Let’s talk about walls. Should you go with paint or wallpaper? If you’re someone who enjoys crafting a beautiful, intentional space, then you already know how powerful a wall treatment can be.
Both options bring their own kind of beauty. But in the Kenyan context, where climate, wall finishes, lifestyle, and budget all play a role, one might suit your needs better than the other.
Paint: The Classic Kenyan Staple
Paint is everywhere in most homes. It’s affordable, available in nearly every hardware store across the country, and relatively easy to apply with a skilled fundi.
It offers an incredible range of color options, from calming neutrals to rich earth tones, making it ideal for almost any design style. Beyond color, it gives you control over texture and finish.
For instance, a matte finish adds elegance and absorbs light, while a glossy one reflects it, making small spaces feel bigger. Thanks to weather-resistant and washable varieties, paint is practical everywhere.
So when does paint make the most sense? If you’re working with a limited budget, dealing with imperfect walls, living in a rental, or simply love to switch things up often, paint is your best friend.
Wallpaper: The Bold Newcomer
Once reserved for upscale homes, wallpaper is now a favorite among Nairobi’s modern decorators. It offers something paint can’t. The depth, texture, and personality.
From geometric prints to botanical patterns and even faux textures like brick or linen, wallpaper turns a wall into a conversation piece. It’s especially ideal for creating statement walls in spaces like dining rooms, home offices, or bedrooms.
With local brands like HomeLux Interiors, Odds & Ends, and a growing number of online decor shops, stylish and affordable wallpaper is more accessible than ever. It shines when you want to create a unique atmosphere and don’t plan to change your decor frequent.
However, it's not ideal for damp environments or busy areas. It might get scratched or torn, especially in homes with young kids or pets. It also requires more time and precision to install and remove.
So, Paint or Wallpaper?
The truth is, it depends on your lifestyle, your walls, and your vision. Paint is flexible, affordable, and easy to maintain, which makes it perfect for rentals and busy households.
Wallpaper, on the other hand, is all about the drama, style, and individuality. It’s not just a finish. It’s a design statement.
But, the best part is that you don’t have to choose just one. Some of the most stylish homes blend both. A room with neutral painted walls and one bold wallpapered section is absolutely stunning.
