The walls in your home are one of the largest, most visible surfaces, so it is not surprising that choosing the right wall coverings is one of the most vital considerations when bringing a scheme to life.
It is so important to ensure the correct wall covering is decided upon, as this can have a major impact on budget, durability, and functionality of the space. Wall coverings have the power to transform a room, both visually and the atmospherically, they can change the proportions as well as hiding imperfections of the walls!
One of the most common wall coverings in most homes is of course painting, however there are choices to make when choosing the correct paint for each room.
Although paint may seem the most cost-effective solution, in high traffic areas such as corridors/ hallway and staircases paint will typically mark and show scuffs, requiring redecoration more frequently. Consider using Durable Matt Emulsion, some manufacturers call this Diamond Matt, a water-based emulsion which is resistant to typical household stains and is able to be repeatedly wiped clean without polishing up, or rubbing off.
In kitchens and bathrooms, you may wish to select a paint with mould resistant qualities. Oil based paints are tough, waterproof, and washable, making it a great choice for bathrooms, acrylic based is a good alternative choice.
Tiles are of course the main choice of wall covering in bathrooms due to their durability although you do need to consider type, size and shape of tiles.
Ceramic tiles are the most common material for bathroom wall tiles as they are available in a variety of different shapes and sizes. Ceramic tiles tend to be easy to cut and install as they tend to be lightweight in comparison to other materials.
When choosing the size of the tiles consider the size of the room, avoid using small tiles on larger areas when tiling an entire wall or bathroom, this can create a busy look to the eye. In addition, this increases the amount of grout, which adds to the maintenance and cleaning. Using darker grout can look very striking against lighter tiles whilst being more forgiving to marks and dirt.
Consider whether you need to tile the bathroom entirely or create feature areas in the shower and bath areas for a more contemporary feel.
In hard water or limescale prone areas it is recommended to use large tiles to limit the amount of grout, try to also choose smooth, glossy tiles making it easier to keep clean.
In the rest of the home, although painting the walls may seem the easiest most cost effective option, you are limited to flat colours which can make a eye catching statement, however to make a real design statement consider a feature wallpaper to create wow factor.
Although the initial financial outlay for wallpaper may seem more than opting for painting the walls, however by choosing a vinyl wallpaper you can increase longevity! Vinyl wallpaper is a more durable option than the traditional wallpaper, it is carefully designed to resist knocks and scuffs. Unlike paint you will not need to give the wall refresher coats to maintain the ‘like new’ finish, so although the initial cost is high the long term maintenance cost is substantially less, with a high quality vinyl wallpaper having a life expectancy for 10-15 years, so works great for hallways and staircases.
For staircases and corridors look to using a textured wallpaper rather than a bold pattern, this way it will not date and will complement the bolder patterns which create wonderful features in rooms coming off the hallways.
Why not add some fun to your children’s room with a striking mural? – a unique full image design printed across several drops to create a large-scale image with little or no repeats the pattern – and a real statement!
In a more traditional scheme, particularly Georgian properties, wall panelling looks beautiful, adding elegance to an interior scheme. Panelling is a strong design statement whilst adding durability to high wear areas. Consider half height panelling on staircases and dining rooms or full height panelling which can look highly effective in rooms such as offices and libraries.
A more unusual wall covering, that is becoming increasingly popular is the Biophilic Wall. A Living wall really brings nature into the home, which is a striking feature as well as stimulating positive mindsets and wellbeing. However, as stunning as a living wall may look, there are considerations to be thought about. A ‘living’ wall requires an automated irrigation system installing to keep the plants alive and healthy. With this is mind, installation can be difficult and costly.
However, there are now ways to enjoy the greenery in your home without the difficulties the installation and need for running water. Using preserved foliage eliminates the need for watering, sunlight and maintenance whilst avoiding the artificial plants – a great alternative to the living wall!
So there is a roundup of just some options when it comes to adorning your walls – a choice that may seem daunting!! So why not get the professionals in to help with design something truly unique for your spaces, whilst working to your budget !