Benefits of Using Wallpaper for Living Room Décor
- R Drummond And Son
- 2 days ago
- 14 min read
Why Sussex Homeowners Are Turning to Wallpaper for a Stylish, Lasting Finish
When it comes to transforming your living room, wallpaper is rapidly overtaking paint as the preferred choice for many Sussex homeowners. Once considered old-fashioned or difficult to work with, today’s wallpaper options are stylish, practical, and incredibly versatile—offering textures, patterns, and finishes that paint simply can’t replicate.
Whether you live in a Victorian terrace in Worthing, a modern flat in Brighton & Hove, or a character cottage in Lancing or Shoreham, wallpaper gives you the ability to elevate your décor, enhance architectural features, and personalise your space with flair. And with the variety of materials now available—like vinyl, textured, washable, and peel-and-stick wallpapers—it’s easier than ever to find a solution that suits your lifestyle, your budget, and the unique character of your Sussex home.
Why Wallpaper Is Becoming So Popular in Sussex Living Rooms
Homeowners across West Sussex and East Sussex are increasingly choosing wallpaper for living room decorating projects because of its:
Design impact – With wallpaper, you can introduce bold patterns, natural motifs, vintage charm or contemporary edge, helping your living room stand out.
Durability – High-quality wallpaper lasts longer than standard paint, making it ideal for high-traffic areas like lounges and family spaces.
Improved installation options – With advances in wallpaper adhesives and strippable backing, installation and removal are now faster and cleaner than ever.
Visual texture – From embossed designs to fabric-look finishes, wallpaper adds richness and depth to any interior.
At R Drummond & Son, we’ve been providing expert painting and decorating services in Sussex since the mid-1980s, delivering precision workmanship and expert advice for over four decades. Our experienced team understands how to select, prepare, and hang wallpaper for a flawless finish that enhances your interior and stands the test of time.
We work in homes across the region, from Regency-era properties in Hove and family homes in Worthing and Goring-by-Sea, to rural cottages near the South Downs—and we tailor each wallpapering project to suit the space, light, and lifestyle needs of our clients.
A 2025 Guide for Sussex Homeowners
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the full list of benefits of using wallpaper for living room décor, with expert insight tailored to Sussex property types and design preferences. Whether you’re considering wallpaper for the first time or looking to update a tired lounge with a fresh focal point, this article will help you make an informed, confident decision.
1. Adds Instant Personality and Style to Any Space
One of the biggest advantages of wallpaper over paint is its ability to instantly transform a room with pattern, texture, and colour—elements that paint alone often can’t provide. For Sussex homeowners looking to make a striking design statement, wallpaper offers endless options to personalise your living room and inject real style.
A Wallpaper Style to Suit Every Sussex Home
Whether your property is a classic Sussex cottage in Lancing, a Victorian terrace in Worthing, or a contemporary apartment in Brighton & Hove, wallpaper allows you to customise your space in ways that truly reflect your personality and lifestyle. Here are some of the most popular wallpaper styles tailored for homes across Sussex:
Floral and Botanical Prints: Embrace the beauty of nature with delicate florals, leafy vines, and botanical motifs. These designs are perfect for traditional homes in West Sussex and create a warm, inviting atmosphere that complements period features like cornices, wooden beams, and fireplaces.
Geometric and Abstract Designs: For owners of modern flats or newly renovated Sussex homes—especially in Brighton’s vibrant city centre—geometric shapes, abstract lines, and bold colour blocks offer a contemporary, artistic edge that pairs well with minimalist furniture and open-plan layouts.
Textured Grasscloth and Linen-Style Finishes: Add subtle luxury and timeless elegance to your living room with wallpapers that mimic natural fibres. These textured finishes work beautifully in more formal lounges or dining areas across Sussex, giving your walls depth and tactile interest while maintaining a neutral palette.
Define the Mood of Your Living Room
Wallpaper doesn’t just cover walls—it sets the mood and atmosphere of your space. Depending on the design, you can create a variety of effects:
Calm and Serene: Soft botanical prints and muted tones bring tranquility, perfect for relaxing family rooms or peaceful reading nooks.
Rich and Dramatic: Deep jewel tones, velvet textures, and intricate patterns add luxury and depth for a sophisticated lounge or entertaining area.
