Wallpaper - Looking at Black

Created by Melissa Averinos, our Looking at Black wallpaper brings together a quirky cast of hand-drawn characters set against a solid dark background. The monochrome motif features charming ink-style illustrations including monkeys, owls, narwhals, rabbits, bears, and mermaids, each detailed with whimsical patterns, crosshatching, and geometric textures. The high contrast between crisp white line art and the deep black backdrop gives this design a bold graphic presence while maintaining a playful, storybook charm. Like all our wall murals, it is made-to-measure on PVC-free paper with a subtle physical structure that feels wonderful on the wall.

In the room

We see this design working exceptionally well in a playroom, nursery, or child's bedroom where the illustrative figures can spark imagination without overwhelming the space with loud colours. Because the repeat uses a disciplined two-tone palette, it carries a lot of character while remaining easy to integrate. In a toddler's room or bedroom, we love using it as a striking feature wall behind a cot, bed, or reading nook, allowing the individual characters to be admired up close. For a creative space or teenage room, the graphic black-and-white look also works comfortably across several walls to create an immersive, illustrated environment.

Styling it

To balance the bold contrast of the wallpaper, we suggest pairing it with warm, natural materials and clean silhouettes. Light timber furniture, such as pale ash or birch, softens the dark backdrop and keeps the room feeling airy and welcoming. Simple painted finishes in soft whites or warm neutrals help anchor the space without competing with the lively illustrated pattern.

When choosing textiles, solid woven blankets or simple textured cushions in tactile cotton work best, letting the detailed motif remain the main decorative focus in the room.

Colour combinations

Our Looking at Black wallpaper relies on a pure palette of brilliant white lines over a deep black field. To style around it, we suggest introducing warm off-whites, creamy linen tones, or soft chalky greys on surrounding painted walls and woodwork to bridge the contrast naturally. If you would like to introduce colour through furnishings or decor, earthy ochres, soft muted greens, or dusty terracotta provide a gentle, grounded warmth alongside the graphic monochrome backdrop.

About our wallpaper

At Wallism, our wallpapers are made-to-measure according to your exact wall dimensions, helping to reduce unnecessary excess compared with standard rolls. Every design is printed on PVC-free paper featuring a subtle surface structure, and our wall murals are carefully produced to be straightforward and simple to hang in any home.