A Modern Look with a Classic Canadian Twist
If you’re looking to breathe new life into a small space, look no further than this stunning powder room makeover by Claire Yo. Claire recently refreshed her space using the Watercolor Checker wallpaper from our Kristen Forgione x Urbanwalls collection—and the results are anything but ordinary. Inspired by the warmth of Canadian hospitality and the timeless appeal of buffalo check, Claire reimagined her powder room with a fresh, contemporary twist. This wallpaper has the charm of a classic pattern but with an artistic, hand-painted texture that brings it right up to date.
Whether you live in a cozy condo in Vancouver or a farmhouse outside Ottawa, this look proves you don’t need a huge space to make a big impact.
The Vision: Soft Texture Meets Bold Contrast
Claire’s goal was simple: turn her bland powder room into a space that feels intentional, stylish, and elevated. She was drawn to the soft watercolour texture of the wallpaper—it gives a subtle nod to buffalo check without feeling overly rustic. The pattern brought a sense of balance to the room, striking the perfect harmony between structured and organic. Paired with bold black fixtures and clean white trim, the wallpaper added just the right amount of drama.
Why We Love Watercolor Checkered for Canadian Homes
This isn’t your average plaid. The Watercolor Checkered design offers the comfort and familiarity of traditional patterns found in cabins and cottages across the country, but with a softened edge that feels refined and modern. The painterly texture adds depth and visual interest, making it a perfect fit for everything from downtown lofts to lakefront retreats.
And because it’s removable and repositionable, it's ideal for renters or homeowners who love to refresh their space with the seasons.
Claire’s Step-by-Step DIY Installation
No wallpaper experience? No problem. Claire had never installed wallpaper before but managed to tackle the project in an afternoon. Here’s how she did it:
1. Prep the Wall
She started by cleaning the surface thoroughly and removing outlet covers to ensure a smooth application.
2. Measure and Plan
Using a level, she marked a straight vertical line to keep the first panel aligned—this is a key tip for Canadian homes, where not all walls are perfectly square!
3. Cut Panels to Size
Each panel was trimmed slightly longer than needed to allow for easy adjustment at the ceiling and baseboard.
4. Peel and Apply
Claire slowly peeled the backing and smoothed the panel onto the wall from top to bottom, adjusting as she went. The repositionable adhesive made it easy to fix minor mistakes.
5. Align the Pattern
She carefully lined up each new panel edge-to-edge (no overlap needed) for a seamless look.
6. Trim the Edges
With a sharp utility knife, Claire trimmed the excess wallpaper and cut around outlets for a crisp, professional finish.
How Did It Go? A First-Time DIYer’s Perspective
For Claire, the process was not only manageable—it was empowering. She enjoyed how user-friendly the wallpaper was and appreciated being able to create such a dramatic transformation without hiring a pro. Her powder room now feels like an extension of her personal style: confident, thoughtful, and inviting.
FAQs: What Canadians Want to Know
What wallpaper did Claire choose?
She used Watercolor Checkered from the Kristen Forgione x Urbanwalls collection.
Is it peel-and-stick?
Yes! The wallpaper is self-adhesive, making it a go-to option for renters and homeowners alike.
Does it have a real texture?
It does. The surface has a gentle, tactile finish that looks and feels high-end.
Can I use it in a bathroom?
Absolutely! It’s perfect for powder rooms or any space with low to moderate moisture—just steer clear of direct splashes.
Will it damage the wall when removed?
Nope! When applied to a properly painted surface, it peels off cleanly.
Do the panels overlap?
No overlap necessary. The edge-to-edge design makes installation easy and seamless.
Is it easy to match the pattern?
Yes! Just start with a level guideline, and take your time placing each panel. It’s surprisingly forgiving.
Where can I find it in Canada?
You can order Watercolor Checkered directly from our Urbanwalls website—we ship across Canada.
What other rooms does it work well in?
It’s incredibly versatile. Try it in a nursery, guest room, hallway, home office, or mudroom.
Feeling Inspired? Make It Yours
Want to give your home a refresh? Whether you're styling a new build in Calgary or updating a heritage home in Montréal, Watercolor Checker offers a bold yet approachable option that brings personality to any room.
Browse the full Kristen Forgione x Urbanwalls collection and get started on your next home project today.
Final Thoughts: A Small Space with a Big Statement
Claire’s powder room proves that a small space can still make a serious style impact. With the right wallpaper and a little DIY spirit, she transformed her room into a modern classic. If you're ready to add a personal touch to your home—without the mess of paint or a full reno—our peel-and-stick wallpaper makes it easier than ever.
