Winnipeg Ideas

Jul 03, 2026 RAW
Article

Wallpaper Behind Built-in Shelves: Transform Your Living Room

Elevate Your Living Room: Wallpaper Behind Built-in Shelves

Oona Wallpaper
Oona Wallpaper

Transform your living room into a unique and captivating space with a creative use of wallpaper behind built-in shelves. This design trend not only adds a touch of personality but also creates a striking focal point. Let's delve into the art of incorporating wallpaper into your shelving units, exploring various styles, tips, and tricks to make your living room stand out.

30+ Wallpaper Ideas to Spice Up Your Bookshelves
30+ Wallpaper Ideas to Spice Up Your Bookshelves

Why Wallpaper Behind Built-in Shelves?

Wallpapering the backs of built-in shelves serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it draws the eye to the shelves, making them a statement feature. Secondly, it adds depth and texture, creating the illusion of a larger space. Lastly, it's an excellent way to introduce color, pattern, or texture without overpowering the entire room.

a living room filled with furniture and a flat screen tv mounted on a wall above a fireplace
a living room filled with furniture and a flat screen tv mounted on a wall above a fireplace

Choosing the Right Wallpaper

Selecting the perfect wallpaper is crucial. Here are some factors to consider:

a white book shelf filled with books next to a clock and other items on top of it
a white book shelf filled with books next to a clock and other items on top of it
  • Scale: Smaller patterns work best for smaller shelves, while larger patterns can make a bold statement on expansive units.
  • Color: Consider the room's color scheme. You could match the wallpaper to your existing decor or use it as a pop of color.
  • Texture: Wallpapers with texture can add depth and interest, especially in minimalist spaces.

Wallpaper Styles for Built-in Shelves

From geometric to floral, there's a wallpaper style to suit every taste. Here are some popular choices:

Built-in's With Wallpaper
Built-in's With Wallpaper

Geometric Patterns

Geometric wallpapers, such as hexagons, triangles, or stripes, create a modern, bold look. They work particularly well in contemporary or industrial-style living rooms.

Floral and Botanical Designs

a living room with bookshelves and baskets on the top shelf, along with two chairs
a living room with bookshelves and baskets on the top shelf, along with two chairs

For a touch of nature, consider floral or botanical wallpapers. These can add a soft, romantic touch to traditional or bohemian-style spaces.

Textured Wallpapers

a living room filled with furniture and a flat screen tv mounted on a wall above a fireplace
a living room filled with furniture and a flat screen tv mounted on a wall above a fireplace
a living room filled with furniture and wallpaper covered in flowered wallsticks
a living room filled with furniture and wallpaper covered in flowered wallsticks
Creative Ideas for Wallpaer Behind Bookcase Decor
Creative Ideas for Wallpaer Behind Bookcase Decor
Phillip Jeffries Totally Tatami Wallcovering - Emerald Green Modern Living Room
Phillip Jeffries Totally Tatami Wallcovering - Emerald Green Modern Living Room
Peel & Stick Wallpaper: Home Decorating Bestie for Commitment-Phobes | Refined Rooms
Peel & Stick Wallpaper: Home Decorating Bestie for Commitment-Phobes | Refined Rooms
Blue Swallow Bird Cloud Wallpaper Coastal Neutral Living Room Home Watercolor Art
Blue Swallow Bird Cloud Wallpaper Coastal Neutral Living Room Home Watercolor Art
a living room filled with furniture and a flat screen tv mounted on a wall above a fireplace
a living room filled with furniture and a flat screen tv mounted on a wall above a fireplace
a living room filled with lots of shelves covered in baskets and deer head mounted to the wall
a living room filled with lots of shelves covered in baskets and deer head mounted to the wall
a white vase with flowers on top of a shelf next to a wallpapered wall
a white vase with flowers on top of a shelf next to a wallpapered wall
a white chair sitting in front of a wall mounted shelf with vases and flowers on it
a white chair sitting in front of a wall mounted shelf with vases and flowers on it
a living room with blue bookshelves and floral wallpaper
a living room with blue bookshelves and floral wallpaper
How to Wallpaper Built in Shelves - DIY Grasscloth Wallpaper for $45!
How to Wallpaper Built in Shelves - DIY Grasscloth Wallpaper for $45!
a living room filled with furniture and a fire place in front of a wall mounted fireplace
a living room filled with furniture and a fire place in front of a wall mounted fireplace
a white book shelf with flowers and pictures on it
a white book shelf with flowers and pictures on it
Revamp Your Shelves – Chic Cabinet Wallpaper Ideas You’ll Love
Revamp Your Shelves – Chic Cabinet Wallpaper Ideas You’ll Love
a living room filled with furniture and lots of windows
a living room filled with furniture and lots of windows

Wallpapers with textures like brick, wood, or stone can add warmth and depth. They're perfect for creating a cozy, cabin-like feel in your living room.

Tips for Applying Wallpaper to Built-in Shelves

Before you start, here are some tips to ensure a smooth application process:

  • Measure your shelves accurately to avoid wastage.
  • Use a primer to ensure the wallpaper adheres well and to seal the surface.
  • Consider using a paste-the-wall wallpaper for easier application.
  • Take your time matching patterns, especially with larger designs.

Styling Your Wallpapered Shelves

Once your wallpaper is up, it's time to style your shelves. Here are some ideas:

  • Use the shelves to display your favorite books, art, or collectibles.
  • Add greenery with potted plants to bring life and color to the shelves.
  • Layer different heights and textures of objects to create visual interest.

Incorporating wallpaper behind built-in shelves is a fantastic way to add personality and style to your living room. Whether you opt for a bold pattern or a subtle texture, this design trend is sure to make your space stand out. So, go ahead, get creative, and transform your living room into a space you truly love.