Big ideas for small rooms: wallpaper that makes space feel larger
Why bold pattern often works better than plain paint in cloakrooms, box rooms and alcoves.
It is a myth that small rooms need pale, plain walls. Designers have long used pattern to make tiny spaces feel intentional, and often larger.
Blur the edges
An all-over pattern disguises corners, so the eye cannot easily judge where walls end. Busy, mid-scale designs such as trailing botanicals and terrazzo are especially good at this.
Go dark
Deep grounds recede. A dark botanical or chinoiserie in a cloakroom creates a jewel-box effect – cosy, dramatic and surprisingly spacious.
Draw the eye up
Vertical stripes and climbing trellis designs make ceilings feel higher. Papering the ceiling too removes the 'lid' line altogether.
Keep the palette tight
Choose a design with two or three colours and repeat one in your towels or accessories. Browse our cloakroom wallpaper for ideas.