August 23, 2024

Wallpaper. Some people love it, some people hate it, and some people want to love it, but they are afraid to because of the wallpapers of the past. No matter which group you belong to, it is making a comeback—and it’s easier to use and replace than what your grandmother had in her formal living room your entire life. If you want to try regular, sticker, or peel-and-stick wallpaper, you’ve come to the right place. Wallpaper Design If you’re bored with paint, and getting out the stencils and sponges isn’t quite what you had in mind, wallpaper offers a variety of choices for every aesthetic. Some we love, in the right spaces, include: Nature-inspired: with a continued focus on sustainability and a desire to bring the outdoors inside, nature-inspired wallpapers are a great way to incorporate biophilic design into a space. Think floral patterns, botanical prints, and landscapes. Textured: these add depth and interest to a room. The options add subtle detail and interest while not removing other architectural features. Of course, there are bold options, too, which can be fantastic in the right setting. Think embossed patterns, 3D designs, and woven textures. Metallic: metallic accents add a touch of glamour to a room, and metallic wallpaper is a great way to accomplish that. Silver, gold, and copper accents in geometric patterns or abstract designs can look beautiful in a dining or powder room. Bold prints and patterns: in recent years, there has been a move towards bold prints and patterns. Large-scale florals, geometric prints, and abstract designs in bright colors can add the wow factor that paint simply can’t. We have a client who has chosen three of these types of prints. Vintage: this has become a popular trend in recent years. Art Deco designs, Victorian-era patterns, and mid-century modern prints all complement the architecture of the home. Benefits of Wallpaper While painting a room can truly transform it, the benefits of wallpaper go beyond making a space more visually appealing. Many types are more durable than paint and can last longer without showing signs of wear and tear. It can also hide imperfections in walls, such as cracks or uneven surfaces, making them less noticeable. Most are easy to clean with a damp cloth, making it a solid choice for high-traffic areas and areas more prone to staining. It comes in a wide range of colors, patterns, and textures, making it easy to find a style that suits your taste and decor. Will It Go Out of Style? One question/concern we hear most often regarding wallpaper is, “Will it go out of style?” Here at SDG, we don’t design with trends in mind. Our mission is to create personal spaces that function and endure, and we can’t do that if we’re focused on what we see on Instagram. Our designs begin with the architecture of the home and ensure a space feels fresh but not “remodeled.” When choosing wallpaper, keep these points in mind, and your choices will endure the test of time: Choose a timeless pattern. While trendy patterns and colors may look great now, they may not age well. Opt for a classic pattern that won’t look dated in five years, such as stripes or florals. Stick to neutral colors. Bright, bold colors may be trendy now, but they may not be in a few years. Choose neutral colors like beige, gray, or cream that can easily be paired with different styles and colors. Consider the room’s overall design. When choosing wallpaper, consider the style and décor in the space. A style that complements the existing decor will always look stylish. Opt for quality materials. High-quality wallpaper is less likely to fade or peel over time, keeping it looking better for longer. Experiment with accent walls. Instead of wallpapering an entire room, consider creating an accent wall or even a ceiling. It’s an opportunity to experiment with patterns, colors, and textures without committing to a full room. Hire a professional. An interior designer can provide advice on timeless styles and colors. A professional wallpaper hanger will ensure that the job is done properly and will look great for years to come. How Much of a Commitment Is Wallpaper? It’s true. Wallpaper isn’t as easy to change as paint and can be challenging, but it’s generally easier to remove than wall coverings like paneling or textured finishes. The removal process is usually possible to do yourself with a little bit of patience and elbow grease. The removal will depend on a few factors, including the type, the adhesive used, and how long it has been on the walls. If you find yourself in a situation in which you need to remove it, here are some tips: Start by scoring the wallpaper with a scoring tool or sandpaper. This will allow water or a removal solution to penetrate and loosen the adhesive. Apply a removal solution or fabric softener mixed with warm water and let it sit for several minutes. Use a putty knife or scraper to remove it gently. Be careful not to damage the wall surface underneath. If it is particularly stubborn, you may need to repeat applying the removal solution and scraping until it’s all removed. After removing it, clean the walls with warm water and mild soap to remove any remaining adhesive. Where to Begin? If you’re ready to dip your toes into the wallpaper world, a powder room or laundry room are generally safe places to start. They’re smaller spaces, so trying something outside your comfort zone is easier. Keep scale in mind. A smaller pattern may work better in a powder room as it won’t be so chopped up. If you’re ready to dive in, bold patterns, colors, and textures work well in dining rooms and offices. Those spaces typically have fewer textiles and more hard surfaces than other areas, so you won’t have to worry about conflicting patterns. A Shot of Botox This Old House likens wallpaper to a shot