Trends come and go, but some things are undisputed classics. Jurassic Park and Toile de Jouy print are two timeless fixtures in culture. They may feel like an odd pairing, but ever since we saw a recent social media post, the two have been intertwined in our minds.
Allow us to explain: Emilie Goldblum, AKA actor Jeff Goldblum's wife, shared a photo on her Instagram page of the couple's walk-in closet, and our eyes were immediately drawn to the wallcovering.
In the image, we see cabinets and open shelves housing rows of shows, while pink Toile de Jouy paper serves as the background for the space. While we typically see this centuries-old print in the color blue, often in bathrooms, the Goldblums' contemporary twist is giving us some wallpaper ideas – encouraging us to bring Toile de Jouy alive in new colorways (and spaces).
A print that has been used for (literal) decades, Toile de Jouy, has a rich history, which automatically adds a vintage touch to any space.
'The term "Toile de Jouy" refers to a specific type of printed fabric that originated in the French town of Jouy-en-Josas in 1760,' explains designer Nina Lichtenstein. 'This fabric, traditionally depicting idyllic scenes of rural life, was first produced by Christophe-Philippe Oberkampf, a Franco-German entrepreneur. The early designs often featured romanticized pastoral themes, including shepherds and shepherdesses, picnics, and landscapes. Originally printed in a single color, usually red, blue, or black, on a white or cream background, the pattern became immensely popular throughout Europe.'
When it comes to the choice of space, Toile de Jouy, with its intricate and illustrative features, works just as well in a small bathroom as it does in a large office – so while Goldblum's closet is small, the print is just as powerful.
'Toile de Jouy wallpaper is an instant way to create a statement in any room,' Lichtenstein says. 'For a traditional look, consider covering all four walls in a room like a study or bedroom. This immersive approach works beautifully in smaller spaces, where the pattern can wrap the room in its narrative charm. For a more modern take, consider using Toile de Jouy as an accent wall or within a niche to add character without overwhelming the space.'
Though Toile de Jouy is a bold wallpaper choice, Lichtenstein encourages mixing and matching patterns for a unique room appearance.
'For those who love a layered, eclectic look, Toile de Jouy pairs surprisingly well with other patterns,' she says. 'Stripes, checks, or even florals in complementary colors can create a dynamic, multi-dimensional space. The key is to keep the color palette cohesive, allowing the different patterns to harmonize rather than compete.'
Chic and unexpected, this blush pink toile wallpaper is a statement-making wallcovering.
We recommend incorporating Toile de Jouy print in a modern space, as it adds some vintage flair with its old-school, illustrative appearance. Juxtapose the print against metallics, smooth lines, and minimalist furniture for a balanced look.
