Wallpaper is transformative; it has the power to change any room, adding a unique look and ambience without restricting you to a single wall colour or pattern. As with any craft, wallpaper can bring a room to life, making a smaller room appear larger.
Many modern homes are bringing back wallpaper. As consumers begin to choose styles, wallpaper is trending in children’s rooms and modern living rooms. Originating in the 16th century, wallpaper has a distinguished legacy; the earliest wallpapers were used to decorate cupboards, small rooms in merchants’ houses, and even mansions.
Gaining increasing popularity, wallpaper is making a comeback in modern décor. If you would like to know which type of wallpaper to choose or which is right for you, here are a few tips to consider.
Patterns
When it comes to patterns, many believe that they must select a pattern that matches the scale of the room. Contrary to what most people think, you don’t need small patterns for a small room and large patterns for a large room. A large wallpaper pattern in a small bathroom, for example, is a dramatic design choice. You can also use a small pattern in a large den where space is broken by windows, doors, or built-in furniture.
Colours
Wallpapers come in a variety of colours; the colours you select can transform your room remarkably. There are a variety of colour palettes in the market. Metallic wallpaper, for example, can transform a room with poor natural light to reflect more natural light into a room. Horizontally-striped wallpaper can make a wall appear longer, while vertical stripes give the illusion of height.
Framed Wallpaper
If you don’t have the budget for original artwork, you can add a bold splash of colour to any interior space by picking a beautiful wallpaper with a unique pattern. There are several designs you can choose from; you can place them on modern frames or jazz up your interior by placing them on a vintage frame from a nearby thrift store for a bit of pizzaz.
Some factors to consider before covering your room in wallpaper…
Wallpaper is Expensive
Paint is generally much cheaper to use than wallpaper. Many people tend to choose wallpaper instead of paint because of its aesthetic qualities. Wallpaper lasts longer; it doesn’t get chipped or dented like paint, and you do not have to worry about it being ruined if you accidentally bump into it while moving furniture and appliances.
Prime your Walls First
Applying a coat of primer first before wallpapering your room will ensure a smooth application. It will also help smooth out any bumps and other imperfections to create a protective barrier. Getting a primer before you apply the wallpaper will make it slide easier if you need to adjust it.
Don’t Wallpaper over Wallpaper
Although you can add new wallpaper over an old one, you don’t want to do that. The new wallpaper could technically fail to adhere properly and lead to peeling. Moreover, the existing wallpaper could easily bubble and peel, adding to the hurdles of installing it effectively. If you want to remove it in the future, you can create a huge hassle for yourself by removing layers and layers of paper.
Wallpaper can be Hung in Damp Locations
Kitchens and bathrooms are ideal spots to decorate with wallpaper. Nevertheless, certain types of wallpaper can uniquely be installed in bathrooms, kitchens, and steam rooms. These types of wallpaper usually have a modern adhesive waterproof membrane that protects it from direct contact with moisture. When looking for these types, search for terms like “commercial grade,” “vinyl,” or “scrubbable” wallpaper.
Wallpaper is becoming a trendsetter in the design industry. This is a shift from recent years when many consumers considered it to be cumbersome and outdated. Wallpaper is even appearing on ceilings to create a unique mural-like effect that can add an extra dimension to an interior space.
Think About It
The final decision whether to cover your living space with wallpaper or not is yours to make, bearing in mind that overall, wallpaper can contribute to a space’s beauty. With several brands producing wallpapers that are naturalistic and modest, wallpaper can undoubtedly add a decorative touch to your interior space; a few brands even feature unique floral and botanical patterns.
Wallpaper has come a long way from initially being used as backdrops for antique furnishings in museums and colonial mansions. The allure of wallpaper hasn’t faded and is still in demand as ever before!
David Messiha | Contributing Writer
