WHERE ARTISTRY MEETS PERFORMANCE

Wallcoverings, Not Wallpaper: Understanding the Difference

What truly distinguishes wallcoverings from wallpaper—and how it impacts quality, safety, and design.

Wallpaper and wallcoverings—are they actually different?

The short answer is: no

Wallpaper and wallcoverings are often used interchangeably, which is why the difference can feel a little confusing at first.

But in the design world, they are not the same—and understanding that distinction can completely change how you think about what goes on your walls.

Because it’s not just about how something looks. It’s about how it performs, where it can be used, and how it supports the overall experience of a space.

Why does this distinction matter?

Because it goes far beyond terminology—it shapes how a material performs in real life.

In a residential setting, the focus is often on aesthetics and light, everyday wear. The material needs to look beautiful and hold up to typical daily living.

In hospitality environments, the demands shift. Walls experience constant traffic, luggage movement, frequent cleaning, and the need to maintain a refined appearance despite heavy use.

In healthcare settings, the expectations become even more critical. Materials must support cleanability, meet safety standards, and contribute to a space that feels both calming and dependable.

Understanding these differences helps set clear expectations—not just for how something looks, but how it functions within the context of the space it’s designed for.

This is exactly why I chose to build my studio around wallcoverings.

Every material I offer is thoughtfully manufactured to perform across a wide range of environments—from residential homes to hospitality, commercial, and healthcare spaces. This allows me to design without limitation, knowing that each piece can meet both the aesthetic and functional demands of the space it’s created for.

The Details

Wallcoverings go far beyond what most people traditionally think of as wallpaper. They are designed not only for visual impact, but for how they feel, perform, and endure over time. Discover what makes my products exceptional

MATERIALS

Wallcoverings encompass a rich variety of materials—from textiles and grasscloth to silk, linen, and specialty finishes. This creates a more tactile, layered, and sensory experience, adding depth and dimension to a space.
PERFORMANCE

Unlike lighter-weight options, wallcoverings are built for longevity. They are designed to withstand daily wear, resist damage in high-traffic areas, and, in many cases, allow for cleanability—making them a practical choice for both residential and commercial interiors.
SAFETY

Many wallcoverings meet rigorous safety standards, including fire ratings and low-VOC certifications. This makes them especially valuable in environments where wellness, air quality, and code compliance are essential considerations.

Wallcoverings allow for a higher level of customization

This isn’t just about creating something that looks beautiful—it’s about designing with intention for the specific needs of a space.

Scale can be adjusted for smaller versus expansive feature areas. Colors can be refined to support a more calming, wellness-focused environment. Even material selections can be tailored to the aesthetic of the space.

This flexibility allows each design to move beyond a one-size-fits-all approach and become something far more considered—where aesthetics and function are fully aligned.

Both wallpaper and wallcoverings have their place—but they serve very different purposes.

So which team are you?

Team Wallpaper or Team Wallcovering?