Laura Ashley Striped Wallpaper

Discovering How Stripes Can Elevate Your Home’s Style While Maintaining Classic Charm

When I first decided to redecorate my living room last spring, I found myself drawn to patterns that could bring both character and versatility to my walls. After weeks of browsing endless options, I stumbled upon Laura Ashley’s striped wallpaper collection – and honestly, it was love at first sight. The elegant simplicity, the quality craftsmanship, and the way those perfectly aligned stripes could transform an ordinary space into something extraordinary convinced me that Laura Ashley striped wallpaper is the perfect balance between classic design and contemporary appeal.

That’s why I’m sharing everything I’ve learned about these beautiful wall coverings – from where to purchase them to installation tips and styling ideas. Whether you’re a seasoned interior decorator or a first-time wallpaper user, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the wonderful world of Laura Ashley stripes with confidence.

Where to Find Your Perfect Laura Ashley Striped Wallpaper

Finding the perfect Laura Ashley striped wallpaper isn’t as straightforward as it once was. After the brand underwent changes in recent years, their distribution network evolved too. Thankfully, there are still plenty of reliable sources where you can browse and purchase these timeless designs.

My personal favorite shopping experience came from visiting dedicated home décor retailers. Stores like John Lewis, Next Home, and Homebase in the UK often carry extensive Laura Ashley collections. What I appreciated most was the ability to see sample books in person – there’s something about touching the actual wallpaper that digital images simply can’t convey.

For those who prefer online shopping (which, let’s be honest, is most of us these days), the official Laura Ashley website remains the most comprehensive source. They frequently update their inventory and offer exclusive colorways you won’t find elsewhere. I’ve also had success with specialty wallpaper websites like Wallpaper Direct and Graham & Brown, which typically stock a good selection of Laura Ashley patterns.

Don’t overlook department stores either. When I was hunting for the perfect pale blue stripe for my guest bedroom, I was surprised to find exactly what I needed at Debenhams. Their home department had several Laura Ashley display books, and the sales associate was incredibly knowledgeable about the different finishes available.

If you’re hunting for discontinued patterns or vintage Laura Ashley designs, online marketplaces like eBay and Etsy can be treasure troves. Just last month, I discovered a seller offering unused rolls of a discontinued sage green stripe that perfectly matched my dining room curtains – sometimes patience and persistence really do pay off!

Color Combinations That Speak to Your Style

One thing that truly sets Laura Ashley striped wallpaper apart is the sophisticated color palette. Rather than harsh, contrasting stripes that can overwhelm a space, Laura Ashley offers nuanced combinations that create depth without domination.

The neutral collection has been my go-to recommendation for friends who are new to wallpaper. The soft beige and cream combinations provide subtle texture without overwhelming a room. I used the “Eaton Stripe” in my entryway, and visitors always comment on how it makes the space feel both elegant and welcoming.

For those seeking more color, the blue and green striped options are particularly stunning. From delicate duck egg blue paired with cream to bolder navy and white combinations, these cool-toned options create a fresh, often coastal atmosphere. The “Keswick Stripe” in sage green transformed my home office from a forgettable box into a serene workspace that I actually enjoy spending time in.

Don’t overlook the warmer palette options either. The soft pink and cream stripes work beautifully in bedrooms, while the more dramatic burgundy and gold combinations can add a touch of luxury to dining rooms or studies. What I particularly appreciate is how the colors have depth – they’re never flat or one-dimensional, even in the simpler designs.

For those who prefer subtle texture, the tone-on-tone striped options deserve special mention. These use variations in sheen and texture rather than contrasting colors to create their striped effect. The “Harrington Stripe” in silver was my mother’s choice for her powder room, and the way it catches the light at different times of day creates an almost magical effect.

Bridging Traditional and Modern Design Worlds

One question I’m frequently asked is whether Laura Ashley striped wallpaper works in contemporary homes or if it’s strictly for traditional interiors. Having seen these wallpapers in everything from Victorian terraces to ultra-modern apartments, I can confidently say that Laura Ashley stripes possess a remarkable ability to adapt to virtually any design aesthetic.

In more traditional settings, the classic stripes reinforce architectural details and period features. When my friend Sarah used the “Belvedere Stripe” in her 1930s semi-detached home, it perfectly complemented the original woodwork and created a seamless connection with the home’s heritage.

But what surprised me most was how beautifully these same patterns work in contemporary settings. The key is in how you pair them with other elements. In my own minimalist living room, the contrast between clean-lined modern furniture and the subtle texture of Laura Ashley striped wallpaper creates an interesting visual dialogue. The stripes add warmth and dimension without competing with the room’s modern elements.

