Say Goodbye To Shiny Wallpaper: The Texture Trend That's Taking Over

Ever since the busy floral patterns of the 1980s and 1990s, wallpaper has been somewhat of a controversial topic in the interior design world. Love it or hate it, though, wallpaper is likely here to stay. What is constantly evolving, however, is which wallpaper is trending. In 2025, for example, wallpaper murals became a popular way to create statement accent walls, while the year prior leaned heavily into soft botanical and nature-inspired patterns, and shiny, metallic finishes. This year, on the other hand, it's the texture of the wallpaper that's taking over trends, rather than the pattern itself or shiny finishes. 

During a recent interview with Better Homes & Gardens, Elizabeth Rees, co-founder of wallpaper brand Chasing Paper, explained, "My prediction is that we are going to see a lot more faux grasscloth wallpaper being used since it has a woven, textured look that easily adds dimension to a space with the added benefit of durability in high-traffic areas." She added that plaster-like wallpapers will be heavily favored as well, replacing high-gloss and shiny finishes that have been the go-to in recent years. With more homeowners these days gravitating toward natural, unfussy interiors and nature-inspired decor trends, it's no surprise that organic-looking wallpapers are on the rise. Whether made from natural woven fibers such as grasscloth or linen, the latter of which was recently named Etsy's first ever Texture of the Year, or designed to mimic them, textured wallpapers can bring a sense of effortless elegance to any home. They also align perfectly with interiors that prioritize natural materials, earthy tones, and designs that focus on bringing the outdoors inside to create a warm, inviting, and calming atmosphere.

If you like the idea of adding textured wallpaper to your home but aren't sure which option to choose, start by considering the existing aesthetic of your home, as well as the overall mood you want the wallpaper to bring to your space. For a warm and cozy feel, wallpaper made from woven fibers is a great option and works especially well in homes with a rustic farmhouse or cottage-inspired style. While these wallpapers come in a range of colors, opting for a natural tan or beige hue, like the Lenify Beige Grasscloth Peel and Stick Wallpaper, will help maintain an organic look. 

Placement matters, too. Wallpapers made of grasscloth or other natural woven fibers shouldn't be installed in high-moisture areas, as humidity can damage the material. This means they're better suited to living rooms or bedrooms rather than kitchens, bathrooms, or laundry rooms, where they can add warmth and a touch of sophistication. If moisture is a concern, faux grasscloth wallpapers offer the same textured effect with added durability.

For homes that lean more modern, minimalist, or industrial, plaster-like wallpaper — especially in warm earth tones — can also bring a subtle texture and intentionally imperfect finish to your space. On the flip side, this style also works beautifully in timeless Mediterranean-inspired interiors, where textured finishes and warm, sun-washed tones are key. If you've ever considered a limewash wall color to add old-world elegance to your space, plaster-like wallpaper, such as the Advantage Ichika Beige Plaster Wallpaper from Walmart, provides a similar look without the commitment.