Make the room extraordinary with wallpaper

Botanical-inspired wallpapers are on trend in 2020, while texture continues to feature prominently as a way to create a cosy, design-conscious environment in your home. ‘Printed or textured wallpaper adds visual warmth,’ suggests interior designer Bailey Basson, owner of Blue Capricorn Interior Design Studio in Durban.

Art Deco

Timeless, opulent and oozing with glamour, Art Deco wallpaper grows in popularity year by year, says Clare Kearney of Wallpaper Inn. ‘The predecessor to the Art Nouveau movement, Art Deco has now firmly cemented its place in both history and as a staple trend within interior design. Graham & Brown’s new Art Deco wallpaper has something to scratch the decorating itch for everyone. From deep dramatic navies to subtle metallic blush pinks, the collection features wallpaper that works in any interior space,’ says Kearney.

Tropical design

If you’re going with tropical greens in wallpaper, these work well with neutral tones, as well as natural textures and metallic accessories in brushed gold. ‘Tropical design fills your room with energy and colour, an explosion of light and vibrancy that will create a totally unique interior,’ says Imogen Eades from Robin Sprong Wallpaper.

For an ultra-hip look, check out the Honolulu Palm Green wallpaper with its very graphic leaves against a neutral background. ‘This statement wallpaper looks fabulous on all four walls, or you can use it as a feature wall,’ says Eades.

Artisan and batik

Batik design, a traditional pattern form usually found on Indonesian cloth, is another popular trend in wallpaper, and it’s a good direction when looking to create a soothing oasis that’s still rich in print. ‘Batik is defined by many very beautiful patterns. Take a look at the subtle batik wallpapers – in olive, gold and blue – in the Watercolours collection, which also features an artisan tile design and basketweave wallpaper designs,’ says Suvina Mahadaw from U&G Fabrics.

Modern Art is another exciting new collection at U&G Fabrics, defined by wallpaper renditions of brickwork, Impressionist art and fine-textured weave.

Fabric texture

Wallpaper these days comes in a dazzling array of designs with an incredible selection of effects like pearl and glitter, raised inks, suede, gels, beads, foils, embossed silk textures, and natural grasscloth.

At St Leger & Viney, there is a stunning range of velvet fabric wall coverings, as well as real silk wallpaper. ‘Fabrics in wallpaper, whether real or simulated, can make a room more interesting or more refined, depending on how they are used,’ says Peter Gordon, creative director at St Leger & Viney. Fabric simulations include distressed linen, tartan, grasscloth, suede and wicker.

‘Wallpaper can simulate a number of fabric textures, which add character to a room that paint simply cannot accomplish,’ says Haidee Kramer of Dreamweaver Studios.

Restraint

Less is more. Think of wallpaper as an accessory, especially if you’re going with bold patterns and bright colours. One wall covered in your dream wallpaper may be all you need to make a big statement.