For those embracing the popular transitional style, Laura Ashley stripes are practically made for you. They provide that perfect bridge between traditional pattern and contemporary application. I’ve seen stunning examples where homeowners used striped wallpaper on a single accent wall, pairing it with concrete finishes and industrial lighting for a look that’s completely unique.

The versatility extends to various room styles too. From country cottage charm to urban sophistication, these wallpapers adapt beautifully. In my sister’s rustic farmhouse kitchen, a blue ticking-style stripe looks perfectly at home alongside wooden beams and vintage accessories. Meanwhile, my colleague used the same pattern in her sleek city apartment, where it provides a thoughtful counterpoint to her otherwise contemporary space.

Understanding the Investment: Cost Considerations

Let’s talk about what’s often the deciding factor: price. Laura Ashley striped wallpaper typically ranges from $35 to $75 per roll, positioning it in the mid-to-upper range of the wallpaper market. While this isn’t the least expensive option available, my experience has taught me that the quality justifies the investment.

When I first balked at spending nearly $60 per roll for my dining room, my decorator friend Emma offered some perspective: “Think of it as art for your walls that you’ll enjoy every day for years.” She was right. Three years later, the paper looks as beautiful as the day it was hung, with no fading or peeling issues that I’ve experienced with budget options in the past.

It’s also worth noting that roll coverage varies between patterns. Standard Laura Ashley rolls typically cover about 56 square feet, but always check the specific pattern you’re considering, as some specialty finishes may offer slightly different coverage. When calculating costs, remember to factor in pattern repeats (more on that later) which can affect how many rolls you’ll need.

For budget-conscious decorators, consider using the wallpaper strategically. A single accent wall requires far fewer rolls than covering an entire room. In my daughter’s bedroom, we used just two rolls to create a stunning feature wall behind her bed, which became the focal point of the entire room design.

Seasonal sales are another opportunity to save. I’ve found that home décor retailers often include Laura Ashley wallpaper in their spring and autumn sales, sometimes offering 20-30% discounts. The official Laura Ashley website also runs periodic promotions, and signing up for their newsletter can alert you to upcoming sales events.

Practical Considerations: Using Striped Wallpaper in Different Rooms

When I first fell in love with Laura Ashley striped wallpaper, I wondered if it would be practical for all areas of my home. After extensive research and personal experience, I’ve learned that different spaces have different requirements.

For high-moisture areas like bathrooms and kitchens, you’ll want to be selective. While not all Laura Ashley wallpapers are suitable for these environments, they do offer specific “washable” and “scrubbable” options that can withstand splashes and humidity. The “Awning Stripe” collection, for example, features a vinyl coating that makes it perfect for these challenging spaces. I installed this in my downstairs powder room two years ago, and despite the steam from hot showers, it continues to look pristine.

In high-traffic areas like hallways, durability becomes paramount. Here, I’d recommend the heavier-weight papers with vinyl coatings, as they stand up better to the occasional bump or scrape. When I wallpapered my narrow entrance hallway, the salesperson steered me toward the “Marlborough Stripe,” which has proven remarkably resilient against the daily comings and goings of my family.

For living spaces like bedrooms and dining rooms, you have more flexibility. These lower-traffic areas allow you to consider some of the more delicate finishes, including the beautiful textured options that might not be practical elsewhere. The subtle embossed stripe I chose for my master bedroom wouldn’t work in my kitchen, but in this quieter space, it creates a serene atmosphere that’s perfect for resting.

Children’s rooms present their own challenges. While my initial instinct was to avoid wallpaper entirely in my son’s room, the washable options proved to be surprisingly child-resistant. The key was choosing a darker color combination that doesn’t show every fingerprint or smudge. The navy and red stripe we selected has weathered five years of childhood enthusiasm remarkably well.

Exploring Textured Finishes and Dimensional Effects

One aspect of Laura Ashley striped wallpaper that often gets overlooked is the impressive range of textured finishes available. These add another dimension to the striped pattern and can dramatically affect how the wallpaper interacts with your space.

The embossed options create subtle raised patterns that catch the light in fascinating ways. In my dining room, I chose a cream-on-cream embossed stripe that looks completely different depending on the time of day. During bright afternoons, the raised pattern creates delicate shadows, while evening candlelight brings out a warm glow that flatters everyone at the table.

For those seeking more dramatic texture, the flocked varieties offer a tactile experience that’s almost impossible to resist touching. These velvety stripes add undeniable luxury to any space. My friend Claire used a flocked burgundy and gold stripe in her home library, creating an atmosphere of old-world elegance that perfectly complements her collection of leather-bound books.

