Yes, it’s back.

But be warned. The new world of wallpaper is no place for the fainthearted.

Forget the cutsie florals … idyllic pastoral scenes … and dainty tea cup designs.

In the last few years, the patterns have become big, bold and fearless. These wall coverings are no longer content to serve as a blank canvas for other design devices, but make a statement all their own.

Textures are also reaching entirely new dimensions. Literally. They embrace reflective elements that add shimmer, and an element of the unexpected, to any room. With such embellishments as beads, pearls, crystals, and even nail heads, the unique pairing of reflective and textured elements opens a new world for daring designers.

Even the convention of laying the wallpaper with strict vertical symmetry has been flaunted. Designers can now select specialty wallpapers that are deliberately torn and that are hung in myriad ways for maximum geometric effects.

If trends continue in this exciting direction, we could realize a true wallpaper resurgence. For evidence, check out the latest designs by Ronald Redding and Wallteriors. They seem to have the knack for knowing what’s wanted.

Serving design professionals,
Warren De Young