5 Tips for Using Wallpaper in Interior Design from HGTV Hosts Brian and Mika

When it comes to wallpaper, HGTV stars Brian and Mika say the trend never really went away. In fact, the popular hosts of 100 Day Dream Home believe wallpaper is here to stay. That said, it has evolved. The dated borders of the ’90s are gone (RIP faux bookshelves, teddy bears, and train trims), making room for a new era of elevated wallpaper

When the opportunity arose, we were delighted to partner with this dynamic design duo to create a curated wallpaper collection. The Brian and Mika wallpaper collection includes 11 beautiful prints ranging from bold patterns to calming hues, and everything in between.

“The process of creating our collaboration was so fun,” Brian said. “We took the patterns to social media and let our followers and Little Cocalico fans select their favorites, so we knew from the start that we were creating something beautiful that people will love for a long time.”

So beautiful, in fact, that Brian and Mika recently asked us to print wallpaper from their collection to elevate a home design in season 7 of 100 Day Dream Home. We chatted with the design duo who shared five tips for using wallpaper to elevate your home interior – and it’s as simple as peel and stick! Let’s get rolling.

Use Wallpaper to Set the Mood and Tone of Your Space

“Wallpaper is one element that can easily set the tone of a room,” the couple explained. Whether seeking a soothing tone for a nursery, a moody vibe for a home library, or a pop of fun in a powder bath, wallpaper forms a foundation for the entire room. And according to Brian and Mika, this matters more than ever.  

“During the pandemic we all began spending more time at home, and many who made the shift continue to work from home.” Mika explained. “And so this place you live, eat, work, and connect needs to be more than just a space – it’s more personal than that. It needs to be something that reflects you, an extension of your personality.”

Brian and Mika explained how this philosophy guides them through every project. “When we are working with clients, it’s not about my personal style, “ she said, confessing a leaning toward coastal vibes, “It’s all about creating a space that reflects the individual.”

She adds  that every space, like every person, is entirely unique. Which leads us to Brian and Mika’s tip number two…

Customize Wallpaper Prints to Match Your Personal Style

Okay, so this might not be possible everywhere, but it is with Little Cocalico – a feature Brian and Mika appreciate as designers. “If you haven’t played around on Little Cocalico’s website, you need to,” Brian urges, explaining how the tool allows customers to customize available wallpaper prints by adjusting the design scale. The website customizer tool essentially allows you to zoom in and out on a print, creating big and bold patterns or subtle, detailed looks – all from the same print!

Mika and Brian shared their personal preferences when it comes to print. “My personal preference is toward calmer patterns, so I might zoom in to eliminate some busyness from a print,” Mika said. Meanwhile, her counterpart is more likely to zoom out, capturing more of a pattern in all its energetic glory.

But maybe you have something altogether different in mind. We love to see it! At Little Cocalico, many of our clients opt for a fully customizable print where they upload a design, and we make the magic…or print and production…happen.

Consider the Space Before Choosing Wallpaper

Before settling on a print, Brian and Mika encourage decorators to consider the space they’re working with. “Think about things like light, texture, and the size of the space before settling on a wallpaper,” Mika encouraged.

If you are working with a textured wall, for example, Brian and Mika encourage using a wallpaper that is thick or textured to disguise the surface texture of the wall itself. Additionally, they recommend using glued wallpaper rather than peel-and-stick on a textured wall, for smoother application.

When it comes to the size of the wallpapered space, Mika says, “Busy patterns can overwhelm a space. They can be great for an accent or in smaller spaces, but might not be your best long-term pick for a large room.” Of course, this is just a general guideline, not a rule. The designers offer this reminder, “Ultimately, you have to trust yourself and your vision!”

Finally, they recommend considering the light in a space – using a lighter pattern to brighten up a dark room, or picking a darker print to add a moody element to an already well-lit space.

Coordinate Wallpaper with Fabrics and Finishes

Coordinating colors and patterns is a simple way to pull a space together – adding cohesion and sophistication to any room. Brian and Mika have employed this strategy with their Little Cocalico collection by including matching wallpaper and custom printed fabrics. 

“It’s so convenient to have fabric and wallpaper printing in one spot,” the couple said, referring to our dual offerings here at Little Cocalico. “We even went so far as to have shirts made to match some of our favorite wallpaper prints,” Brian laughed (we have photo evidence – he wasn’t kidding!)

Of course not every application of this advice has to follow that level of commitment. It could come in the form of drapes, throw pillows, or an upholstered ottoman. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box. (Actually, let’s just take a look at tip #5)

Think Outside the Walls: Creative Ways to Use Wallpaper

Don’t let the name limit you, wallpaper is for so much more than walls. Brian and Mika are full of creative applications. “Well one simple switch up is to wallpaper the ceiling too,” said Brian, explaining how several of their recent projects have included wallpaper on five sides of the room. 

They also mentioned a craft center they created for a recent client. “We wallpapered the back panels of the shelving, for a completely custom look.” 

Another unique idea is framing wallpaper as art. “We also love the idea of taking a larger scale piece and framing it like a work of art – a big impact at an effective cost.”

The couple threw out idea after idea, emphasizing the endless possibilities of wallpaper application in a home — resurfacing old furniture, lining drawers, or even using scraps to wrap presents. We’re here for all of it!

Feeling inspired by Brian and Mika’s tips for using wallpaper in interior design? Start your custom wallpaper order by exploring their collection or learn more about our wallpaper printing services.