Metallic accents represent another textural option worth considering. These typically feature subtle gold, silver, or copper elements within the striped pattern. I was initially hesitant about using these, fearing they might look dated, but the contemporary approach Laura Ashley takes with metallics is surprisingly modern. The “Langham Stripe” with its whisper of silver threading has transformed my guest bathroom into what visitors often describe as “quietly glamorous.”

Perhaps my favorite textural option is the grasscloth-inspired collection. These wallpapers mimic the natural fibers of traditional grasscloth but incorporate the precision of stripes. The result is a fascinating juxtaposition of organic texture and geometric pattern. While more expensive than standard options, the unique visual interest they create is, in my experience, well worth the investment.

Understanding Dimensions and Coverage

Getting the dimensions right is crucial for any wallpaper project. Standard Laura Ashley wallpaper rolls measure 20.5 inches wide by 33 feet long, covering approximately 56 square feet. However, this figure doesn’t account for pattern matching or wastage, so you’ll need to adjust your calculations accordingly.

When I was planning my living room project, I made the rookie mistake of simply measuring the wall area and dividing by the roll coverage. What I failed to consider was the pattern repeat – the vertical distance before the pattern starts over again. For striped patterns, this repeat distance varies considerably. Some small-scale stripes might have a repeat of just a couple of inches, while grander designs can have repeats of 25 inches or more.

To accurately calculate your needs, you’ll need to know:

• The total square footage of your walls
• The pattern repeat of your chosen design
• The width of the wallpaper
• Any obstacles like doors and windows

Rather than attempting these calculations myself for subsequent projects, I’ve found that most reputable wallpaper retailers offer free calculation services. You simply provide your room measurements, and they’ll tell you exactly how many rolls you need. The Laura Ashley website itself has a particularly user-friendly calculator that accounts for their specific roll dimensions and pattern repeats.

One tip I wish I’d known earlier: always buy an extra roll beyond what you calculate you’ll need. Not only does this provide insurance against calculation errors, but it gives you material for future repairs if needed. All wallpaper has batch numbers, and colors can vary slightly between production runs, making it difficult to match papers purchased years apart.

Installation Options: Traditional vs. Modern Application Methods

When it comes to installing your Laura Ashley striped wallpaper, you have several options, each with its own advantages and challenges.

Traditional paste-the-paper methods remain available for most Laura Ashley patterns. This technique involves applying adhesive directly to the wallpaper before hanging. While slightly more time-consuming, I’ve found this method gives you more working time to position the paper precisely – particularly important when matching stripe patterns. When I tackled my first striped wallpaper project in the dining room, this extra adjustment time proved invaluable for ensuring perfectly aligned stripes.

The more modern paste-the-wall technique is available for many (though not all) Laura Ashley wallpapers. This approach simplifies the process considerably, as you apply paste directly to the wall rather than to the paper. The paper remains dry until it contacts the adhesive, making it easier to handle, especially for beginners. When I helped my daughter install striped wallpaper in her first apartment, we opted for a paste-the-wall variety, which made the process much less intimidating for her.

For those seeking maximum convenience, some Laura Ashley designs come in peel-and-stick versions. These self-adhesive options eliminate messy paste altogether and can be repositioned during installation. While typically more expensive, they’re ideal for renters or those wanting the flexibility to change their minds. I used this type in my home office, knowing I tend to redecorate this space more frequently than other rooms.

Regardless of which method you choose, striped wallpaper demands precision in hanging. Unlike some patterns that can forgive slight misalignments, stripes immediately reveal any deviation from plumb. For my first striped wallpaper project, I invested in a laser level, which proved indispensable for achieving perfectly vertical stripes.

Coordinating with Paint, Fabrics, and Other Design Elements

One of the strengths of Laura Ashley striped wallpaper is how seamlessly it integrates with other design elements. Creating a cohesive look involves careful coordination with your existing or planned color scheme.

Many Laura Ashley wallpaper patterns have matching or complementary paint colors available. When I was struggling to find the perfect shade of blue for my woodwork to complement the “Eaton Stripe” wallpaper, I discovered that Laura Ashley offers color-matched paints specifically designed to coordinate with their wallpaper collections. This takes the guesswork out of creating a harmonious scheme.

Fabric coordination is another area where Laura Ashley excels. Many of their striped wallpapers have companion fabrics – sometimes in the identical pattern, other times in complementary designs. In my guest bedroom, I paired a subtle blue stripe wallpaper with curtains in a matching floral pattern from the same collection. The shared color palette created a thoughtful connection between different elements of the room.

