Walls – like presents – look their best when well-wrapped. And there’s now a huge choice of wallpapers out there, so they can shimmer, sparkle or stun with texture, pattern and colour.
Papering a single feature wall, or a whole room, is also a ‘fast’ way to embrace a trend. Here, three experts in the field reveal their wallpaper wisdom… Create drama and personality “Wallpaper has observed tradition for too long and people are starting to acknowledge its potential in their homes,” says Catherine Jacob, head of design at Murals Wallpaper, who offers a range of designs and can create bespoke wall murals from images, designs or photographs supplied by customers. “Platforms such as Pinterest and Instagram inspire people, while the rise in personalisation means people are enjoying creating unique designs for their walls. “Generally, patterns are becoming more daring, with large-scale dark florals, jungle prints and bright coloured geometrics enlivening the landscape of walls once dominated by a conventional neutral palette of paint.”
For 2018, she predicts large-scale images or repeat patterns will offer a punchy alternative to the small, ditsy patterns of yesteryear. Play with pattern “These days, people can choose a look which totally reflects their personality and taste. Whether you prefer a bold colour palette with pops of bright colour, linear or geometric patterns, or shimmering metallics, there’s literally something for everyone,” says Paula Taylor, colour and trends specialist for Graham & Brown. “For 2018, we’ve identified key trends which form the backdrop to our new collections. We’re focusing on raw beauty – tactility, texture and fresh white forms, which bring purity to a home – think weaves, cane work and wood grain with layered, natural finishes. “We’re also honing in on gentle, subdued shades, such as millennial pink, arctic blue and cool heather, as well as offering dramatic, dark backdrops.”
“Vibrant tones of turquoise, parakeet green and fuchsia which will burst onto the scene next year, reflecting the desire for botanical opulence and luscious vegetation.” Shimmer and texture “The trend for people to be brave with pattern and embrace colour will continue into 2018,” promises Alex Whitecroft, head of design at I Want Wallpaper. “The popularity of floral patterns endures and classic patterns are getting an update, with new printing techniques and a fresh focus on detail and larger-scale patterns. A pink/purple palette will be the top favourite.“The trend to bring the ‘outdoors in’, with the adoption of botanical and tropical looks, will evolve even further. There are so many fabulous ways to incorporate this look, from subtle embossed palm leaves to bold and bright tropical prints.” “Industrial papers mimicking the look of natural materials will continue to be popular, with earthy tones and dark woods taking over from the pale, blonde Scandinavian-style.” “Metallics and designs incorporating sparkle and shine are another hot trend, and are brilliant in light-starved rooms, as they help bounce light around and give an illusion of space.
Source: s1homes Lanarkshire magazine