Usually wallpaper that is not loose can be painted, though it should be primed first. Check with your paint store on the product they recommend.

Headboard would look great and is easy to install.

I like the idea of installing beadboard! That way, you do not have to worry about the wallpaper. When I was in high school, I went to a work camp where we scraped several layers of old wallpaper off walls and it's something I will never do again!

Okay, gals and guys, I'be been an interior designer for 36 years, but I'd like you to all me what headboard is, because I don't know what it is! Please explain. Many thanks!

Re-drywall. Since you're going over an existing wall you can use thinner 1/4 inch drywall.

Much more flexible in terms of decorating than bead board.

Zinsser BIN shellac primer over wallpaper, joint compound or skim coat over uneven areas, then seal and prime over those areas.
The problem you might face is the areas where the wallpaper has been removed. The drywall has been more likely compromised in those areas. You will either have to replace or repair the walls in those areas.

There are no good short cuts. That's how you got into this mess in the first place. And bead boarding your bathroom walls seems a bit silly when this can easily be fixed. Skim coating is not hard, just a honed skill. I quickly learned and repaired my bathroom walls on my own. No one can tell there was ever damage or notice where I skim coated.

@Caroline Albert

"Beadboard" ...... the inexpensive sheets of mdf paneling that mimic true tongue and groove in narrow sizing. Wainscoting panels , basically.: ) Make that sort of lol

I feel your pain! No easy short cuts in a bathroom. Can't tell from the picture, but I assume there is a shower/bath. Before you do anything, you must consider the effects of steam on any wall or ceiling treatment. Covering over is fine as long as you treat the base accordingly. Make no mistake, mold will grow anywhere!

If you are really on a tight budget, after treating the walls, consider pallet wood. Free!!! And unbelievable species of wood scraps that are used to make these shipping plates. Most big box stores will gladly let you take what you want. Ask for permission - some do have an exchange program with there vendors.

The various wood species and thickness of the boards will lend itself to a very interesting wallcovering - whether you chose to stain or whitewash. I'd think about going 3/4 of the way up from the floor and capping off with a nice ledge. Or you can cut them to equal lengths and do a herring bone or "mock" shiplap / barn wall effect. Possibilities are endless - Be sure to seal your finished treatment with a high quality poly or other wood sealer!

Good luck!

If you go with the beadboard idea, you could add a 3" wide shelf at top which adds helpful storage or space for artwork. You could then continue the beadboard to the ceiling above the shelf.

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