Give Wallpaper a Chance!
I know, I know. People find wallpaper scary. It seems like such a big commitment, but honestly, it can be a game-changer in the decoration of a room. Wallcoverings today are nothing like the sweet floral prints and borders of yesteryear. They can be bold and a statement in themselves, or a textural background on which to display art. Take a look at some of my current favs (photos are from the manufacturers’ websites).
Let's start with the classic Scalamandre zebras. This wallpaper was designed in the ‘40s for Gino’s Restaurant in NYC and is recognized the world over. Now that you’ve seen it, look for it to appear in magazines and movies. It comes in many colors, but I think the red, white, and black combination is just stunning.
(image above) Scalamandre, Wallpaper
We can’t talk about wallpaper without talking about grasscloth. Grasscloth is woven from natural fibers like sisal. It feels organic. Because this is woven and not printed, the seams will show so buyers beware. That’s how we know it’s the real deal – not vinyl. It’s more expensive than wallcoverings made of paper or vinyl, but it’s the perfect subtle background. Sage green looks spectacular with landscape paintings!
How gorgeous and elegant is this slate blue style, with light-reflecting crystal-like beads by Graham Brown? Paired with sultry lighting, it’s killer. I’ve never seen such sophisticated polka dots.
(image above left) Kravet, Grasscloth Wallpaper
(image above right) Graham and Brown, Wallpaper
When you use a mural wallpaper, the wallpaper is art. We’ve used Susan Harter murals in many applications, but my favorite is a dining room. I love it there because guests are seated for at least an hour. It takes that long to appreciate all of the details.
(image above) Susan Harter, Mural
Much to my daughter’s chagrin, I am all about animal prints in clothing and decorating. Bring on the ocelots! This wallpaper by English company Farrow and Ball is handcrafted using actual paint, not ink, creating a unique deep finish. Farrow and Ball is world-renowned for its paint.
Looking for something more modern? See if you like “Deconstructed Stripe” by Schumacher. The graphic collage of stripes has abundant white space making it a striking background without overwhelming a room.
Are you going to give wallpaper a chance?
(image above left) Farrow and Ball, Wallpaper
(image above right) Schumacher, Wallpaper