Fresh and Contemporary: Crisp lines, bold colours, and playful abstracts give a modern vibe that’s perfect for Brighton’s dynamic urban homes.
Ready for Inspiration?
If you’re looking for ideas and examples of how wallpaper can breathe new life into your living room, check out our Gallery of Finished Rooms to see recent projects completed by R Drummond & Son across Sussex. From striking feature walls to fully papered rooms, our portfolio showcases how wallpaper can be used to enhance every style and space.
2. Offers Exceptional Durability in High-Traffic Areas
The living room is often the heart of the home—a space where family life unfolds, guests are entertained, and everyday activities take place. Given this high level of use, your living room walls need to be both beautiful and durable. This is where wallpaper truly shines as a practical choice for Sussex homeowners.
Long-Lasting Finish That Stands Up to Daily Life
While paint can chip, peel, or fade—especially in busy households—modern wallpaper is engineered to provide a robust, long-lasting finish that can stay looking fresh for 10 to 15 years or more. This makes wallpaper not just a design choice but a smart investment in your home’s upkeep.
Why Wallpaper Works Better in High-Traffic Sussex Homes
Advances in wallpaper technology mean today’s products offer features that help maintain their appearance even under constant use:
Scratch-Resistant Coatings: Many wallpapers come with durable surfaces that resist marks and scuffs. This is ideal for family homes in Sussex, where children’s activities or pets might otherwise damage walls.
Washable and Wipeable Surfaces: Unlike many paints, high-quality wallpapers are designed to be cleaned easily without losing colour or texture. This is especially useful in living rooms, where spills and fingerprints are common.
Fade-Resistant Materials: Sussex homes benefit from plenty of natural sunlight, which can cause paint colours to fade unevenly over time. Modern wallpapers are manufactured to be more resistant to UV damage, ensuring your living room’s vibrant design lasts longer.
Low Maintenance for Peace of Mind
Choosing wallpaper can reduce the need for frequent repainting or touch-ups, saving you time and hassle. At R Drummond & Son, we recommend durable wallpapers for busy Sussex households who want stylish interiors without constant upkeep.
For expert advice on wallpaper durability or to explore our Interior Painting Services, get in touch with our team. We help Sussex homeowners select the right products for their lifestyle and ensure a flawless installation every time.
3. Creates a Luxurious, Layered Look with Depth and Texture
When it comes to elevating your living room’s aesthetic, wallpaper offers more than just colour—it introduces rich texture and tactile depth that paint simply cannot match. This layered effect brings warmth and sophistication, transforming even the simplest room into a luxurious retreat.
Why Texture Matters in Sussex Living Rooms
Sussex homes, especially those with period features, high ceilings, or original coving, are perfect candidates for textured wallpaper. The interplay between light and shadow on textured surfaces accentuates architectural details, highlighting the craftsmanship and charm of your property.
Popular Wallpaper Textures to Consider
At R Drummond & Son, we offer a wide range of textured wallpapers that can add a stunning dimension to your living room décor:
Silk-Effect Vinyl: This finish reflects light softly, creating an elegant sheen that’s perfect for formal living rooms or dining areas in Sussex’s classic homes.
Grasscloth: Made from natural fibres, grasscloth wallpaper brings an organic, understated texture that complements coastal properties around Worthing and Brighton. Its earthy look helps bridge indoor spaces with the natural beauty outside.
Flocked Designs: Featuring a raised, velvety texture, flocked wallpaper adds vintage-inspired softness and depth. This style works beautifully in period cottages or more traditional Sussex residences.
3D-Effect Patterns: For a contemporary twist, 3D wallpapers create optical illusions and geometric effects that add modern drama and visual interest—ideal for city flats and renovated homes in Brighton & Hove.
Layering Style with Architectural Features
Textured wallpaper is especially effective when applied to rooms with distinctive features such as ceiling roses, cornices, and fireplaces. It enhances these elements, drawing the eye and creating a harmonious, layered look that celebrates your home’s unique character.
If you’re ready to add texture and luxury to your Sussex living room, our expert decorators at R Drummond & Son are here to help. We provide tailored wallpaper installation services that bring out the best in your home’s architecture while ensuring a flawless, long-lasting finish.
Explore our Interior Decorating Services or contact us for a free consultation and colour match advice.
