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To wallpaper or not to wallpaper – the debate has been going on since the heydays of wallpaper (it was in the 1940s).
During the Middle Ages wallpaper was made as low-cost alternatives for tapestries. Today wallpaper has become a luxury wall covering.
Many people are still concerned about the longevity of the wallpaper, the designs, and the effort it takes to remove.
However, most beliefs are myths and a lot has changed since the 1940s. Today’s wallpaper is durable, usually washable and the wallpaper glue is water soluble, making it easy to remove.
There is even wallpaper that is suitable for bathrooms, but you get what you pay for, so check with the supplier.
Tips before you buy
Most wallpapers, except for textures, have a pattern repeat, so keep it in mind when calculating how much you need.
Ask the supplier to double check your calculations. Always order a bit more than needed.
Most wallpaper is imported from overseas and ordered on request, so the delivery time is 3-6 weeks. Order in time to avoid disappointment.
Don’t apply new wallpaper over old wallpaper, it will buckle or peel.
The wall you want to apply the wallpaper to, should be smooth.
Get professionals to install your wallpaper. They don’t cost an arm and a leg. Most suppliers will be able to recommend a few people. Phone around to get competitive quotes. You either pay per roll or per m².
Wallpaper can cost anything from R1500 –R4500 per roll. Wall panels go up to R11,000.
Rolls are usually 10m long and 53 cm wide.
Trending wallpapers
Botanical prints
Bold leafy designs, reminiscent of a tropical forest, form an exotic and calming backdrop for any room. Some designs include flowers, fruit and tropical birds.
Image: Dreamweaver Studios’ Oxygen collection.
Faded colourways are also available.
Pattern and colour
Prints that mimic Moroccan tiles add vibrancy and colour to a wall and awakens the wanderlust within.
Image: Hertex’s Cape to Casablanca collection.
Mood
Darker tones on a wall create a sexy and elegant atmosphere and depth can be given with a misty landscape.
Image: Dreamweaver Studios’ Armani Casa range.
Texture
Imitating steel, wood, cement or any texture is easy with wallpaper and fills a wall without becoming the focal point. Textures are also more timeless than patterns.
Image: St Leger & Viney.
Bling
Metallic walls enhance grandeur and opulence. Combine it with earthy minimalism for a contemporary feel.
Image: Harlequin’s Leonida range
Earthy
Organic designs in earthy colours and matte finishes echo nature and is calming on the eye.
Image: Frontier Seashell from MissPrint.
Art
Panels and even bold designs become the artwork on the wall. Designs are fun and quirky.
Image: Black & Light fromDreamweaver Studios’ Ejiffinger range.
