Hi, candyray- can you upload jpeg photos for us? Thanks.

I usually find painting over wallpaper a false economy. I would suggest going through the pain of taking it off, sanding and smoothing before painting. However, I haven't much experience with wallpapers in N. America so invite other Houzzers to chip in with their experiences.

See photos of the kitchen wallpaper. Definitely needs updating! Also photo of adjacent family room with neutral color paint. I am considering texture paint over the wallpaper in a color that ties to the adjacent space. The paper is the original. High ceilings, so much wall to sand, etc. What are my options?? Thanks!

I would suggest removing the wallpaper. It can be a bit of a pain, you could either do it yourself or hire someone. You can usually tell if you paint over wallpaper and since this is such a main living area, in the end it will be worth it.

Okay, I have to admit that I have done this several times and here is when. A) In my own home. B) When I am on a budget both in time & money. C) When I'm looking for a quick fix because I'm pretty sure that it's not a long term solution. D) On an investment property.

But truth be told after all those disclaimers... it's always turned out well and no regrets.

Here are some time tips.
1) There is special glue that you can get to tack down any paper that has come up so make sure the seams are flat.

2) At the seam you can carefully spackle that with drywall compound, let it dry then sand. Stay light and there will not be a seam that will show and it will also hold the seams down.

3) YES to texture! That will help the eye distract from any imperfections. Ideally, you would use flat paint because of flaws but in a kitchen you really need eggshell. Try to spend some time in prepping the surface as best as you can so that you can still use the eggshell.

Good luck and go for it!

I'm glad you uploaded some pictures. The crown molding, the trim around the doors, chair rail, builtins, all beautiful work and not cheap to do, so I can't stress enough and I know it is not something you want to hear but you should spend the time or spend the money having someone remove the wallpaper. It will be well worth the investment.

I've said this before with painting wallpaper unless its paintable wallpaper . its a shot in the dark you just don't know what will happen when you apply the paint the texture will just make it worse remove it and start fresh its best to pay more now than paying a lot more later to remove painted wallpaper