I know what you’re thinking — wallpaper in a kitchen? But hear me out. It can add soul, drama, or subtle softness where you least expect it. Let’s explore how (and where) wallpaper really works in a kitchen.
For years, wallpaper has had a bit of a reputation for being reserved for bedrooms, powder rooms, and the occasional statement wall in the hallway. But kitchens? Not so much. Perhaps it’s the fear of splashes and spills, or a leftover association with those ‘80s borders and overly floral designs. But lately, wallpaper has been making a quiet (and stylish) comeback in the kitchen, and it’s easy to see why.
A Perfect Match for the Minimalist Kitchen
Let’s be honest—slab door kitchens, while sleek and modern, can sometimes feel a little flat. Don’t get me wrong, I love a handleless, fuss-free aesthetic (it’s timeless for a reason), but every now and then, they need a little something to break up all those clean lines and uniform tones. That’s where wallpaper steps in.
Whether it’s a barely-there linen texture in a whisper of grey or an inky blue botanical print, wallpaper introduces movement, texture, and warmth. It helps soften the geometry of cabinetry and brings personality to a space that can otherwise risk feeling a bit clinical.
I often suggest wallpaper as a design moment in slab door kitchens—it’s that layer of interest that makes the space feel curated rather than just ‘fitted.’
Where to Use It
One of the biggest misconceptions about kitchen wallpaper is that it has to go behind the hob or sink—and naturally, that sends people running for the wipe-clean tiles. But in reality, you don’t have to (and probably shouldn’t) wallpaper your entire kitchen. Think about it more like an accessory, or a tailored detail.
Here are a few of my favourite places to introduce it:
● Dining nooks – Have a small space with a table and chairs just off your kitchen? A subtle pattern can visually define the area and create that soft transition from functional space to sociable one.
● Alcoves and open shelving – Got a recessed space or built-in shelves? Lining the back wall in a bold wallpaper turns a storage moment into a design one.
● Pantry cupboards – For a secret surprise, wallpaper the inside of a pantry or larder cupboard. Every time you reach for a tin of tomatoes, you’ll smile.
● Up high, out of splash zone – Wallpapering the upper third of your kitchen wall—especially if it’s above panelling or a tiled splashback—can create a cosy, wrapped-in feel.
Subtle vs. Bold
Not every wallpaper has to shout. In fact, some of the most successful kitchen wallpaper looks I’ve seen are the whisper-soft, just-textured types that make the room feel like it’s exhaling. Think pale neutral linen effects, tonal stripes, or small-scale patterns in chalky shades.
That said, if you’ve got the confidence—or the right wall—go bold. A strong geometric print or deep floral wallpaper behind a breakfast bar can become the entire focal point of the room. Pair it with simple cabinetry and neutral worktops and let the pattern sing.
Wallpaper also plays beautifully with colour. A soft sage green kitchen with a dusky botanical wallpaper? Heaven. Or a navy scheme with a golden ochre palm print to add a bit of drama? Yes please.
And can we talk about metallics in wallpaper? A subtle shimmer or raised texture can really elevate a kitchen and pick up on brass hardware or a statement light fixture without it feeling overdone.
Practical Tips
Yes, wallpaper in a kitchen can be practical—it just takes a bit of planning.
● Placement is everything – Avoid areas directly behind hobs or sinks unless it’s a vinyl or specifically designed-for-kitchens paper.
● Ventilation matters – Good airflow keeps humidity down, which helps protect your wallpaper and your finishes.
● Choose the right finish – There are lots of kitchen-suitable wallpapers now: vinyls, washable finishes, and even ones with a slight protective coating. Don’t be afraid to ask your supplier what’s best for your space.
Also, never underestimate the power of wallpaper in helping disguise awkward architecture or uneven walls. Where paint might highlight imperfections, a textured wallpaper can create a smooth, uniform look.
The Feel-Good Factor
Wallpaper adds more than pattern—it adds a feeling. A room that feels wrapped in wallpaper is one that feels finished, thought-through, and somehow… cosier. There’s something about pattern and texture on the walls that makes a kitchen feel more like part of the home, not just a place to cook.
And while I love clean design, I also believe kitchens should feel personal. Wallpaper lets you express your style, whether that’s whimsical and floral, Scandi and minimal, or nostalgic and vintage.
My Inspo Tips
● A tone-on-tone trellis pattern in taupe can add depth without overwhelming a cream-toned kitchen.
● A hand-drawn lemon print on one wall pairs beautifully with pale wood cabinetry and warm brass fixtures—spring on a wall.
● If you’ve gone all out on a coloured kitchen, like cornflower blue or butter yellow, choose a wallpaper with a soft contrasting tone—like a faded blush or a pale moss—to avoid too much matchy-matchy.
When a space feels like it needs a little extra lift—or a dash of personality—I love using wallpaper in my designs. Whether it’s lining the back of a cupboard or bringing a feature wall to life, it’s one of my favourite ways to turn a kitchen into a space you truly want to be in.
So, wallpaper in a kitchen? Still with me? It might not be for everyone, but for those looking to inject a bit more soul, character, and warmth into their space—it could be the missing piece.