How to Style Checkered Wallpaper Like a Pro

When choosing your checkered wallpaper, start by thinking about which type of check will suit your space, and the mood you want to create. Each type of checkered pattern will bring its own personality to the room. Gingham offers a playful, nostalgic charm that instantly uplifts a space, while tartan and plaid wallpaper exude a cozy, heritage-inspired warmth that’s perfect for more traditional interiors.

Beyond the pattern itself, the scale of the print plays a big role in how the wallpaper transforms your room. In smaller spaces like cloakrooms, hallways, or reading nooks, a fine gingham or tight plaid adds texture and depth without overwhelming. But in larger, open-plan areas, don’t be afraid to go bold, oversized checks can make a striking visual statement, whether you’re wrapping all four walls or creating a standout feature wall.

When decorating with checkered wallpaper, getting the color palette right makes all the difference. The right tones enhance the pattern, creating a balanced, intentional space that feels stylish rather than busy.

If your wallpaper features classic black and white checks, try pairing it with earthy neutrals like sand, oat, or clay for a refined, modern look. These tones help soften the graphic edge of the pattern while keeping the overall feel crisp and elevated. Preppy checkered wallpaper in pastels or brighter shades works best with soft, complementary colors. Blush, powder blue, and creamy whites bring a fresh, breezy vibe that feels both fun and sophisticated, ideal for kids’ rooms, bathrooms, or anywhere you want a light, uplifting feel.

If your style leans more maximalist, contrasting colors can create bold spaces full of personality. Think mustard yellow plaid wallpaper, like our Woven design, paired with rich wood furniture, or pink gingham wallpaper with sage green furnishings. The contrast adds energy and depth, but keeping surrounding elements tonal or matte helps the space stay cohesive.

With the right balance of furniture, color, and texture, checkered wallpaper becomes more than just a feature, it sets the tone for the entire space. Whether you're going bold and expressive, soft and subtle, or leaning into timeless sophistication, it's all about how you bring the design elements together.

For a contemporary look, keep things clean and understated to let the wallpaper take the spotlight. Choose streamlined furniture with sleek lines, sculptural lighting, and minimal accessories to create a refined, open feel. Layer in natural textures like linen, boucle, or pale wood to soften the overall look. A black-and-white or neutral plaid wallpaper print feels especially fresh and modern with this interior design style.

If you prefer the mid-century modern look, gingham or tartan check wallpaper are the perfect choice. Think low-profile walnut furniture, warm leather tones, and vintage-inspired shapes. Mustard yellow, olive green, or rust-toned wallpaper, like our Wobble design, pairs perfectly with this retro color palette, adding warmth and character without feeling dated.

Maximalist interiors embrace color, personality, and layering, so don’t hold back. Use your wallpaper as a starting point, then build with rich fabrics, patterned cushions, and standout decor. You can mix in florals, stripes, or even animal prints, just keep your color palette unified to avoid visual overload. Velvet upholstery, ornate mirrors, and curated vintage pieces bring the look together with intention. Our maximalist interior design guide offers more tips on how to bring dopamine decor to your home.

Checkered wallpaper can even suit minimalist homes, especially when chosen in soft, muted tones. A gentle watercolor gingham wallpaper in sage, blush, or neutral beige hues adds just enough texture without overwhelming the room, as can be seen in our popular Linen wallpaper. Style it with natural oak furniture, linen curtains, and tactile ceramics to strike the perfect balance between structure and calm. This approach works beautifully in serene bedrooms or nurseries, blending simplicity with tradition in a modern way.

Checkered wallpaper doesn’t have to be just for feature walls, it can bring texture, character, and charm to every corner of the home. But don’t feel limited to applying checkered wallpaper to just your main walls. Consider using overlooked spaces such as inside shelving units, beneath the stairs, or even on the fronts of furniture with our peel and stick option! Whether you’re going bold in the living room or keeping it soft in the nursery, our designers have pulled together their favorite tips for styling checkered wallpaper in different spaces around the home.

Checkered wallpaper can take your bedroom from simple to standout. Wrap all four walls in a soft, tonal plaid for a cozy, cocooning retreat, or go bold with a single accent wall behind the headboard. Add warmth and texture with layered textiles - quilts, throws, and a cushioned bench at the foot of the bed all echo the inviting feel of the pattern.

Flexible and full of charm, plaid peel and stick wallpaper is a perfect choice for kitchens. Use it as a pop of pattern above a tiled backsplash or line open shelving to make the most of unused wall space. Gingham wallpaper in soft hues creates a farmhouse feel, while black and white checks prints will add a graphic edge. Keep the rest of the space natural and unfussy with wood accents, brushed metals, and potted herbs.

In the living room, checkered wallpaper can bring structure and style without overpowering the space. A checkered feature wall behind a fireplace or TV unit offers subtle sophistication. Pair it with velvet seating, clean-lined tables, and warm ambient lighting to strike the perfect balance between cozy and elevated.

Make a statement in your dining area with wallpaper that sparks conversation. Black and white checkerboard adds drama and contrast, especially when teamed with classic dining chairs and a bold light fixture. Prefer a softer touch? Pastel plaid sets a relaxed tone when paired with vintage-inspired accessories and whitewashed wood.

Checks are a fresh, design-forward choice for nurseries. Preppy patterns in blush, sage, or powder blue add gentle movement to the walls without overwhelming the room. Pair with soft fabrics, wooden toys, and filtered light for a peaceful space that still feels playful.

For children’s bedrooms and playrooms, checkered wallpaper can add energy without chaos. Think butter yellow gingham or a fun rainbow check, like our Rollerball Grid wallpaper design. Combined with colorful storage, cozy rugs, and bedding that can evolve as their style changes, it’s a fun and flexible foundation.

Checkered wallpaper isn’t just a trend, it’s a design statement that lasts. From nostalgic gingham to bold plaid, this pattern invites creativity and confidence at every turn. Whether you’re styling a cozy nook or transforming an entire room, decorating with checkered wallpaper is your chance to mix timeless charm with modern personality.

Ready to find the perfect pattern for your space? Explore our full range of aesthetic and preppy checkered wallpapers, and discover how easy it is to bring this iconic pattern into your home.