When coordinating with furniture, I’ve found that striped wallpaper works best when it doesn’t compete with other strong patterns. In rooms with patterned upholstery or rugs, consider one of the more subtle tone-on-tone striped options. Conversely, if your furniture is primarily solid colors, you can confidently choose a more pronounced stripe. My living room features a bold navy and cream stripe that provides a perfect backdrop for my solid-colored sofas and chairs.

Lighting fixtures offer another opportunity for coordination. In my hallway, I selected brass wall sconces that pick up the warm gold accents in the striped wallpaper. The metallic elements create points of connection throughout the space, lending a sense of intentional design even in this transitional area.

The Visual Impact: How Stripes Affect Spatial Perception

One of the most fascinating aspects of striped wallpaper is its ability to visually alter a space. Understanding these effects can help you use stripes strategically to address specific architectural challenges.

Vertical stripes, which dominate the Laura Ashley collection, tend to draw the eye upward, creating the perception of higher ceilings. When I installed vertical stripes in my living room with its standard 8-foot ceiling, visitors often comment that the room feels much loftier than it actually is. This effect is particularly pronounced with narrower stripes in lighter colors.

The width of stripes significantly impacts their visual effect. Wider stripes create bold statements and work well in larger rooms that can handle their visual weight. In my spacious main bedroom, I chose a wider striped pattern that holds its own against the room’s generous proportions. In contrast, narrower stripes create more subtle texture and are ideal for smaller spaces. The delicate pinstripe I selected for my compact home office adds interest without overwhelming the limited wall area.

Color contrast between stripes also affects perception. High-contrast combinations (like navy and white) create more dramatic visual impact and can make a space feel more energetic. For my teenage son’s room, we chose a high-contrast stripe that reflects his vibrant personality. Lower-contrast options (such as cream and beige) create a more subtle, sophisticated look. The tone-on-tone stripe in my dining room provides elegant texture without competing with the room’s other design elements.

Perhaps most interestingly, the orientation of stripes can counteract architectural challenges. In my oddly proportioned study – a long, narrow room – I used horizontal stripes on the shorter end walls to visually widen the space. Combined with vertical stripes on the longer walls, this created a much more balanced room proportion.

Pairing Stripes with Other Patterns: Design Harmony

Many decorators shy away from mixing patterns, but with the right approach, striped wallpaper can harmoniously coexist with other designs. The key lies in understanding pattern scale and finding common color threads.

When combining striped wallpaper with floral patterns (a Laura Ashley specialty), consider the scale of each design. In my guest bedroom, I paired a small-scale blue stripe wallpaper with curtains featuring larger floral motifs. The difference in scale prevents the patterns from competing, while the shared blue colorway creates cohesion.

Geometric patterns can also work beautifully alongside stripes. In my son’s bedroom, we combined striped wallpaper with a chevron-patterned rug. The key to making this combination successful was maintaining a consistent color palette – both patterns share the same navy blue, creating a visual connection despite their different geometries.

For those less confident in pattern mixing, consider using stripes in one room and a complementary pattern in an adjacent space. My striped hallway flows into a living room featuring a subtle damask wallpaper. Because both papers share the same warm neutral palette, the transition feels intentional rather than jarring.

Another approach is to use striped wallpaper on a single accent wall, with coordinating patterns introduced through textiles and accessories. In my powder room, one wall features a bold striped pattern, while towels and a small stool incorporate complementary floral designs. This creates interest without overwhelming the small space.

When mixing patterns, remember that solid colors provide necessary visual rest. In my pattern-rich living room, plain-colored larger furniture pieces provide breaks between the striped wallpaper and patterned cushions and throws. These solid elements allow the eye to rest, preventing pattern fatigue.

Real-World Experiences: Customer Reviews and Longevity

Before committing to any wallpaper, I always research user experiences, and Laura Ashley striped wallpaper consistently earns positive reviews for both aesthetics and durability.

Fade resistance is particularly important for wallpaper, especially in sunny rooms. After four years, the Laura Ashley striped wallpaper in my south-facing conservatory shows remarkably little fading, despite daily exposure to direct sunlight. Many online reviewers report similar experiences, with colors maintaining their vibrancy for years. This longevity makes the initial investment much easier to justify.

Cleaning performance also receives consistently positive feedback. The washable varieties truly live up to their name – when my nephew created an artistic masterpiece on my hallway wall with colored markers, I was able to gently clean the wallpaper without damaging either the pattern or the finish. Many parents in review forums specifically recommend Laura Ashley’s washable options for family homes.

Installation experiences vary somewhat, with most reviewers finding the papers neither exceptionally easy nor difficult to hang. Several noted that the heavier weight of Laura Ashley papers makes them more forgiving for amateur installers, as they’re less likely to crease or tear during handling. That said, the precision required for matching stripes means that many people still prefer professional installation.

