Hello Monochrome Wallpaper – 2020 Wallcovering Trends

I’m ecstatic today! Why? Because I received an email saying, “You’ve been featured on Houzz in Russia!” Honestly, it should’ve said, “You’ve been featured on Houzz again,” but who’s counting?! Not only were we featured, but I also love the topic:

“Reception: Monochrome Wallpaper – When to Use Them, When Not, Explained by a Practicing Designer.”

Thanks to Houzz editor Tatyana Artemyeva for including my work. In this post, I’ll dive into what monochrome wallcoverings (aka wallpaper) are and why they can make such a strong statement in your home.

📢 ALERT: If you’re in the USA, don’t worry — the Houzz article is in Russian, but you can easily translate it in your browser.

What Is Monochrome Wallpaper?

According to Oxford Dictionary, “monochrome” means an image in black and white or varying tones of a single color. In the world of 2020 wallcovering trends, designers like myself love using monochrome wallpaper to give rooms depth and visual intrigue.

Why I Used Monochrome Wallpaper in My Powder Room

For my powder room, I chose a gorgeous blue palm leaf pattern on a white background. The room’s awkward angles needed a pattern that would flow from wall to ceiling. Monochrome wallpaper worked perfectly, creating cohesion while hiding those challenging angles.

The blue gave the room a natural, coastal-inspired look. And because monochrome papers stick to 1–2 tones, it was easy to introduce additional pops of color.

Monochrome Wallpaper Designs I Love

1. Modern Installations

Monochrome wallpaper is perfect for modern homes — especially in small spaces like powder rooms, where it helps disguise architectural oddities. A similar effect can be achieved with custom murals, like the one I commissioned in the Scuba Diver’s Foyer.

2. Traditional & Transitional Styles

Monochrome wallpaper has history. Back in the day, it was called “toile.” A great example is the Doisy Etoile Paris Hotel, designed by Bénédicte Pierens and Raphaëlle Levet. The interior features sophisticated toile wallpaper, giving old-world charm a modern twist.

3. Pen & Ink Patterns

These styles allow bold color contrast. Just look at the hot pink accents in this treescape mural. Without the wallpaper, that wall would be builder beige—boring!

Leopard Monochrome in the Bedroom

This fierce leopard mural shows how monochrome doesn’t mean boring. The stark, artistic vibe adds drama and style without overwhelming the room.

Home Office or Laundry Room Ideas

In this home office, monochrome wallpaper turns utility pipes into background art. It’s functional, stylish, and inspiring — the kind of space you’d actually want to work in!

Can Monochrome Wallpaper Work with Antiques?

Absolutely. Monochrome wallcoverings have been around for centuries and pair beautifully with antique or vintage furniture. They’re timeless, classy, and always a conversation starter.

Looking for Monochrome Wallpaper or Custom Wall Art?

We’ve got you covered. Whether you’re seeking designer wallpaper, custom murals, or one-of-a-kind statement walls, our team is here to help. Contact us to discuss your vision — we’d love to bring it to life.

Thanks for stopping by! I hope you enjoyed this post as much as I enjoyed writing it. If you have thoughts, questions, or feedback, drop a comment below. I love hearing from you!

Happy Designing,
—Dee

P.S. Ready for a renovation?

Book a complimentary appointment with our luxury Dallas interior designers or kitchen contractors today.