Candice Olson Wallcoverings: Style Guide & Tips

Deciding on the perfect Candice Olson wallcoverings for your home involves more than just picking a pretty pattern. It’s about understanding the different collections, their design intent, and how they’ll integrate with your existing décor and the specific room’s function. Olson’s designs, produced by York Wallcoverings, often feature a sophisticated blend of texture, subtle shimmer, and bold motifs that can define a space.

Understanding Candice Olson’s Design Philosophy

Candice Olson’s approach to interior design, and by extension her wallcoverings, centers on creating environments that are both beautiful and livable. Her collections, available through York Wallcoverings, emphasize:

Layering: Combining different textures and patterns to add depth.
Luxe Materials: Often incorporating subtle metallic threads, high-sheen inks, or embossed textures for a touch of glamour.
Balance: Ensuring that even bold patterns don’t overwhelm a room, maintaining a sense of harmony.
Architectural Detail: Using wallcoverings to enhance the structural elements of a room, like accentuating a fireplace or defining a seating area.

When you’re looking at Candice Olson wallcoverings, you’re investing in a designer’s vision that aims to create sophisticated and inviting interiors.

Key Candice Olson Wallcovering Collections and Their Applications

York Wallcoverings produces several distinct lines under the Candice Olson name. Each collection often has a specific mood and application best suited for different areas of your home.

The ‘Modern Opulence’ Collection

This collection lives up to its name, featuring designs that exude a sense of refined luxury. Expect to see:

Geometric Patterns: Often with metallic accents or raised textures that catch the light. These work well in entryways, dining rooms, or modern living spaces. For example, a graphic damask or a repeating trellis pattern can provide a focal point without being too busy.
Textured Solids: These aren’t just plain colors. They often have a subtle weave, an embossed finish, or a soft sheen that adds dimension to walls. They are excellent for balancing bolder patterns elsewhere or for creating a sophisticated backdrop in bedrooms or studies.
Abstract Designs: Swirls, painterly strokes, and organic shapes that offer a softer, more artistic feel. These can be used in living rooms or master suites to create a calming yet stylish atmosphere.

Application tips: Use the more dramatic patterns as accent walls in smaller spaces like powder rooms or hallways to make a statement. In larger rooms, consider using them on a feature wall behind a sofa or bed.

The ‘Simply Candice’ Collection

This line often focuses on more understated elegance, making it versatile for various styles and rooms. It might include:

Subtle Damasks and Florals: Often rendered in tone-on-tone colors or with a hint of metallic ink, these offer traditional motifs with a contemporary twist. They are perfect for bedrooms, dining rooms, or even a formal living area.
Textured Stripes: Beyond simple lines, these stripes might incorporate metallic threads, varying finishes, or a subtle raised effect. They can elongate a room or add a sense of order.
Faux Finishes: Designs mimicking natural materials like silk, linen, or even a soft concrete texture. These add a layer of sophistication and can be used in almost any room, from a home office to a master suite.

Application tips: This collection is ideal for spaces where you want a polished look without a dominant pattern. It works well in master bedrooms, dining rooms, or even as a sophisticated backdrop in a home office.

The ‘Candice Olson for York’ Collection (often updated)

Across various iterations, Olson’s collections for York consistently offer designs that blend classic elements with modern sensibilities. Look for:

Updated Classics: Traditional patterns like damask, paisley, or damask are often reinterpreted with contemporary color palettes or metallic highlights.
Sophisticated Neutrals: Many designs utilize a range of neutral tones, from warm beiges and creams to cool grays and charcoals, often enhanced with subtle textures or shimmering accents.
Bold Motifs: While many designs are subtle, Olson also incorporates more impactful patterns, such as large-scale florals or intricate geometric arrangements, designed to be focal points.

Application tips: These are often the most versatile collections, suitable for any room where you desire a touch of designer elegance. Consider using a bold pattern in a living room or dining room, and a more subtle textured design in a bedroom or hallway.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Candice Olson Wallcoverings

Beyond the aesthetic appeal of a pattern, several practical factors influence your choice.

Room Size and Scale

The scale of the pattern should relate to the size of the room and the furniture within it. A very large, bold pattern can make a small room feel even smaller, while a tiny, intricate pattern might get lost in a large, open space. Olson’s collections often offer a range of scales, from subtle textures to dramatic statements. Consider how the pattern will interact with your furniture placement. For instance, a large-scale floral might overwhelm a room with oversized sofas.

