Specialties
Experienced wallpaper installer, I know that flawless walls completely transform a home. Many think that wallpapering is a simple weekend DIY project, but achieving a luxury finish requires strict technical precision, professional tools, and years of practice. Every successful wallpaper installation begins long before I unroll the first strip.The most critical step is always preparation. If your walls have old, outdated layers, a meticulous wallpaper removal is mandatory. Pasting new material over old sheets leads to bubbling, peeling, and uneven surfaces. As a dedicated installer, I carefully prep the canvas repairing cracks, sanding imperfections, and applying a premium primer to ensure perfect adhesion. Whether you choose classic paper or a modern, heavy-duty wallcovering like vinyl or grasscloth, each material demands a custom approach. As a professional paper hanger, I meticulously calculate pattern matches, manage drop repeats, and align seams so they are completely invisible to the eye. Using the wrong adhesive or incorrect smoothing techniques can ruin expensive materials in seconds. Hiring a specialist hanger is an investment that protects your design budget and guarantees durability. From residential accent walls to large commercial projects, my goal is to deliver a seamless, bubble-free result that lasts for decades.
History
Established in 1985.
Wallpaper Guru with Ellington started with a bold idea — to transform ordinary walls into extraordinary spaces. Founded by Bartholomew Ellington, a longtime craftsman with a creative edge, the company grew from a one-man operation into one of Chicagoland’s most trusted wallpaper installation services.
What began as a personal mission to combine technical precision with artistic vision soon became a go-to name for clients seeking more than just “good enough.” Bartholomew built his reputation by delivering clean, consistent results — with a bit of flair and personality along the way.
Over the years, Wallpaper Guru with Ellington has brought life, color, and texture to hundreds of homes and commercial properties, earning the trust of designers, families, and businesses across the city and suburbs.
Meet the Business Owner: Bartholomew E.
Bartholomew Ellington, founder of Wallpaper Guru with Ellington, brings a rare mix of creativity, craftsmanship, and character to the world of wallpaper installation. With over 40 years of hands-on experience, he’s known for combining clean, technical work with a designer’s eye and a storyteller’s flair.
Bartholomew didn’t set out to follow trends — he built a business around creating spaces that feel personal, bold, and beautifully finished. His approach is grounded in precision and consistency, but every project still carries his signature touch.
Leading a close-knit team of skilled wallpaper installers, Bartholomew works on everything from classic interiors to high-concept accent walls. His reputation in the Chicago area comes not just from flawless results, but from how effortlessly he guides clients through the process — clear, thoughtful, and dependable from start to finish.