Decorate

Green wallpaper ideas for a fresh space

We got some sage advice from the experts.
Photography: Alana Landsberry / Styling: Nonci Nyoni

Green has been creeping onto people’s radars when it comes to interiors – and we’re seeing a newfound love for green wallpaper. From lighter shades of pistachio to deeper forest hues, it’s a colour that’s being embraced like it’s the new neutral.

In a similar way that neutrals soothe, we’re discovering green delivers a decompressing effect too. “It brings a calming and cosy feel,” confirms Nonci Nyoni who styled these rooms for Home Beautiful. “Green in general adds a feeling of freshness and lightness, like you get from taking a walk outdoors.”

green kitchen cabinets
(Credit: Photography: Alana Landsberry / Styling: Nonci Nyoni)

Is green wallpaper in for 2023?

There’s been an increased interest in green wallpaper in nature-based designs. “Things like florals, animals, fruits and other botanical designs,” says Bryce Capp, co-founder of wallpaper company Milton & King

Green geometric wallpaper is also having a moment. “Our Tuile wallpaper in Sage Light Beige would be the perfect addition to a modern kitchen and would pair exceptionally well with light-coloured cabinets and gold accents,” says Bryce. “Our Candy Stripe design in Sea Spray would be stunning in a living room or bedroom – and suits almost any interior, from farmhouse to minimalist, bohemian and traditional.” 

sage green trend wallpaper
(Credit: Photography: Alana Landsberry / Styling: Nonci Nyoni)

SHOP THE LOOK

Green door decor 

We’ve seen sage green kitchen cabinets and green door decor winning everyone over but deeper greens like moss and olive are rising in popularity. A green door is a simple way to update your home. Paint it in a rich shade of green like this one, which also looks good on a fireplace, shelving or kitchen cabinets. “Porter’s Bayleaf has just the right amount of punch to lift what could otherwise be a dull, flat space,” says Nonci.  

Green front door
(Credit: Photography: Alana Landsberry / Styling: Nonci Nyoni)

What colours go with green?

Green goes well with other natural tones like browns, grey, white and beige, as well as other greens, blues and yellows. “If you’re going for a more modern look, pair green with gold or brass accents, like tapware and handles in a bathroom or kitchen,” says Bryce. “If you want a more natural, rustic look, it pairs well with timber and rattan furniture.” 

sage green dining area
(Credit: Photography: Alana Landsberry / Styling: Nonci Nyoni)

Is green a current interior trend?

We’re seeing more colour in general being used in the home. “I think people are getting a bit more comfortable with incorporating it into soft furnishings such as curtains, cushions, rugs and bedding, as well as accessories like bedside lamps and throw blankets,” says Nonci.  

Green is particularly appealing as it’s a foolproof colour. “It’s not overwhelming but it’s a little bolder than a basic grey or cream, which we’ve seen people moving away from in recent years,” says Bryce.

sage green trend living room
(Credit: Photography: Alana Landsberry / Styling: Nonci Nyoni)

Other green decor ideas

You might want to ease into adding green to your space with green home decor items. “Start with accessories like a cushion, vase or candle – they’re easy to move around the house until you find where they feel right,” advises Nonci. 

sage green trend bedroom
(Credit: Photography: Alana Landsberry / Styling: Nonci Nyoni)

“It’s important to create a balance so nothing stands out too much,” she adds. “Choose which part of the room is going to be the main focal point with a solid colour, then build the layers around that, perhaps including a patterned wallpaper, elements of brass, a textured rug or a soft fabric element.” 

sage green trend bathroom
(Credit: Photography: Alana Landsberry / Styling: Nonci Nyoni)

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