Choosing Between Wallpaper and Murals

ByYvette

Imagine walking into a room where the walls set the mood instantly. Maybe it’s a soft, textured pattern that quietly supports the décor—or a bold, floor-to-ceiling scene that transforms the space. That’s the power of choosing the right wall covering. And while people often confuse wallpaper and murals, they are very different tools in interior design.

If you’re trying to decide which one is right for your home or business, understanding their differences will help you make the best choice.

Wallpaper vs. Mural: The Basic

Wallpaper is a classic wall covering with repeating patterns, textures, or colors.
A mural, on the other hand, is a large-scale image or artwork printed in high resolution.

Wallpaper repeats.
A mural makes a statement.

How Each One Is Made

Wallpaper

  • Printed with repeating patterns
  • Mass-produced in rolls
  • Designed for full-room use
  • Creates harmony and consistency

Wallpaper offers versatility and subtle design that complements furniture and décor.

Murals

  • Digitally printed as one complete image
  • Installed in multiple panels
  • Often customized to fit specific wall sizes
  • Creates depth, realism, and impact

Murals are bold and artistic, bringing drama and personality to a space.

Where Each One Works Best

Wallpaper Works When You Want:

  • Full-room coverage
  • Texture or soft pattern
  • A cohesive, comfortable background
  • Easy coordination with décor

It’s ideal for bedrooms, offices, living rooms, and hallways.

Murals Work When You Want:

  • A dramatic focal point
  • Visual impact
  • A feature wall with personality
  • Minimal furniture or open space

Perfect for lobbies, reception areas, long hallways, kid spaces, and modern living rooms.

Design Differences

Even if wallpaper and murals share similar themes, their look is dramatically different.

  • Wallpaper
    • Symmetrical, repeating pattern
    • Adds subtle style
    • Not customizable
  • Murals
    • Unique, non-repeating artwork
    • Highly detailed and immersive
    • Fully customizable

Murals create an experience. Wallpaper creates atmosphere.

Which Should You Choose?

Choose wallpaper if you want:

  • A whole-room transformation
  • Soft patterns or texture
  • A design that complements décor

Choose a mural if you want:

  • A bold focal point
  • High visual drama
  • Customizable artwork

You can also mix both—use wallpaper throughout the room and a mural to anchor one standout wall.

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