Panoramic Wallpaper: Creating the Illusion of a Bigger Room

Panoramic wallpaper can be used to enhance the perception of space in a room by adding visual depth and expanding boundaries using designs that cover entire walls with the continuous imagery drawing the eye outward and creating the illusion of more distance. This effect tricks the mind into feeling that the environment is larger and more open.

One of the ways this is achieved is through the use of depth and perspective. Designs that showcase landscapes, cityscapes, or abstract gradients introduce a vanishing point, guiding the viewer’s gaze into the distance. This depth perception alleviates feelings of confinement, allowing even smaller rooms to feel more spacious.

Vertical imagery, such as trees or tall buildings, draws the eye upward, making ceilings seem higher. In contrast, horizontal landscapes visually expand the room, making it appear wider. Whether depicting a tranquil forest, an endless ocean, or an ombré effect, panoramic wallpaper can turn walls into expansive focal points that open up a space and elevate its overall atmosphere.

With so many options available, selecting the right panoramic wallpaper design comes down to personal choice. While vertical stripe wallpaper may be the obvious choice for making a room seem taller, large-scale wall murals in any design style can create a sense of openness that prevents walls from feeling segmented, and maintain a light, uncluttered aesthetic that enhances the perception of space.

Whether you are looking for a traditional landscape or modern abstract design, at Hovia, most of our wall murals are designed with side-repeating patterns, offering seamless flexibility to fit any space. Lets look at some of the most popular wallpaper design choices for wrapping around a room:

Expansive landscapes—whether rolling hills, coastal horizons, or dramatic city skylines—are perfect for opening up a room. These designs extend the visual perspective, making walls feel farther away. Scenic murals work especially well in living rooms and bedrooms, where they create a calming, airy ambiance that invites relaxation.

If you prefer a modern, open aesthetic, minimalist panoramic wallpapers in light, neutral hues can create a serene, expansive effect. Clean lines and soft gradients maintain a feeling of spaciousness. For a soft, understated look, opt for gentle watercolor washes, delicate botanicals, or cloud-like textures. These subtle designs enhance space perception without overpowering the room.

For those who embrace maximalist design principles, bold, large-scale motifs like oversized florals or abstract geometrics create a striking focal point while still drawing the eye outward. Or why not consider a large-scale scenic print in a softer color palette like our Sørupvang Hills Neutral mural, to add drama without overwhelming the space. The key to achieving balance is selecting a design that complements the room’s proportions and furnishings.

Color plays a crucial role in shaping our perception of space, affecting how open or confined a room feels. The right color choices can turn a small, enclosed area into a light, airy retreat, creating an illusion of depth. By using strategic color placement or gradient ombré wallpaper designs, you can trick the eye into perceiving more space than actually exists, making even the coziest rooms feel larger, brighter, and more inviting.

A well-lit room with light-colored walls tends to feel more open and breathable. Shades like soft whites, pastels, and pale neutrals are particularly effective at reflecting both natural and artificial light, brightening the space and creating a natural sense of expansion, making the room feel more spacious and welcoming.

On the other hand, dark colors can also enhance the illusion of space when used thoughtfully. Deep blues, charcoal grays, and forest greens can add depth and drama, while a mural depicting a dramatic landscape, like a misty mountain range such as our Woodlands mural, or an expansive sky like as seen in our Sunset Classic mural, can create the impression that walls extend beyond their physical boundaries, enhancing the room’s sense of scale rather than enclosing it.

Another way to create the illusion of more space is by using ombré wallpapers, as designs that transition smoothly from dark to light create a natural flow that draws the eye upward, making ceilings appear taller and walls seem farther away. Similarly, panoramic murals with soft gradients or distant horizon lines mimic the effect of natural light interacting with the sky, introducing a sense of openness. These gentle transitions prevent harsh visual breaks, ensuring that the room feels harmonious, expansive, and beautifully balanced.

Maximizing the illusion of space goes beyond selecting the perfect panoramic wallpaper, it’s about combining design elements that enhance openness and depth.

The type of furniture you choose can significantly impact how spacious a room feels, so avoid bulky, dark furniture that visually weighs down the space. Choose light-colored or reflective furniture to maintain a bright and airy feel such as glass, metallic, and mirrored surfaces that help bounce light around, reinforcing the sense of openness.

Soft, diffused lighting—such as wall sconces, floor lamps, or pendant lights with warm bulbs—creates a gentle, inviting glow that enhances both depth and openness. Avoid harsh overhead lighting, as it can create stark shadows and make a space feel confined. Instead, opt for recessed lighting or strategically placed LED strips to maintain a seamless, airy ambiance. Glossy or light-colored floors reflect light, reinforcing the sense of openness. Additionally, patterns like herringbone or diagonal layouts draw the eye outward, creating natural movement and making the space appear longer and more expansive.

Thoughtful decor choices can significantly enhance the illusion of openness, making your room feel more spacious and inviting. Opt for a clean, clutter-free aesthetic, and carefully consider your furniture layout—arrange pieces to maximize flow and avoid blocking natural sightlines. Choosing multi-functional or space-saving furniture, such as floating shelves, helps maintain an airy feel while ensuring every inch of your space is used effectively.

Catherine Jacob, Head of Design at Hovia has this advice:

“Choosing the right furniture and decor can complement the ability of panoramic wallpaper to visually expand a space. Select sleek, streamlined furniture and keep decorative accessories intentional and well-spaced. Keeping furniture off the floor with raised legs can also create a sense of openness by allowing more visible floor space. Lighting can also significantly influence the effect of panoramic wallpaper. Instead of relying on harsh overhead lights, use soft, diffused lighting to eliminate shadows and create an even glow. Natural light is even more effective, so consider window treatments that allow for natural light to flow through the room.”