anthropologie Home – Luxe, boho-inspired wallpaper that makes a statement.
• York Wallcoverings – A legacy brand with a wide selection, including grasscloths, murals, and eco-friendly lines.

🏁 Final Thoughts

Choosing between wallpaper and paint really comes down to your personal style, budget, and how bold you’re ready to go. If you’re after a quick, affordable update—paint is your best friend. But if you’re craving drama, depth, and design-forward flair—wallpaper might just steal your heart.

And in 2025? Wallpaper is not just trendy… it’s a statement!