The feature wall has long been a go-to technique in interior design. While effective, it represents just one of many ways to incorporate bold patterns into a room. Abstract wallpaper, with its dynamic colors and shapes, offers a particularly versatile medium for creative expression. Moving beyond a single accent wall opens up numerous possibilities to add character and depth to your living spaces. The key is to view the wallpaper not just as a wall covering, but as a flexible design element. Making the right selection is foundational, so our Choosing the right abstract wallpaper: a 2025 design guide can help you start.

Make a Ceiling Statement

Designers often refer to the ceiling as the "fifth wall," yet it is frequently overlooked. A modern abstract wallpaper applied overhead draws the eye upward, creating a sense of drama and making a room feel more expansive. This technique works especially well in rooms with high ceilings, but it can also introduce a surprising and sophisticated detail in smaller spaces like a powder room or entryway.

Frame Wallpaper as Art

For a less permanent or more focused application, frame a large section of abstract art wallpaper. Treat the paper as you would a fine art print. By mounting a beautifully patterned piece within a simple, elegant frame, you create a significant focal point. This method allows you to enjoy a bold design without committing to covering an entire surface, and you can easily move it to different rooms.

Revitalize Your Furniture

Give an old piece of furniture a new identity. You can apply abstract peel and stick wallpaper to the front of dresser drawers, the back panel of a bookcase, or the top of a console table. This is a simple weekend project that adds a custom, high-design feel to otherwise plain items. It introduces pattern and color in a contained and impactful way.

Design a Faux Headboard

Define your sleeping area by using a wallpaper with an abstract style to create a faux headboard. Cut a piece to the width of your bed and apply it directly to the wall where a headboard would sit. You can use a simple rectangular shape or get creative with a custom arch or geometric outline. This is an excellent way to ground the bed in the room, and it aligns with many of the abstract wallpaper trends taking over in 2025.

Line Shelves and Nooks

Introduce an element of surprise by lining the interior of built-in elements. Applying wallpaper to the back of a bookshelf, a display niche, or glass-front kitchen cabinets adds depth and visual interest. This subtle application provides a backdrop that makes your displayed objects pop. It delivers a curated and thoughtful detail that elevates the entire room.

Accentuate Doors and Archways

Doors and the walls within archways present unique canvases for design. Covering a flat-panel interior door with a striking pattern makes it a deliberate design feature instead of just a functional object. Similarly, using abstract wallpaper within a doorway or arch creates a beautiful transition from one space to the next, signalling a shift in the home's aesthetic.

Employ a Wainscoting Effect

For a classic look with a contemporary twist, use wallpaper on either the top or bottom portion of a wall. Traditionally, wainscoting involves wooden panels on the lower part of the wall. You can replicate this effect by applying an abstract mural wallpaper above or below a chair rail. This approach adds texture and pattern without visually overwhelming the space.

Ultimately, these methods demonstrate the immense potential of wallpaper beyond its conventional use. By thinking creatively, you can integrate patterns in unique ways that reflect your personal style. For a full recap of these ideas, you can always revisit our guide on beyond the feature wall: 7 creative ways to style abstract wallpaper to inspire your next project.