4. Conceals Surface Imperfections More Effectively Than Paint
One of the biggest challenges in decorating older Sussex homes is dealing with wall imperfections. Whether it’s small cracks, uneven plaster, or patches from previous repairs, these flaws can detract from your living room’s overall look—especially when painted.
Why Wallpaper Is a Superior Solution for Sussex Properties
Many homes across Worthing, Brighton & Hove, Lancing, and wider Sussex feature traditional lath-and-plaster walls or older brickwork that naturally develops imperfections over time. While paint highlights these issues, wallpaper provides a practical and aesthetic solution by concealing surface irregularities with ease.
How Wallpaper Hides Imperfections
Textured Wallpaper and Vinyl Finishes: These materials have built-in depth and pattern that visually mask bumps, cracks, and uneven surfaces. Unlike flat paint, wallpaper’s texture distracts the eye from flaws.
Reduced Prep Work: For many walls with minor imperfections, extensive replastering or sanding isn’t necessary. Our experienced team at R Drummond & Son can prepare your walls properly—cleaning, filling, and smoothing where needed—to ensure your wallpaper adheres perfectly and looks flawless.
Cost-Effective Upgrade: Repairing and replastering old walls can be expensive and disruptive. Wallpaper offers a smart alternative that saves time, money, and hassle without compromising on style or quality.
Wallpaper Installation Expertise in Sussex
Wall preparation is crucial for a successful wallpaper finish. Our professional decorators have decades of experience working with Sussex homes of all ages and styles. We carefully assess each project to recommend the best wallpaper types and preparation methods tailored to your living room’s needs.
By choosing R Drummond & Son for your wallpaper installation, you benefit from:
Expert wall surface assessment and preparation
Use of premium adhesives and wallpaper suited to your home
Meticulous, bubble-free application for a perfect finish
If your Sussex home has wall imperfections that paint can’t hide, wallpaper is an excellent way to refresh your living room with a smooth, stylish finish that stands the test of time.
5. Ideal for Feature Walls and Zoning in Open-Plan Living Rooms
In many modern Sussex homes, especially in Worthing, Brighton & Hove, Lancing, and surrounding areas, open-plan living has become the norm. The seamless flow between living rooms, kitchens, and dining areas creates a spacious feel but can make defining different zones challenging. This is where wallpaper shines as a versatile design tool.
Create Impact with Accent and Feature Walls
Applying wallpaper to every wall isn’t always necessary—or desirable. Instead, a carefully chosen feature wall can add depth, drama, and personality without overwhelming the space. Here are popular ways Sussex homeowners are using wallpaper to make a statement:
Behind the Sofa: Transform a blank wall behind your sofa into a striking focal point with bold patterns or textured wallpaper. This instantly draws attention and anchors your living room seating area.
Around the Fireplace: Highlight original fireplaces, a beloved feature in many period Sussex homes, by framing them with wallpaper that complements their character. This adds warmth and elegance to the room.
In Reading Corners: Define cosy nooks by applying wallpaper with calming or whimsical patterns. This creates a distinct space for relaxation and adds visual interest.
Behind Shelving Units or Built-Ins: Add a boutique, layered look by wallpapering behind open shelving. This technique enhances the décor without permanent alterations.
Visual Zoning Without Walls
Wallpaper is an excellent alternative to physical dividers or structural changes in open-plan living areas. By visually differentiating zones with colour and pattern, you can create:
Defined dining spaces adjacent to the living area
A kitchen backsplash or breakfast nook with personality
Work-from-home corners or study areas subtly separated from relaxation zones
Benefits for Sussex Homes
Open-plan layouts are common in newer developments around Sussex towns and coastal areas, where maximising space and light is key.
Wallpaper provides a stylish, flexible way to enhance spatial organisation without losing the airy, open feel.
Unlike painting, wallpaper’s patterns and textures add richness and tactile contrast, making zones feel purposeful yet harmonious.
At R Drummond & Son, we specialise in helping Sussex homeowners make the most of their living spaces. From suggesting the perfect wallpaper designs for feature walls to expert installation that blends beautifully with your existing décor, we’re your trusted local partners.
Ready to redefine your living room with wallpaper that works for your lifestyle and space? Contact us today for a consultation or explore our Gallery of Living Room Ideas for inspiration.
6. Available in Thousands of Designs to Match Any Style
One of the biggest advantages of wallpaper over paint is its incredible variety. Whether your Sussex home boasts a sleek modern flat in Brighton & Hove, a charming period property in Worthing, or a cosy coastal retreat near Lancing, there is a wallpaper design to perfectly complement your style and personality.
