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Kitchen wallpaper ideas

By Ellie Reeves | 27th March 2025 | 6 min read

Move over paint, move over tiles, there’s a new kid in town. Kitchen wallpaper lets you transform the look of your kitchen with bold patterns and unique designs. It’s easy to apply, adds instant texture, and is available in a variety of colours. From rustic brick to tile effect kitchen wallpaper – you can take your pick from a range of styles. Want to learn more about using wallpaper in your kitchen? Carry on reading for tips and advice on finding the perfect wallpaper for your kitchen walls.

Can I use wallpaper in the kitchen?

Yes, you can. However, not all wallpaper is suitable for the kitchen. Make sure you shop around for special kitchen wallpaper that is washable and durable. Your kitchen is a high-traffic area, so it’s important to choose wallpaper that can stand up to spills, splashes, and cooking fumes. Luckily for you, we have a collection of vinyl and washable wallpapers that are suitable for use in the kitchen, bathroom, and other humid areas in the home. Wallpaper is so much easier to apply and remove than tiles or splashbacks, making it a fantastic alternative.

Consider the size of your kitchen

Before you start browsing wallpaper options, first things first, measure your kitchen walls. This way you can determine how many rolls of wallpaper you will need and what size patterns works best. Use our wallpaper calculator to work out how many rolls you’ll need. For more information about different wallpaper features and advice on how to choose the right one for your space, check out our wallpaper buying guide. It will tell you everything you need to know and more.

Wallpaper design ideas for a kitchen

No matter your style, there’s a wallpaper out there for you. From aquatic blues and forest greens to tiled splashback kitchen wallpaper. Have a scroll through these ideas and browse our selection of kitchen wallpaper at B&Q.

1. Tile effect kitchen wallpaper

Love the look of tiles, but don’t want the hassle of laying them? Not to mention the maintenance and regular grout cleaning. With tile effect kitchen wallpaper, you can get the wonderful look of tiles, minus the hard work. From pink tile effect wallpaper to marble herringbone – we’ve got plenty of tile wallpaper styles to choose from.

Rustic wood panel effect wallpaper in a dining room.

2. Wood effect wallpaper

Bring some rustic charm to your cooking space with wood panel wallpaper. From distressed planked effect to elegant panelling wallpaper, we’ve got loads of different styles to choose from. Wooden wallpaper will give your kitchen a cosy, homely feel. Have a browse through our wood panel effect wallpaper and create the ultimate place for relaxing with the family over dinner.

Grey and white rustic brick effect wallpaper in a dining room.

3. Kitchen brick wallpaper

Create an industrial look in your kitchen with brick effect wallpaper. Exposed brick walls give your room an effortlessly cool Brooklyn loft vibe. However, breaking up your plaster and knocking your wall back to its brick base can be a tricky (and extremely messy) job. There’s also a risk that the brickwork underneath is damaged and you don’t get the look you were hoping for. With brick wallpaper you can choose the colour and effect to get the exact look you’re after.

Green, blue and yellow floral print wallpaper.

4. Floral kitchen wallpaper

The kitchen is the heart of the home, we spend so much time in there – it’s important that we surround ourselves with beautiful patterns and colours that bring us joy. Bring some cheer to your kitchen with beautiful botanical wallpaper. From bold jungle vibes to delicate florals, we’ve got a huge selection of nature-inspired kitchen wallpaper to choose from.

5. Unusual kitchen wallpaper

Looking for something a little more... out there? Your kitchen décor is an opportunity to have some fun and really put your stamp on the place. From pheasants to fishes, we’ve got plenty of unique and bold wallpaper prints that will bring life back into your kitchen. Take your pick!

Metallic effect kitchen wallpaper in a room with a vase full of pink flowers.

6. Metallic kitchen wallpaper

If you want a sophisticated and sumptuous look in your kitchen, choose wallpaper with a metallic finish. From ornate patterns to textured wallpaper with silvery metallic highlights – there are loads of styles and finishes to choose from. Cook, eat, and entertain in luxury with our selection of metallic effect kitchen wallpaper.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of wallpaper is best for a kitchen?

Vinyl or vinyl-coated wallpapers are usually best for kitchens. They resist moisture, are wipeable and handle light scrubbing, making them easier to clean around splashes and cooking grease. Non-woven papers can also work well, as they’re dimensionally stable and simpler to hang. For high-splash areas choose washable, scrubbable finishes or use a tiled or glass splashback behind the hob, and consider peel-and-stick options if you want an easier temporary solution.

What is the wallpaper trend for 2026?

The wallpaper trend for 2026 favours natural textures and sustainable, tactile designs. Expect earthy colour palettes, botanical and large-scale floral prints, soft geometrics and hand-painted or artisanal effects, combined with durable, wipeable vinyls suitable for kitchens. Terrazzo and woven-look papers are popular for adding depth, while muted pastels and rich, moody tones create statement feature walls. Choose finishes that balance style with practical, easy-to-clean performance.

What wallpaper is trending right now?

Current trends favour natural textures, botanical prints and bold geometric patterns. Popular choices include washable vinyl or coated papers for kitchens, textured grasscloth or linen-effect wallpapers for warmth, and large-scale floral or tropical prints to add personality. Peel-and-stick papers are also trending for easy updating and rental-friendly changes. Choose colours and scale that suit your kitchen size and lighting to keep the space balanced and durable.

Is it a good idea to put wallpaper in the kitchen?

Yes, wallpaper can work well in a kitchen if you choose the right type and position it away from direct splash and heat. Use washable or vinyl-backed papers designed for high-moisture areas, ensure walls are clean, dry and primed, and install splashbacks behind sinks and hobs to protect vulnerable areas. Good ventilation helps reduce steam and grease build-up, and patterned papers can help disguise minor marks between cleanings.