Long-term adherence is another strength mentioned in reviews. Unlike some wallpapers that begin to lift at the seams after a few years, Laura Ashley papers typically maintain their bond with the wall. The dining room wallpaper I installed five years ago shows no signs of lifting or peeling, despite the temperature and humidity fluctuations common in this space.

Creative Applications Beyond the Obvious

While most people think of wallpaper as solely for walls, Laura Ashley striped patterns lend themselves to numerous creative applications throughout the home.

Ceiling application represents one of my favorite unexpected uses. In my daughter’s bedroom, we extended her subtle pink striped wallpaper onto the ceiling, creating a charming tent-like effect that she adores. This approach works particularly well with lighter-colored stripes that don’t visually lower the ceiling height.

Furniture upcycling offers another creative outlet for wallpaper. I transformed a dated dresser by applying striped wallpaper to the drawer fronts, instantly modernizing the piece. The key to success was carefully matching the stripes across drawer fronts to create a seamless appearance. The durable finish of Laura Ashley wallpaper stands up remarkably well to this type of application.

Built-in shelving or cabinet interiors provide another opportunity for unexpected pattern. In my living room bookcase, I applied striped wallpaper to the back panels of the shelves, creating a sophisticated backdrop for books and decorative objects. This small touch adds significant visual interest to what would otherwise be a plain white bookcase.

For those hesitant to commit to permanent wallpaper, framed samples offer a flexible alternative. I created a gallery wall using various Laura Ashley striped samples in coordinating colors, framed simply in identical white frames. The result is surprisingly artistic and allows me to enjoy these beautiful patterns without papering entire walls.

Even leftover wallpaper scraps can find purpose. I’ve used them to line drawers, create custom gift wrap, and even cover notebook covers for personalized stationery. The quality of Laura Ashley paper makes it suitable for these craft applications, as it handles and folds beautifully without cracking.

Sustainable Choices: Eco-Friendly Options

As environmental awareness grows, many homeowners (myself included) prioritize sustainability in our decorating choices. Laura Ashley has responded to this concern with several eco-friendly wallpaper options.

Many of their newer striped patterns are printed using water-based inks, which contain fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs) than traditional solvent-based alternatives. When I redecorated my home office, I specifically sought out these low-VOC options, resulting in virtually no “new wallpaper smell” – a welcome change from previous decorating experiences.

The paper sourcing has also improved in recent years. Many Laura Ashley wallpapers now use paper from FSC-certified forests, ensuring responsible forest management. The packaging has been redesigned to minimize plastic use, with more recyclable materials incorporated throughout the supply chain.

For those seeking the most eco-friendly options, look for the specific “Eco” designation within the Laura Ashley collection. These papers feature recycled content, sustainable production methods, and environmentally responsible inks. While they typically command a slight premium in price, the environmental benefits justify the additional cost for environmentally conscious decorators.

It’s worth noting that wallpaper generally has a longer lifecycle than paint, often remaining in place for a decade or more before replacement. This longevity factor should be considered when evaluating the environmental impact of different wall covering options. The Laura Ashley striped wallpaper in my living room has lasted through what would have been multiple repainting cycles, representing a potentially lower environmental footprint over time.

Final Thoughts: Why Laura Ashley Stripes Continue to Endure

After exploring every aspect of Laura Ashley striped wallpaper – from practical considerations to design impact – I’m even more convinced of its enduring appeal. These aren’t just wall coverings; they’re design statements that somehow manage to be both timeless and fresh simultaneously.

What I appreciate most about these papers is their versatility. From creating a bold focal point to adding subtle background texture, from traditional settings to contemporary spaces, Laura Ashley stripes adapt to countless design visions. This adaptability explains why these patterns have remained relevant through decades of changing interior trends.

The quality craftsmanship also cannot be overstated. In our era of disposable decorating, these papers represent a return to products designed to last. The initial investment delivers years of enjoyment, with colors that remain true and finishes that withstand daily life.

Perhaps most importantly, Laura Ashley striped wallpaper transforms ordinary rooms into personalized spaces that reflect their owners’ taste and vision. Whether you’re drawn to bold statements or subtle elegance, whether your home is a modern apartment or a period property, there’s a Laura Ashley stripe waiting to become part of your personal design story.

My own journey with these wallpapers has reinforced what I believe about good design: it should be both beautiful and functional, timeless yet personal. Laura Ashley striped wallpaper embodies these qualities perfectly, which is why it continues to adorn walls in homes around the world – including mine.