Home Wallpaper
When you watch old films set in the past, whether it’s a silent drama or a talkie, you’ll often see homes decorated with wallpaper. While paint can liven up walls, wallpaper adds texture and pattern—and sometimes even a little history. Depending on your taste, wallpaper can be as subtle or as bold as you like. But it’s important to think about how you plan on using your room before you start shopping for a pattern that speaks to you.
Unlike painting, which is simple and inexpensive, installing wallpaper can be tricky and expensive. While there are options to help you get the look of wallpaper without breaking the bank, it’s still a job best left for those who have the time and expertise. To avoid the potential of a botched project, consult an interior designer who specializes in home design.
After a period of decline in the 1960s and 1970s, when a shortage of oil and increased competition from the paint industry led to reduced sales, home wallpaper is enjoying something of a revival. With a surge in demand for feature walls, the popularity of digital printing and the return of screen-printing (which uses a folded piece of fabric to create an intricate pattern) has encouraged a new generation of designers and artists to take up the craft. Firms such as Glasgow-based Timorous Beasties transform traditional pastoral scenes into dark, edgy images of contemporary life, while freelancers like Deborah Bowness and Tracy Kendall make bespoke and limited edition papers that feel more like installations than wallpapers.
In addition to the many patterns, materials and installation methods available, today’s wallpapers are also easier to clean and care for than ever. For example, there are paint-friendly papers that can be removed with a sponge and water and nonwovens made of fused fibers that are tough enough for high-traffic areas and can withstand the nicks and scrapes of family life.
With so many styles to choose from, choosing the right wallpaper can be daunting, but there are plenty of resources online to help you get started. For example, Spoonflower lets you upload an image that you love and edit it for print size and repeat. Once you’re happy with the design, you can order a sample of the paper to see what it looks like in person and make sure there are no issues. If you’re concerned about a paper being too bold for your space, Lee recommends choosing an accent wall instead of covering the entire room in it, as that will keep your design fresh and modern. It’s also a good idea to opt for wallpaper that contains some natural elements, as that will help your space feel more grounded. Lastly, be sure to consider the colors of your home’s furniture and décor before choosing your wallpaper. A mismatched color scheme can throw off the whole room.