Wallpaper has always been a timeless way to inject personality into a room. Looking at trends, each decade can be identified by its unique wallpaper style. In the Victorian era, wallpaper featured heavy floral and damask patterns, usually in rich moody colours. This was also the era when industrial advances made wallpaper affordable to the masses. Since then we’ve seen many styles and designs, including the futuristic inspired patterns of the 1950’s, an abundance of chintz wallpaper in the 80’s and the shabby chic floral motifs of ‘the noughties’ (2000-2010).
While wallpaper patterns are a fun way to look at decorating styles of the era, it also speaks broadly to what’s happening in the world and the way we think about our homes. The 1950s saw the end of rationing and became a decade of prosperity and futurism, which showed up in the colours and patterns of wallpaper. The shabby chic look became popular just as social media was taking off and information could be spread quickly. Distressed and vintage patterns offered comfort in a rapidly changing world.
As we look to this year and beyond, we see global shifts emerging that create a desire for warm and nurturing spaces. Homes are sanctuaries from the chaos of the world and wallpaper trends are reflecting the desire for deeply personal spaces created with intention and awareness. Wallpaper is an easy way to add colour, texture and show off your unique personality.
Curious to see the years newest wallpaper releases, I caught up with Nichole, Wallpaper Manager at one of Calgary’s trade only showrooms. “Wallpaper is taking centre stage in design projects now,” she explains. “Instead of using wallpaper as an accent to complete the decor, designers are first selecting the wallpaper and building a design aesthetic around that.”
According to Nichole, bold patterns, rich colour palettes, textured papers and artisanal finishes are coming on strong. Plaid is still a popular choice, as are large botanicals. “I’m really impressed with the different ways designers are using wallpaper,” explains Nichole. “From ceilings, to niches, to built-ins, there’s no place that wallpaper can’t personalize.”
There’s a renewed interest today in design that has a personal touch. Homes that are layered and authentic reflect a desire for spaces that prioritize wellbeing and individual comfort. Because the the trend is about one’s own style, the array of papers to choose from allows for creating unique spaces. As future generations analyze our wallpaper styles, they’ll see a high degree of personalization with cozy layers of comfort. They’ll be able to conclude that in a chaotic and agitated world, creating a personalized home that offered sanctuary was the best antidote.
Helpful Hints
Afraid of committing to a wallpaper? Start with rooms that you don’t spend a lot of time in, such as a powder room, laundry room or kitchen pantry.
You can start slowly by introducing wallpaper on just one wall. I suggest a dining room ceiling, the back of a bookshelf, or a pass through hallway.
An entry way is another good places to add wallpaper. I like using a vinyl paper for durability and washability.
And finally, if you’re trying to decide on a wallpaper, I say use your feeling brain rather than your thinking brain. Flip through the books quickly and paperclip any you LOVE … don’t stop to think “should I could I will I”, just clip away. When you go back and look you’ll definitely see a theme emerge. You may be pleasantly surprised by your feeling choices.
