Problem solving
Wallpapering alcoves: ideas and how-to
Quick answer
Alcove backs either side of a chimney breast are a low-commitment place to try a bold pattern – often needing just one or two rolls.
Practical tips
- Paper behind shelving for a library effect.
- Centre the pattern on each alcove.
- A contrasting design to the main wall can work.
| At a glance | |
|---|---|
| Designs in this edit | 902 |
| Main styles | Geometric (184), Floral (138), Botanical (123) |
| Pattern repeats | 26.5–53 cm (median 53 cm) |
| Pattern match | 442 straight, 460 half-drop |
| Most suggested rooms | Living Room, Bedroom, Cloakroom |
| Price from | £44.20 per 52 cm × 10 m roll |
How much will I need?
For a typical living room wall of 4.2 m × 2.4 m with a 53 cm repeat: drop length 3.03 m, 3 drops per roll, 9 drops needed – 3 rolls (£132.60 on Standard, £170.82 Premium, £217.62 Luxe for non-Designer designs). Check your own walls with the calculator on each product page or our room planner.
Designs that fit
Geometric
Stafford Diamond Wallpaper
3 colourways · 53 cm repeat
From £44.20 per roll
Botanical
Rossiter Scattered Leaf Wallpaper
3 colourways · 53 cm repeat
From £44.20 per roll
Botanical
Magnolia Leaf Sprig Wallpaper
3 colourways · 53 cm repeat
From £44.20 per roll
Mid-Century
Hammond Atomic Star Wallpaper
3 colourways · 53 cm repeat
From £44.20 per roll
Geometric
Caldwell Diamond Wallpaper
3 colourways · 53 cm repeat
From £44.20 per roll
Art Deco
Vivian Deco Fan Wallpaper
3 colourways · 53 cm repeat
From £44.20 per roll
Geometric
Mayfair Interlocking Circle Wallpaper
3 colourways · 53 cm repeat
From £44.20 per roll
Arts & Crafts
Quincy Woodland Vine Wallpaper
3 colourways · 53 cm repeat
From £44.20 per roll
Geometric
Hadley Arch Wallpaper
3 colourways · 53 cm repeat
From £44.20 per roll
Abstract
Baxter Line & Dot Wallpaper
3 colourways · 53 cm repeat
From £44.20 per roll
Geometric
Everly Triangle Wallpaper
3 colourways · 53 cm repeat
From £44.20 per roll
Botanical
Sheldon Scattered Leaf Wallpaper
3 colourways · 53 cm repeat
From £44.20 per roll
Questions & answers
Wallpapering alcoves: ideas and how-to?
Alcove backs either side of a chimney breast are a low-commitment place to try a bold pattern – often needing just one or two rolls.
Which paper should I use?
Premium (scrubbable) for halls, bathrooms and kitchens; Luxe for the richest finish.