Heritage Arts and Crafts Inspired British Wallpaper – The Luxury Designer Wallpaper Trend for 2026

When it comes to Wallpaper Trends for 2026, one thing is certain: wallpaper is no longer just an afterthought. It has become a central design choice for homeowners and interior designers alike, with luxury designer wallpaper being embraced across both modern homes and lovingly renovated period properties. From elegant bathrooms and downstairs cloakrooms to statement bedrooms, luxury kitchens and dramatic living rooms, wallpaper is now a timeless way to transform any interior.

A Shift Towards Dramatic and Personalised Interiors

Over the past decade, interiors have moved away from the pared-back neutrals and plain grey walls that once dominated. In their place, we’re seeing a return to richer, more expressive design choices that create atmosphere and personality. Homeowners are looking for timeless wallpaper that makes an impact. Interior designs that offer character, depth and a connection to heritage, often British heritage and design.

This growing appetite for creating more personalised and dramatic interiors is bringing Heritage Wallpaper firmly back into focus. Inspired by the Arts and Crafts movement and iconic figures such as William Morris, today’s wallpapers celebrate craft, artistry and storytelling while still feeling fresh and contemporary.

Image copyright Nicola Gill, The Old Stout House.

 

Why Heritage Wallpaper Feels So Timeless

Heritage styles resonate because they balance history with modern living. Arts and Crafts inspired wallcoverings, for example, are steeped in design tradition yet remain remarkably versatile. They sit beautifully in period properties but also provide a striking contrast in modern spaces.

Designers and homeowners alike are seeking out unique, less-mass-produced wallpapers to create curated, characterful rooms. My Bloomsbury Moth Wallpaper, for example, has become a favourite among interior designers who want to inject personality and depth into their projects. With its dark and decadent palette, it’s a maximalist’s dream and a true luxury designer wallpaper choice.

Bedroom with Bloomsbury Moth wallpaper with blue and green swirling foliage and illustrations of Moths. There is a gold framed metal bed with a contemporary mid century modern duvet cover and a wicker armchair with a pink floral cushion. Image copyright Nicola Gill, The Old Stout House.
Image copyright Nicola Gill, The Old Stout House.

Wallpaper Trends for 2026 – Layering patterns and colours.

Looking ahead, Wallpaper Trends for 2026 point strongly towards maximalism. Bold prints, deep colour palettes and layered patterns are defining features of this movement. Expect to see wallpapers that don’t just decorate walls but transform them into works of art.

Rather than being a fleeting trend, timeless wallpaper, particularly British Wallpaper with heritage influences, will continue to anchor interior design for years to come. These styles endure because they bring warmth, character and a sense of place that paint alone simply cannot achieve.
Beautiful bedroom with April Mawhinney's Bloomsbury Moth wallpaper on the walls. The wallpaper is coloured in navy blues, greens and browns, in a swirling William Morris inspired design. It has moths and yellow celadine flowers on it. The bedroom has blue velvet curtains, and a coral linen button backed armchair in the corner. There is a large standard lamp, a bed with a navy tropical inspired duvet cover and a mustard yellow blanket.
Image copyright Sophie, The Dressing Room Bute, Rothesay.

Luxury Heritage Wallpapers to Explore

If you’re ready to embrace the movement, here are some luxury heritage wallpapers from my collection to consider:
Bloomsbury Moth Super Wide Wallpaper
Hemlock Wallpaper (available in 5 colourways)
Deadly Nightshade Wallpaper (available in 2 colourways)
Lords and Ladies Wallpaper (available in 3 colourways)

Each design offers something unique, whether you’re looking for a bold statement piece or a subtle nod to heritage style.

Ordering and Samples

Choosing wallpaper is an exciting process, but it can also feel overwhelming when it comes to measurements. Don’t worry, I’ve created a simple guide to calculating wallpaper so you can work out exactly how much you’ll need. And remember, you can always order samples before committing to a full roll.

If you’d like a little extra help or advice, feel free to email me directly at sales@aprilmawhinney.com. I’d love to help you bring your vision to life and being Irish, I love to chat!!

April x

 

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