Walls define the physical space of a home; however, walls do far more than simply separate rooms. They provide the homeowner with a blank canvas upon which they can create the backdrop of their lives. Color and texture added to these simple structures influ-ence the atmosphere of a room and instill a sense of harmony throughout the home.

For years wallpaper was considered “dated” among consumers, as well as designers who de-ferred instead to painted walls and faux finishes. Wallpaper, however, is making a comeback with a new name and a new look.

Now referred to as “wall-coverings,” this design element has evolved into a product that adds dimension to any room with a new collection of colors, patterns, and textures.

By L A R ISSA CA R A M A NIDIS By Design Interiors, Inc.

Photography by Brad Carr, www.b-radphotography.com

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116 117Fabric, Bedding & Wallcovering Houston Design Resources Issue Il 2009 Issue Il 2009 Houston Design Resources Fabric, Bedding & Wallcovering

Updated Color TrendsLooking to the past for inspiration has always been a practice for designers. This same practice applies with today’s wall-covering options. Colors borrowed from earlier periods have been given a new twist, creating a thoroughly modern update. The strong colors of yesteryears, such as “Avocado Green,” “Harvest Gold,” and “Rust Orange,” have been brought back as “Apple Green,” “Sunshine Yellow,” and “Citrus Orange.” These colors are fresh and vivid, bringing energy to the space. Softer hues are also emerging to appeal to the consumer that might prefer some-thing a little more subtle. “Celery Green,” “Buttery Yellow,” and “Spa Blue” invoke a calming and relaxed atmosphere.

The addition of shimmer and shine to wall-coverings has pro-vided a unique option for those who are seeking something elegant and fun. Metallic and pearl accents on the walls bring instant sophistication and luxury to any room. Adding move-ment and depth, this design element makes the space come alive. Pairing with complementary fabrics and furnishings will ensure that this type of wall-covering does not overpower a room.

The neutral color of cream, in all its assortment of shades, con-tinues to play a very important role in design; however, gray in just as many variations, has recently become the new neutral. Colors such as, “Charcoal,” “Heather,” and “Whisper,” have become the foundation for some of the most beautiful room designs.

Revamped Pattern StylesThere is no doubt that exciting new colors are playing a big role in the resurgence of wall-coverings; in addition, there are many great new modernized patterns causing great interest in this no longer “dated” design element.

The transformation of classic patterns such as damask and paisley

has become one of the hottest trends for wall-coverings. Enlarg-ing traditional patterns, adding gloss, and changing associated colors provide a wide range of variety that can suit every taste and style.

The revolution of patterns has also been seen in the current botanical designs that are available. The once common roses, jun-gle leaves, and seashells have been replaced with over-scaled flo-rals in striking shades, intricately detailed landscapes, and scenes including beautiful sprawling vines, colorful birds, and delicate blossoms in soft hues that are perfectly suited for timeless inte-riors. Furthermore, geometric designs have been reappearing with bold colors that give a contemporary spin and astonishing impact to the simple shapes of these patterns. Distinctive designs can also be found in handcrafted coverings; sketched and painted by hand, each panel is a one-of-a-kind piece of art.

Unique Texture DevelopmentsBeyond color and pattern, an additional level of interest has been evoked using texture. New technology and improved manu-facturing techniques have produced some incredibly unique wall-coverings with surprising textures. Previously made more for commercial use, vinyl wall-covering has taken on a whole new look, mimicking everything from delicate fabrics and natu-ral fibers to animal skins and precious metals. The options are infinite.

Although some of these designs can also be achieved with a faux finish, the distinct difference with wall-coverings is their re-siliency, creating a long-lasting design. For example, a stain resis-tant wall-covering would hold up very well in high-traffic areas. Due to moisture and heat in bathrooms and kitchens, authentic coverings such as silk, or grass cloth, wouldn’t typically be the best choice for these areas. As technology has advanced, how-ever, homeowners can now have these beautiful looks without worry. The ability to add wall-coverings imitating natural fibers in rooms that would destroy the real material is an added benefit.

Another important benefit to using textured wall-coverings is that they can easily lend themselves to change. Faux finishes alter the texture of the walls and must be sanded or “skimmed” with plaster in order to modify their appearance. Conversely, when the prep work is done properly, wall-coverings can be put up and taken down relatively easily. The homeowner can achieve the textured look and maintain the option to change the de-sign when desired. Selecting wall-covering requires no greater commitment than when choosing paint or a faux finish, and it provides the opportunity for an almost effortless design change.

“Wallpaper” has come a long way in both its appearance and function, and the options provided are as vast as they are diverse. Designers bored with the “been there/done that” look of paint-ed walls and faux finishes have become advocates for the newly renovated look of wall-coverings. Bold color palettes, imagi-native platters, along with technological advances have allowed wall-coverings to be reintroduced to a generation of consumers who are looking for inspiration within their décor.

Gone are the wallpapers of yesteryear. With a new name and a new look, wall-coverings are enjoying a resurgence that may incite homeowners to ask: “why not wall-covering?” n

118 Fabric, Bedding & Wallcovering Houston Design Resources Issue Il 2009