While paint offers an infinite palette of colours, wallpaper goes a step further, providing unique qualities:
- Texture and Depth: Designs range from imitations of natural materials (wood, brick, marble) to tactile textures, which paint simply can’t replicate.
- Patterns and Visual Effects: It allows you to create dramatic focal points or repeating patterns that give rhythm and character to a space.
- Durability: A good quality wallpaper can last for many years, often exceeding the lifespan of a paint job.
- Hides Imperfections: It’s excellent for concealing small cracks or wall defects more effectively than paint.
Current Wallpaper Trends
The market offers an impressive variety. Here are some of the most popular trends you might want to consider:
- Botanical and Floral Prints: From large palm leaves to delicate watercolour florals, nature comes indoors to create fresh, relaxing environments. These are perfect for bedrooms, living rooms, and dining areas.
- Bold Geometry: Clean, repetitive geometric patterns in contrasting colours that add a modern, dynamic, and very current touch. They are ideal for hallways or home offices.
- Panoramic Murals: Instead of repeating patterns, these are large images that cover the entire wall, creating an immersive window or landscape effect.
- Textile and Rustic Effects: Designs that mimic natural fibres, linen, or burlap, adding subtle warmth and sophistication without being too showy.
Key Tips for Getting Started with Wallpaper
Choosing and installing wallpaper doesn’t have to be complicated if you follow these simple tips:
1. Define Your Feature Wall
It’s not necessary to wallpaper all four walls of a room. Often, the biggest impact is achieved by creating an “accent wall” or “feature wall.” Choose the wall you see first upon entering or the one behind the sofa or bed. This allows you to use bolder designs without overpowering the space.
2. Consider Lighting and Size
- Small or Dark Spaces: Opt for wallpapers with light backgrounds and small or subtle patterns. Bright colours reflect more light.
- Large Spaces: You have the freedom to experiment with dark colours or large, dramatic patterns, which will help the space feel more cozy.
3. Choose the Right Material
There are several types of wallpaper, but the most common are:
- Vinyl: Very durable, moisture-resistant, and washable. Ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and high-traffic areas.
- Non-Woven: This is the most popular option today. It’s breathable, easy to install (the paste is applied directly to the wall), and very easy to remove without damaging the drywall.