Create a Focal Point
Paint is one way to transform your space as you have learned from my previous blogs about paint but wallpaper can take your space to the next level. Think of wallpaper as art. It has the ability to instantly draw your eye towards it thus creating a focal point to your room. What is a focal point? A focal point is the first thing you notice when you walk into a room. For example, a fireplace wall is a natural focal point but not all rooms have a built in focal point. Wallcoverings can instantly add drama to a room that lacks unique architecture or add subtle texture and richness to a small space. Your desired level of impact depends on the choice of pattern, texture, scale, color, and sheen. Grasscloth can add a soothing element on a headboard feature wall while a bold geometric pattern can update a small powder room. Think of how a wall painted a strong color draws your eye towards an accent wall. A distinctive wallpaper can give the same desired effect.
High Impact
While the accent wall is a safe way of experimenting with color and pattern without the commitment sometimes going bold is what is needed to define the space. Don’t be afraid to cover two, three, or even four walls at a time. Beautifully textured paper with soft details work well in smaller rooms. A large scale bold pattern would overwhelm a tiny space but be great for a living room accent wall. Deep colors and oversize prints offer a great opportunity to liven up dead space on a staircase wall which is often overlooked. Instead of a predictable monochromatic look or neutral color palette, bold color can truly give your space a completely new look that cannot be achieved by paint alone.
Prep
Before we get carried away with the infinite wallcovering possibilities headed your way, it is important to first prep your walls. This step is important because it ensures that the wallpaper has a smooth clean surface that will not compromise the design of your wallpaper. A smooth flat surface makes sure the wallpaper with adhere to the surface correctly and will be easier to remove in the future. To prepare the wall for installation it must first be free of defects like cracks or bumps. These blemishes, even the tiniest of bumps, will be emphasized by the wallpaper once applied. Another mistake many people make is failing to check that the pattern is running in the right direction. This is something that cannot be overlooked as a pattern that was meant to be a vertical stripe may be installed horizontal by accident or worse an intricate pattern may be installed upside down. This is where it is key to have a professional to consult and install your chosen design. A professional wallpaper installer will be able to recognize the little details and will be sure that your pattern perfectly lines up.
I hope that this helps you to select right wallpaper as you remodel your home. Good luck!
*Featured photography by Yoko Oda Interior Design LLC.