Light and Color Palette

The way light hits your walls significantly impacts how a wallcovering looks. Designs with metallic inks, high-sheen finishes, or raised textures will reflect light, potentially making a room feel brighter. Conversely, matte finishes absorb light and can create a cozier atmosphere. Consider the existing color palette of the room. Candice Olson’s designs often feature sophisticated neutrals, but also incorporate richer jewel tones or softer pastels. Ensure the chosen wallcovering complements or enhances your existing furniture, rugs, and art.

Room Function and Durability

The intended use of the room is crucial. For high-traffic areas like hallways, entryways, or family rooms, you’ll want a more durable wallcovering. Many of Candice Olson’s designs are vinyl or have a durable coating, making them easier to clean and more resistant to scuffs and moisture. For areas like bedrooms or formal living rooms, where wear and tear is less of a concern, you might opt for more delicate materials or finishes. Check the manufacturer’s specifications for washability and scrubbability, especially for kitchens and bathrooms.

Installation Considerations

Most modern wallcoverings, including those from Candice Olson, are designed for straightforward installation. You’ll typically encounter:

Paste-the-wall: You apply the adhesive directly to the wall, then hang the paper. This is often quicker and less messy than traditional methods.
Pre-pasted: The adhesive is already on the back; you just need to activate it with water.
Peel-and-stick: While less common in high-end designer lines, some options might be available for easier application and removal.

Understand the hanging method before you purchase. Textured or heavy wallcoverings might require specific adhesives or techniques. It’s always recommended to use the adhesive recommended by the manufacturer, often York Wallcoverings, to ensure proper adhesion and longevity.

Installation Best Practices for Candice Olson Wallcoverings

Proper installation is key to achieving the designer look you expect from Candice Olson’s collections. Following these steps will help ensure a professional finish:

Surface Preparation is Paramount

This is the single most important step. Any imperfections on your walls will show through the wallcovering, especially with lighter colors or subtle textures.

Clean the walls: Remove all dirt, grease, and old adhesive residue. Sugar soap or a TSP substitute works well.
Repair imperfections: Fill any holes or cracks with spackle or joint compound. Sand smooth once dry.
Prime the walls: Use a quality primer specifically designed for wallpaper. This ensures good adhesion, prevents the wall from absorbing too much paste (which can lead to bubbling or peeling), and makes future removal easier. A primer like Zinsser’s Gardz or a similar high-quality acrylic sealer is recommended.
Ensure walls are dry: Allow ample drying time after cleaning and priming.

Measuring and Cutting

Measure the height of your wall from the ceiling to the baseboard, adding at least 4-6 inches for trimming at the top and bottom. This allows for adjustments and ensures a proper fit. When cutting strips, ensure you are cutting them in the correct orientation – patterns on designer wallcoverings often have a specific up. If the pattern has a repeat, account for this by cutting subsequent strips so the pattern aligns. Most Candice Olson designs will specify the pattern repeat (e.g., 20.5 inches, 25 inches).

Applying the Adhesive (if not pre-pasted)

If you’re using a paste-the-wall product, apply a generous, even coat of adhesive to the wall using a roller or brush. Ensure you cover the entire area where the strip will go, extending slightly beyond the edges. If you’re working with pre-pasted paper, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for soaking time – too short and it won’t activate; too long and it can become overly saturated and tear easily.

Hanging the First Strip

The first strip is critical as it sets the alignment for all subsequent strips. Use a plumb bob or a laser level to draw a perfectly vertical line from ceiling to floor. Align the edge of your first strip with this line, allowing the excess to overlap onto the ceiling and baseboard for trimming. Smooth the strip onto the wall using a wallpaper smoothing brush or a plastic smoother, working from the center outwards to eliminate air bubbles and wrinkles.

Hanging Subsequent Strips

Butt the edges of each subsequent strip against the previous one – do not overlap unless the wallcovering specifically calls for it (which is rare for designer papers). Ensure the pattern aligns perfectly before smoothing. Continue smoothing from the center outwards. Work carefully around windows and doors, cutting away excess material with a sharp utility knife or a rotary cutter.

