How to Pair Wallpaper and Paint

Wallpaper and paint are two of the most powerful tools for transforming the look and feel of a space. When skillfully paired, they can create a stunning visual experience that will leave you and your guests in awe. At Budget Blinds of Scottsdale and Fountain Hills, we not only offer a wide selection of high-quality window treatments, hardware, drapes, and rugs, but we also provide guidance on how to create the perfect harmony between them.

In this blog, we will delve into color theory, explore the art of pairing complementary shades from the same shared color wheel, and offer practical tips on choosing the right furniture, rugs, and drapes to create a cohesive and stylish space.

But First: Color Theory
Color theory is the foundation of any successful interior design project. It is a set of principles that guide the use of colors to create harmony and balance in a space. The color wheel, a visual representation of colors arranged in a circular format, is a vital tool in understanding color relationships. Primary colors (red, blue, and yellow) are the building blocks from which all other colors are derived.

Mixing primary colors creates secondary colors (green, orange, and purple), and further blending results in tertiary colors. To create a harmonious color scheme, it's essential to consider the relationships between these colors on the color wheel.

Pairing Complementary Colors
When pairing wallpaper and paint, one effective approach is to choose complementary shades from the same shared color wheel. Complementary colors are those that sit opposite each other on the color wheel, such as blue and orange or red and green. These color combinations create a vibrant, contrasting effect that adds visual interest and energy to your space. For a more subtle and sophisticated look, you can opt for analogous colors, which are those located next to each other on the color wheel. This approach creates a more calming atmosphere by using colors that share similar undertones.

Letting Your Focal Wallpaper Pop
Focal wallpapers are designed to create a statement and draw attention to a specific area of your room. To prevent the space from becoming visually overwhelming, it's crucial to choose neutral paint colors that allow the wallpaper to take center stage. Neutral paint colors, such as whites, grays, and beiges, create a subtle backdrop that accentuates the bold patterns and colors of your focal wallpaper.

Pairing Accent Wallpaper to Paint Color
Sometimes neutrals just don’t feel great in the space, or maybe bright colors are on the menu. When selecting a paint color to complement your focal wallpaper, it's essential to choose a shade that supports the dominant color in the wallpaper. This approach creates a cohesive and balanced design that helps tie the room together. For instance, if your wallpaper features a bold blue pattern, consider painting the remaining walls in a soft shade of blue or neutral color with cool undertones.

The Relationship Between Decor
To create a truly cohesive space, it's important to consider the relationship between your wallpaper, paint, furniture, and decor. Choose furniture pieces that incorporate the focal color of your wallpaper, either as the primary color or as an accent. This will help to create a seamless flow throughout your space and ensure that all elements work together harmoniously. This same principle should be considered when it comes to art, decor, and other accent pieces like drapes and rugs.

Choosing the Right Rug
A rug can be the most important decision you make in a room and can be the perfect finishing touch to your interior design. A rug is a tether between your wallpaper and paint choices, too. When selecting a rug, consider its color, pattern, and texture. Is the space high traffic? Take the time to research which fabrics will hold up to the job. Once the appropriate fabric has been determined, move into color selections. Choose a rug that complements the colors in both your wallpaper and paint without overpowering either element. Additionally, consider the rug's texture to add visual interest and depth to your space.

Selecting Drapes
Custom drapes play a significant role in defining the overall aesthetic of a room— adding softness, warmth, and dimension. When selecting drapes to complement your wallpaper and paint choices, consider their position within the color wheel. 

To create a design-forward look, opt for drapes in a shade or pattern that won’t steal the show from your wallpaper or paint colors. You can choose drapes in the same color family as your walls or wallpaper, or in a contrasting but complementary hue, depending on the desired effect. For instance, if your walls are painted in a soft blue shade, and your wallpaper features a bold blue pattern, you could choose custom drapery in a coordinating shade of blue or even a contrasting color like orange for a more dynamic look.

When selecting drapes, also consider their pattern and texture. A subtle pattern or texture can make your space interesting without clashing with the wallpaper or paint. Keep in mind that if your wallpaper features a bold pattern, it's best to opt for solid-colored or minimally patterned drapes to avoid overwhelming the room.

We Can Help
Pairing wallpaper and paint can be an exciting and rewarding process when approached with the right knowledge and tools. Understanding color theory helps, and so does considering the color wheel. But if you are not a designer and colors don’t speak to you, that is okay too. If you want to learn more on your own, click here.

And if you are interested in our custom window treatments, hardware, or rugs, we are here to help. Our decor, shades, blinds, and drapes come in many different colors, patterns, and styles. At Budget Blinds of Scottsdale and Fountain Hills, we offer expert advice and a wide range of high-quality products to bring your vision to life. From window treatments to rugs, we’ve got your back every step of the way. Give us a call today for a free consultation!