Splurge vs Save Wallpaper Dupes: Designer Looks Without the Price Tag

Zaklan Harlow
wallpaper dupes image

Wallpaper has made a powerful comeback in UK interiors, becoming a favourite among homeowners and renters alike. But as with most design trends, not every beautiful wallpaper fits comfortably within your budget. Enter the world of “splurge vs save wallpaper dupes” — where you can recreate high-end looks for a fraction of the price. Whether you’re styling a statement wall or redoing an entire room, this guide will help you decide when to splurge and where to save with brilliant wallpaper dupes.

Splurge vs Save Wallpaper Dupes image
Src: https://www.blesserhouse.com/

🏠 Why Wallpaper Dupes Are Trending in UK Homes

Wallpaper dupes aren’t just about saving money — they’re about smart design. With the cost of living on the rise and more people working from home, UK homeowners are increasingly looking for cost-effective ways to elevate their space. Dupes offer similar colours, textures, and patterns to high-end wallpapers but without the premium price tag.

From Cole & Son-inspired prints to De Gournay-style chinoiserie, budget-friendly wallpaper options are now easily accessible at high street shops like B&Q, Dunelm, IKEA, and even online stores like I Love Wallpaper and Wallpaper Direct.

💸 Splurge vs Save: Popular Wallpaper Styles and Their Dupes

Here are some stunning splurge vs save wallpaper comparisons that are perfect for UK interiors:

1. Chinoiserie Garden Mural

  • Splurge: De Gournay ‘Earlham’ Collection – Hand-painted panels that can cost thousands per wall.
  • Save/Dupe: Dunelm “Floral Paradise” Mural or Lust Home “Secret Garden” Wallpaper
  • Why it’s a dupe: Soft pastel shades, oriental birds, and floral motifs mimic the luxury feel of chinoiserie but cost under £30 a roll.

2. Bold Geometric Design

  • Splurge: Cole & Son “Geometric II”
  • Save/Dupe: Graham & Brown “Geo Trellis” or Wilko “Art Deco” Wallpaper
  • Why it’s a dupe: Gold accents and angular shapes create a similar Art Deco style at a tenth of the price.
Bold Geometric Design
Src: https://www.wallpaperdirect.com/

3. Tropical Leaf Prints

  • Splurge: House of Hackney “Palmeral” Wallpaper – Around £195 per roll.
  • Save/Dupe: I Love Wallpaper “Jungle Leaf Green” – Approx. £15 per roll.
  • Why it’s a dupe: Vibrant, oversized green leaves give the same bold jungle vibes.

4. Marble Effect Wallpaper

  • Splurge: Calico “Aurora” Wallpaper – Bespoke and luxury-priced.
  • Save/Dupe: B&M or Wayfair “Marble Luxe” Wallpaper – Starting at £12 per roll.
  • Why it’s a dupe: Delivers the same opulent marble look at an accessible price.

5. Panelling Effect

  • Splurge: Wood veneer or bespoke MDF panelling with wallpaper backing.
  • Save/Dupe: Dunelm or Homebase “Wood Panel Effect” Wallpaper
  • Why it’s a dupe: Visual texture of real wood panelling, without the carpentry cost or commitment.

🛒 Where to Buy Wallpaper Dupes in the UK

Whether you’re on a tight budget or just love a good bargain, these UK shops offer fantastic wallpaper dupes:

Wallpaper Dupes image
Src: https://www.blesserhouse.com/
  • Dunelm – Affordable luxury-look wallpaper ranges.
  • B&M & Wilko – Surprisingly stylish and inexpensive options.
  • Homebase & B&Q – Good quality basics and design-led prints.
  • Wallpaperdirect.co.uk – Wide range of both designer and budget brands.
  • Lust Home & I Love Wallpaper – Trend-led and affordable dupes for modern homes.

🎨 Style Tips: Mixing Splurge and Save for Best Results

Designers often recommend mixing high and low elements for balance. Here’s how to do it with wallpaper:

✔ Accent Wall Strategy

Use your splurge wallpaper on a single feature wall (e.g. behind a bed or in a hallway), and pair with a dupe or painted walls elsewhere.

✔ Pair with Luxe Decor

Even a budget wallpaper can look expensive when styled with plush fabrics, mirrors, or brass hardware.

Mixing Splurge and Save for Best Results
Src: https://shltr.is/

✔ Get Creative with Placement

Apply wallpaper inside shelves, wardrobes, or the back of bookcases — it gives a designer finish at minimal cost.

✔ Use Remnants Creatively

Got leftovers from your splurge wallpaper? Frame them as wall art or use them for lining drawers.

🔧 DIY Wallpapering: Save Even More

Hiring a decorator can be expensive in the UK, with day rates starting from £150+. But many modern wallpapers are paste-the-wall and easy to install yourself. Brands like Lust Home and Graham & Brown design wallpapers with DIYers in mind. Be sure to:

  • Prep the surface (clean, smooth walls)
  • Use the right adhesive (as specified)
  • Start from the centre of your feature wall for symmetry

This DIY route saves hundreds — allowing you to splurge a bit more on the wallpaper itself!

🧱 Temporary Wallpaper Dupes for Renters

Live in a rental property? Don’t worry — there are peel-and-stick wallpaper dupes that are damage-free and removable.

Temporary Wallpaper Dupes for Renters
Src: https://rentaldecorator.co.uk/

Best Options for UK Renters:

  • JesRose Vinyl Peel & Stick Wallpaper
  • Next Home Removable Wallpapers
  • Amazon & Etsy Sellers (UK-based) – Offer great removable wallpaper options with stylish dupes.

These are perfect for accent walls, wardrobe doors, or kitchen splashbacks — and won’t cost you your deposit.

💬 Final Thoughts: When to Splurge, When to Save

  • Splurge when:
    • It’s a small area like a cloakroom or alcove.
    • You’re aiming for a luxury focal point (e.g. behind your bed).
    • Quality and longevity are important (e.g. entrance halls).
  • Save when:
    • You’re covering large surfaces (like full walls).
    • You want to follow trends that may change.
    • You’re decorating a temporary space or rental.

By thoughtfully choosing where to spend and where to save, you can create a high-end interior on a modest budget. Wallpaper dupes offer the look of designer prints without compromising your finances.

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