Wall Décor
Megan Gates is an active blogger who provides written work to the blogosphere pertaining to NYC Rentals,Manhattan Condos, home improvement and the latest architecture, design and fashion. Follow her on twitter @MEGatesDesign.
Wall décor is a key element of a room’s design, and as with any design element, identifying the function of the room first can help you decide how to best dress up your walls. Establishing the function of a room not only means considering the general purpose of the room, but the type of environment that the room aspires to be. Is the room meant to be spacious and open? Or is it intended to be warm and cozy?
While staying current with the latest trends in wall décor can give a room a fresh, up-to-date look, keep in mind the overall feeling that you want your room to convey. Allow that sensibility to inform your design decisions when incorporating new looks in wall décor.
High-Gloss Paint
High-gloss paints were widely used in home interior walls until the suburban boom of the 1950s, when the construction industry found it easier and faster to use matte finishes. Today, designers are rediscovering the beauty of gloss paints. Unlike matte paint, a gloss finish catches and reflects light, adding depth and interest to wall colors. With semi- or high-gloss paints, it’s possible to use darker colors not usually associated with indoor walls. Plum is a trending color, as are wine colors like Merlot or Bordeaux.
Temporary Fabric
Wallpaper adds color, pattern and texture to a wall, but applying it is almost as time-consuming as removing it. For a wallpaper look that can be easily changed with the seasons, fabric walls are a good choice. Roll them on the walls using liquid starch, instead of glue. When it comes time to remove them, simply spray the walls with water to loosen the fabric. It will peel right off, and the walls are easily cleaned with a sponge and water.
Panels of Texture
The look of expensive molding and paneling can be replicated with affordable do-it-yourself projects. Create your own panels with large, rectangular picture frames, painted to match existing floor boards and ceiling molding. Frame wallpaper for a traditional or romantic room. For a more natural look, frame straw yoga mats or grass beach mats. You can skip the frames altogether, too, and simply staple the fabric of your choice around an artist’s canvas.
Let There Be Light
Think of light as paint, as something that can wash your walls with a soft glow. Use spot lighting to accent paintings and wall art, as well as to light up dark corners. Use up lighting to decorate walls with pools of light. Wall sconces are an easy way to up light a wall, while providing sculptural interest as well.
Whatever your choice for wall décor, ensuring that your wall blends with the overall mood you want to establish is the best way to create a room that you will love to inhabit.