Trimming and Finishing

Once a strip is smoothed and adhered, use a sharp blade to carefully trim the excess material at the ceiling and baseboard. Replace your blade frequently for clean cuts. For textured or embossed wallcoverings, a sharp utility knife is usually best. After all strips are hung, wipe down any excess paste with a clean, damp sponge or cloth. Allow the wallcovering to dry completely, which typically takes 24-48 hours, before proceeding with any touch-ups or final décor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Designer Wallcoverings

Even with high-quality Candice Olson wallcoverings, installation errors can lead to disappointing results. Be aware of these pitfalls:

Skipping Surface Prep: As mentioned, this is the number one mistake. Painting over damaged walls or not priming properly will result in a poor finish that can peel or blister.
Using the Wrong Adhesive: Each wallcovering type and manufacturer may recommend specific adhesives. Using a generic or incorrect paste can lead to adhesion issues. Always check York Wallcoverings’ recommendations.
Improper Pattern Matching: Taking shortcuts on aligning patterns will result in visible seams and a unprofessional look. Patience is crucial, especially with intricate designs.
Over-soaking Pre-pasted Paper: This can weaken the paper, making it prone to tearing and difficult to handle. Follow the soaking times precisely.
Using Old Blades for Trimming: A dull blade will tear and snag the wallcovering, leaving ragged edges. Always use a fresh, sharp blade for trimming.
Not Checking for Dye Lots: Ensure all rolls of wallcovering come from the same dye lot. Slight color variations between different dye lots can be noticeable once hung.

These mistakes can be costly, not just in terms of materials but also the time and effort invested. If you’re unsure about your DIY skills, consider hiring a professional wallpaper installer, especially for intricate or expensive designer papers.

Maintaining Your Candice Olson Wallcoverings

Once installed, caring for your Candice Olson wallcoverings is generally straightforward, but the method depends on the material and finish.

Wipeable/Washable: Most vinyl or coated wallcoverings can be cleaned with a soft sponge, mild soap, and cool water. Gently wipe away smudges or marks. Avoid abrasive cleaners or excessive scrubbing, which can damage the finish or texture.
Scrubbable: Some wallcoverings are rated as scrubbable, meaning you can apply a bit more pressure with a sponge or soft brush and a mild detergent. Always test this in an inconspicuous area first.
Delicate Finishes: Wallcoverings with delicate metallic inks, flocking, or natural fibers may require dry cleaning methods or simply dusting with a soft brush or a vacuum cleaner’s brush attachment on a low setting. Check the manufacturer’s care instructions.

Regular dusting or light wiping will keep your walls looking fresh and preserve the beauty of the designer patterns.

Where to Buy Candice Olson Wallcoverings

Candice Olson wallcoverings are exclusive to York Wallcoverings and their authorized retailers. You can find them through:

Authorized Online Retailers: Many reputable online home décor stores carry the collections. Ensure you are buying from a trusted source to avoid counterfeits.
Local Wallpaper Stores: Many specialty wallpaper and paint stores offer designer brands and can provide expert advice.
Interior Designers: If you work with an interior designer, they will have access to the full range of Candice Olson collections and can assist with selection and ordering.

When purchasing, always buy slightly more than you think you’ll need to account for pattern matching, errors, and future repairs. It’s better to have a spare roll or two than to find out later that the same dye lot is no longer available.

Complementing Candice Olson Wallcoverings with Other Elements

The beauty of Candice Olson’s designs lies in their ability to be a focal point or a sophisticated backdrop. Here’s how to complement them:

Furniture: Pair bold patterns with simpler, cleaner-lined furniture to avoid visual clutter. If the wallcovering is a subtle texture, you can afford to be more adventurous with furniture shapes and fabrics.
Accents: Use accessories like throw pillows, vases, and art to pick up colors or motifs from the wallcovering, tying the room together.
Lighting: Layered lighting is key. Wall sconces can highlight textured or metallic designs, while ambient lighting ensures the overall mood is comfortable.
Flooring: Ensure your flooring doesn’t compete with the wallcovering. A classic rug can anchor a seating area against a dramatic wall.

The goal is to create a cohesive design where the wallcovering enhances, rather than competes with, the other elements in your home. For more inspiration on creating harmonious spaces, explore York Wallcoverings’ extensive offerings.

Candice Olson wallcoverings offer a unique opportunity to infuse your home with designer style and sophisticated elegance. By understanding the collections, considering practical application details, and adhering to best installation practices, you can achieve a stunning and lasting transformation for any room.