The Stunning DIY Twist On Accent Walls That You Should Try

There's wallpaper. And there are canopies. Put them together and you get: wallpaper canopies. What is a wallpaper canopy, exactly? Think accent wall but with a twist. Instead of limiting wallpaper or paint to just one accent wall, you extend it up to the ceiling to create a canopy-like covering within a space. While the project does seem like quite a feat, it's actually a simple DIY if you utilize some pro tips from the concept originator and interior designer, Becks Huntley. Huntley brainstormed this twist on accent walls when designing a dining nook inside her home. She wanted to add a unique pop of color and personality to the space while keeping it cozy and inviting. The name "wallpaper canopy," however, was given to the concept by an Instagram comment on the post left by someone who saw the idea, and the name stuck.

The end result looks professionally done but makes for a fun, simple project that's one of many innovative ways to use wallpaper in any room. Whether you want to spruce up your own dining area or add a pop of color to a cozy reading nook in your home, a wallpaper canopy is a stunning DIY twist that can revamp or replace outdated accent walls. Read on to see how you can efficiently and successfully install a wallpaper canopy in a room or space using pro tips from Huntley.

First up, you'll want to choose the location for your wallpaper canopy. It can cover the full wall or just a small section as Huntley did in her dining room. Also, decide how far along the ceiling you want it to run. For example, in a dining room, you might extend it over the dining table. After deciding on a space to add your wallpaper canopy to, you'll want to select a wallpaper color or print to accent your wall with. If you're choosing a solid color, be mindful of existing decor and color palettes, and select a feature color accordingly. 

If you're opting for a printed design, choose one that is multidirectional. The pattern should blend and complement the area, not overpower it. It should also look good no matter which direction you look at it from, so find wallpaper that does not have patterns that must be facing certain ways. Picking wallpaper with a repetitive pattern can make it easier to install if you end up using multiple rolls or panels. As for the type of wallpaper to use, peel-and-stick options offer easier application (and removal if the pattern ends up not being to your liking). 

Prior to installation, make sure to measure the space where you're installing your wallpaper canopy accurately. This helps you buy enough wallpaper to encompass the designated area. Stencil or outline the area where you plan on applying the wallpaper to make sure the canopy won't be too large or too small. Apply the wallpaper or paint to the section, wait for it to dry, and enjoy your new eye-catching wallpaper canopy!