Interiors

Wonderful wallcoverings

Written by Shereen Lurie

Wallcoverings are certainly having ‘a moment.’ The sheer variety of materials available, from vinyl and wood to grasscloth and cork, as well as incredible patterns, including botanicals, stripes, and geometric designs, has sparked a renaissance in interior decor and personal expression. Here, we share the latest wallcovering trends.

Are there any particular wallcovering styles or designs that are popular at the moment?

“Geometrics and abstract art styles are all the rage. Grasscloth and other natural textures are also popular.” – Sigi van Niekerk, fabric and wallpaper buyer for Hertex Fabrics

Hertex Fabrics

What materials are being used for the latest wallcoverings?

“Barbara Osorio, an international brand distributed in South Africa through The Silk and Cotton Co., launched their first wallpaper range, and many designs were printed on sisal. This is a great way to add texture to a design when it’s printed on a grass cloth base. Besides the grass cloth base, textured paper is definitely making its way into the market.” – Taryn Swanepoel, director at The Silk and Cotton Co.

The Silk and Cotton Co.

What design rules apply when using wallcoverings in the home?

“Consider the scale of the design in relation to the room it will go in, as well as the other patterns used in that room. You also need to consider if any art will be used on the wallcovering and how they will relate to one another.” – Taryn Swanepoel, director at The Silk and Cotton Co.

The Silk and Cotton Co.

Hayley Baxter, creative business director at Robin Sprong Wallpaper, shares five tips to help you select the perfect wallcoverings for your home:

Evaluate the quality: Look for reputable brands and read customer reviews to assess the quality of the wallcoverings you are considering. Quality materials and construction will ensure longevity and a professional finish. Consider visiting local stores to see and feel the materials in person before making a decision.

Take accurate measurements: Measure the walls you intend to cover accurately. This will help you determine the quantity of wallcovering you need, minimizing wastage and potential additional costs. If you’re unsure, consult with a professional or use online calculators that can estimate the required quantity based on your measurements.

Sample and visualise: Request samples of your chosen wallcoverings before committing to a purchase. Seeing samples in your own space will help you visualize how they will look in your home. Consider observing the samples under different lighting conditions throughout the day to get a better understanding of their appearance.

Consult with professionals if needed: If you’re uncertain about your choices or lack experience in wallcoverings, don’t hesitate to consult with professionals such as interior designers, decorators, or knowledgeable sales representatives. They can provide valuable insights, suggestions, and guidance based on their expertise.

Budget wisely: Set a budget for your wallcoverings project and consider the costs of materials, installation (if applicable), and any additional tools or supplies needed. It’s important to strike a balance between quality and affordability while keeping in mind any long-term maintenance costs.

Robin Sprong Wallpaper

Featured image: Robin Sprong Wallpaper

THE AUTHOR

Shereen Lurie

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