HGTV Fans Struggle to Embrace a Key Detail in Erin Napier’s Home Town Kitchen Makeover



Erin Napier, the star of “Home Town,” is known for her exceptional home makeovers, ranging from elegant bedroom revamps to cost-effective kitchen updates. Despite her expertise, an unexpected design choice in Season 5, Episode 2 of “Home Town” surprised fans. Napier opted for a lemon-patterned wallpaper as a kitchen backsplash substitute, a decision that sparked criticism. She posted a photo of the transformation on Facebook, where fans expressed their disapproval of the wallpaper’s busy design and its seemingly random installation.

“I usually love your designs, but I must admit this one isn’t my favorite,” a fan commented. “It might look better in person, but it’s too busy for me. I generally don’t like busy designs, whether it’s tile, paint, or wallpaper.” Another remarked, “I love wallpaper but not how this is placed. It seems unfinished under the shelves.” Some suggested the wallpaper choice was due to a limited budget for the renovation. However, more cohesive and budget-friendly backsplash alternatives could have been considered.



The bright and busy wallpaper didn’t match the kitchen renovation

The lemon-patterned wallpaper stands out against the kitchen’s neutral color scheme and is awkwardly placed only above the stove and countertops. This might have been due to budget constraints preventing the installation of a traditional tile backsplash. Yet, as one commenter noted, there are budget-friendly alternatives that would have better suited the kitchen’s design.

“I understand the cost-saving aspect and the noble purpose behind this project, but the lemon wallpaper wasn’t my favorite. The rest looks fantastic!” one user wrote on Facebook. “Inexpensive subway tiles could have covered that small section!” Subway tiles would have been a stylish alternative, offering a cost-effective option for a DIY kitchen backsplash. Daltile Subway Tiles from Home Depot, priced at 15 cents per tile, are one such affordable choice.

For those preferring wallpaper, a more subtle and timeless option, like plain wallpaper in a neutral color, might be more appealing. The Jeweluck White Wallpaper offers a variety of colors that could complement your kitchen decor.

Reg Miller Award
Reg Miller Award

Reg Miller Award recipient, Lewis Lydon with OA Chairman, Pete Shadbolt and CEO, Lechelle Earl.