Everything old is new again, and wallpaper is back in a big way. And we do mean BIG. Today’s trendiest wallpapers feature bold, outsized designs, many with botanical, geometric, or architectural themes. Don’t think big means busy. Designs are stripped of detail, almost like an artist’s preliminary sketch: a branch here, a stylized flower there – but on a really large canvas. We love the subtle tone-on-tone patterns in muted colors that barely hint at the design.

Some of the new wallpapers have a sheen produced by embedding tiny – almost microscopic – glass beads in the surface. These papers give a really luxe look to a formal dining room where candlelight sparkles off the walls. Other innovations include paintable wallpapers (great for kids’ rooms) and jute wallpapers. There are even wallpapers meant to be hung outdoors. Damask designs aren’t new, but today’s colors make them look up-to-the minute.

Decide where you’re going to hang it before you choose a wallpaper. Pick something durable for kitchens, baths, and kid’s rooms. You can use a big design in a small room, but you might opt for papering just one wall or choosing a pastel tone-on-tone pattern.

Cost is another factor. Wallpapers run from about $12 per roll to $200 and up. Special textures and natural products like jute and grasscloth that have paper backings are at the high end. These papers should be hung by professionals. How much to order? Consult your decorator or the sales representative. It never hurts to order a little bit extra, especially if you’ll need to match the pattern.

To view some of the hottest design trends, visit the Arte wallcovering and fabric web site. Another favorite we suggest is the York Wallcoverings web site.