There is a unique responsibility – and a profound joy! that comes with living in a period home. Whether it is the high ceilings of a Georgian townhouse, the intricate crown moulding of a Victorian terrace, or the airy, craft-focused feel of an Edwardian cottage, these buildings have stories to tell.
When it comes to redecorating, the goal isn’t just to “fix up” a room; it’s to enhance that existing character. It’s our responsibility as custodians of these properties to look after them. Choosing the right wallpaper is perhaps the most effective way to do this. The right print can act as a bridge between the past and the present, honouring the architecture while reflecting your own visionary style.
Here is how to select wallpaper that complements period architecture with timeless elegance.
1. Understand the Era: Architecture as Your Guide
Before browsing patterns, take a moment to look at the “bones” of your room. Different architectural periods have distinct personalities, and your wallpaper can either lean into that history or provide a sophisticated contrast.
- Georgian (1714–1837): Known for symmetry and proportion. Georgians loved “bringing the outdoors in” with delicate botanicals and Chinoiserie. Think airy, spacious designs that don’t crowd the room’s natural balance.
- Victorian (1837–1901): This era embraced drama and richness. Think deep colours, intricate patterns, and highly detailed florals. This is the era of the “feature” wall, or even better, wallpapering above a dado rail to create a layered, textured look.
- Edwardian (1901–1910): A shift toward lighter, fresher spaces. Edwardian homes often feature larger windows, so wallpapers with soft pastels, floral sprigs, and “primrose” palettes work beautifully to amplify the natural light.
2. Embrace Traditional Patterns: The Power of the Hand-Drawn
In a world of mass-produced, digital prints, there is something incredibly soulful about a hand-drawn pattern. Period homes were built by craftsmen, as shown by the sometimes wonky walls or the incredible detail of a bannister – and they respond best to decor that shares that same “human touch.”
Classic Florals
Nothing suits a period bedroom or drawing room quite like a floral. To keep it feeling timeless rather than dated, look for designs with an organic flow – climbing vines, delicate meadow flowers, or sweeping petals. These patterns soften the straight lines of antique furniture and high skirting boards.
Damasks and Stripes
For a more formal feel, a subtle damask or a classic stripe can add structure to a room. In a hallway or dining room, a vertical stripe can emphasise the magnificent height of period ceilings, making the space feel even more grand.
The Benefit of Tradition
The beauty of using traditional patterns is that they never truly go out of style. While “trends” come and go, a well-chosen botanical or a soft geometric repeat will look just as relevant in ten years as it does today.
3. Consider Your Colour Palette: Harmonising with Heritage
Colour is the emotional heartbeat of a room. When working with period homes, you don’t necessarily have to stick to “historical” colours (which could be quite dark and heavy), but you should consider the “tones” of the era.
- Sage Greens and Dusty Pinks: These are incredible for creating a serene, “heritage” feel that works perfectly in nurseries or master bedrooms.
- Deep Navy and Forest Green: Use these in smaller spaces like cloakrooms or libraries to create a “jewel box” effect that feels snug and sophisticated.
- Neutral Tones with a Twist: If you prefer a minimalist look, choose a wallpaper with a neutral base but a subtle, hand-drawn detail in a charcoal or gold. This adds depth without overwhelming the room’s original features.
Expert Tip: Always look at your wallpaper samples at different times of the day. Period homes often have deep window recesses that create unique shadows – you want to ensure your chosen colour looks just as beautiful in the evening glow as it does in the morning sun.
4. Mixing Old with New:
A Contemporary Interpretation
You don’t have to live in a museum. Some of the most successful period renovations are those that blend historical wallpaper with modern elements. This “New Traditionalist” style is all about balance.
- Modern Furniture, Classic Walls: Pair a traditional floral wallpaper with a sleek, mid-century modern sideboard or a contemporary velvet sofa. The contrast makes both elements stand out.
- The Fifth Wall: Don’t be afraid to wallpaper the ceiling! In a room with high ceilings and beautiful coving, a soft, patterned ceiling can create an incredibly cosy, high-end designer feel.
- Bold Scales: Using an oversized, visionary pattern in an old house can make the space feel fresh and artistic rather than stuck in the past.
Conclusion: A Home That Tells a Story
Choosing wallpaper for a period home is an act of preservation and personal expression. By respecting the era of your home while embracing the artistry of hand-drawn designs, you create a space that feels both historic and vibrantly alive.
Your home has stood the test of time – now it’s time to give it a backdrop that does the same!
Ready to find your match?
Looking for the perfect wallpaper to complement your period home? Browse our collection of timeless, hand-drawn designs and find the pattern that speaks to your home’s history. Explore our Wallpapers.