Wallpaper Styles Trending in 2025
The wallpaper market has never been more diverse, with new patterns, textures, and finishes launched regularly. Here are some of the most popular styles Sussex homeowners are embracing this year:
Muted Botanical Prints
Soft greens, delicate leaves, and subtle floral motifs bring a sense of calm and connection to nature. These wallpapers are perfect for bedrooms, living rooms, and spaces where tranquillity is key.
Oversized Florals
Bold, large-scale floral patterns create dramatic statement walls in traditional homes, especially those with classic Sussex architectural features like sash windows and ornate cornicing.
Tropical Palms and Jungle Motifs
For creative, playful homeowners who want to infuse their living rooms with vibrancy and personality, tropical and jungle-inspired wallpapers add an exotic flair without needing a full room makeover.
Concrete or Brick-Effect Wallpapers
Ideal for contemporary or industrial-style interiors, these textured wallpapers mimic raw materials, adding an urban edge and tactile interest without the cost or mess of actual brickwork or concrete.
Art Deco Geometrics
With a nod to the elegance of the 1920s and 30s, geometric patterns in metallic tones or rich colours suit renovated Sussex cottages or townhouses seeking a touch of timeless glamour.
Bespoke Wallpaper Selection and Expert Application in Sussex
At R Drummond & Son, we understand how overwhelming wallpaper options can be given the sheer volume of designs available. That’s why we assist our clients across Sussex in sourcing wallpapers from trusted UK brands known for quality and style.
We take the time to match your wallpaper choice with your home’s architecture, interior décor, and your personal taste. Plus, our expert decorators ensure flawless application, so your wallpaper not only looks stunning but lasts for years to come.
No matter your preferred style—from minimalist Scandinavian looks to richly patterned vintage designs—we have the knowledge and skill to bring your vision to life.
Ready to explore wallpaper designs that will transform your Sussex living room? Reach out today for a consultation or browse our portfolio of wallpaper installations across Worthing, Brighton & Hove, Lancing, and beyond.
7. Easily Replaceable When It’s Time for a Refresh
One of the great benefits of modern wallpaper is how straightforward it is to update your living room décor when your tastes change or you want to try a new look. Unlike older wallpapers that could be a nightmare to remove—damaging walls and requiring costly repairs—today’s wallpapers are designed with easy removal in mind.
Strippable Wallpapers for Hassle-Free Updates
Many wallpapers available in 2025 come with strippable adhesive technology. This means they can be peeled away cleanly without pulling off paint or plaster beneath. For Sussex homeowners, this offers several practical advantages:
Ideal for Landlords and Letting Properties
Change the look of your rental property quickly and affordably between tenants, keeping interiors fresh and appealing without extensive downtime.
Perfect for Developers and Renovators
Wallpaper can be a cost-effective finishing touch that can be swapped out easily during renovations or before selling a property, enhancing market appeal.
Stress-Free Homeowners’ Choice
If you’re the type who loves to redecorate regularly or want to keep up with evolving trends in Worthing, Brighton, or Lancing, removable wallpaper makes refreshing your space simple and pain-free.
Preparing Walls for Wallpaper Removal
At R Drummond & Son, we also advise on the best preparation and aftercare to ensure your walls remain in excellent condition after wallpaper removal. Our experienced decorators can assist with any minor repairs or repainting necessary, leaving your Sussex home ready for the next design chapter.
In short, choosing wallpaper is not just about today’s style—it’s an investment in flexible, adaptable living room décor that can grow with your changing tastes and lifestyle.
8. Cost-Effective with Professional Installation
At first glance, wallpaper might seem like a bigger upfront investment compared to a simple paint job. However, when you consider its exceptional durability, unique design impact, and minimal maintenance requirements, wallpaper often delivers superior value for money over time.
Why Wallpaper is a Smart Financial Choice for Sussex Homes
Longevity Means Fewer Replacements
High-quality wallpaper can last 10 to 15 years or more, significantly reducing the need for frequent repainting or patch repairs. This durability translates into cost savings on materials and labour in the long run.
Less Frequent Maintenance
Unlike paint, which can chip, fade, or require touch-ups—especially in busy living rooms or sunny Sussex homes—wallpaper’s resilience means fewer ongoing expenses.
Enhances Property Value
Stylish, well-installed wallpaper can boost the perceived value of your home. Beautiful interiors appeal to potential buyers or tenants, making it a smart investment whether you’re selling or renting out your Worthing or Brighton property.
The Importance of Professional Installation
Proper wallpaper installation is key to maximising your investment. When you hire experienced professionals like R Drummond & Son, you’re assured:
Flawless, Bubble-Free Finish
Our skilled decorators use proven techniques and tools to avoid air bubbles, wrinkles, and misalignments.
Expert Pattern Matching and Seam Alignment
Matching patterns perfectly along seams is an art. We ensure continuous designs that look seamless and polished.
Long-Lasting Adhesion Even in Challenging Conditions
Whether your living room faces Sussex’s coastal humidity or a busy family environment, we apply the right adhesives and preparation to guarantee the wallpaper stays put for years.
Ready to Transform Your Sussex Living Room?
If you’re considering wallpaper for your Sussex home’s living room décor, professional installation makes all the difference. Contact R Drummond & Son today for a free, no-obligation quote and expert advice tailored to your property’s needs.
Why Choose R Drummond & Son for Wallpapering in Sussex?
We’ve built our reputation on quality, reliability, and craftsmanship. Whether you want to wallpaper a single feature wall or redesign your entire living room, we bring decades of experience and local insight.
✔ Fully insured & health & safety compliant
✔ Serving homes across Worthing, Brighton & Hove, and West Sussex
✔ Careful wall preparation for a long-lasting result
✔ Trusted by hundreds of Sussex homeowners since the 1980s
✔ Friendly, tidy, and respectful of your home
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Get a Quote for Living Room Wallpaper Installation in Sussex
Whether you live in a Brighton townhouse, a Lancing bungalow, or a countryside home in West Sussex, wallpaper can be the finishing touch that transforms your living room. Let the experts at R Drummond & Son bring your design ideas to life with precision and care.
📞 Call us today on 07771 884507📧 Email us at info@rdrummondandson.co.uk🗓️ Or request your free quote online
Frequently Asked Questions About Wallpaper for Living Rooms
Q: Is wallpaper suitable for older homes with uneven walls?
A: Absolutely. Many Sussex homes—especially charming older properties in Worthing and Brighton—have walls with natural imperfections like cracks or uneven plaster. Textured wallpapers, vinyl finishes, and grasscloth styles are excellent for disguising these flaws. Our expert decorators carefully assess and prepare your walls to ensure a smooth, flawless application every time.
Q: How long does wallpaper last compared to paint?
A: High-quality wallpaper is designed to be a long-term solution, typically lasting between 10 and 15 years, often outliving traditional paint finishes. It resists chipping, fading, and everyday wear and tear better than paint, especially in busy living rooms or homes exposed to Sussex’s bright coastal sunlight.
Q: Can I combine wallpaper and paint in the same room?
A: Definitely! Combining wallpaper with paint is a popular trend among Sussex homeowners. Using wallpaper on a feature or accent wall, paired with complementary paint colours on the remaining walls, creates depth and interest without overwhelming the space. Our team offers personalised colour consultations to help you select the perfect combination for a harmonious and stylish living room.
Q: How much does wallpapering a living room cost?
A: The cost varies depending on factors such as room size, wallpaper material and design, and the condition of your walls. At R Drummond & Son, we provide free, no-obligation quotes tailored to your specific project, ensuring transparent pricing and no surprises. Contact us today to discuss your living room makeover.
Wrapping Up: Why Wallpaper Is the Smart Choice for Your Sussex Living Room in 2025
Wallpaper isn’t just a trend — it’s a versatile, durable, and stylish solution that can transform your living room into a space you’ll love for years to come. From concealing imperfections to creating striking feature walls, and from offering endless design options to providing long-term value, wallpaper checks all the boxes for modern Sussex homeowners looking to refresh their interiors with impact and ease.
At R Drummond & Son, we bring decades of local expertise to every project, ensuring your wallpaper is expertly chosen and flawlessly installed. Whether you’re in Worthing, Brighton & Hove, Lancing, or elsewhere in Sussex, we’re here to help you bring your vision to life.
Ready to upgrade your living room décor with wallpaper? Contact us today for a free consultation and let’s create a space that’s uniquely yours.
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