Posted by
Elana Safronsky, Managing Editor
Friday, October 30, 2009 2:10 PM EDT
What can't you do with wallpaper these days... It's such a versatile design element that packs a lot of style punch for your dollar. Of course, wallpaper can run you $5 to $500 dollars a roll, but as Scotch Mommy and I concluded last week: if you really fall in love with an expensive paper, you can splurge on the powder room... (She's agonizing over her dining room at the moment, so comment on her woes here.)
Anywhoo, because Scotch Mommy, AKA Reni, is on the wallpaper trail, I got it in my head to check on what's new, and round up all its creative uses. We all know you can stick it on the wall, but what I'm after is how, and more importantly, where else? Many have discussed the possibilities but it's such a plundered resource that I thought it ripe for re-visitation. And I come back to you from the webasphere anything but empty handed; not only did I find new ways of wallpapering that I had never thought of before, there are so many examples to discuss that I had to split it up into two post! Today, I give you Fun with Wallpaper, Part One.
The Feature Wall
Decor Pad, TheGoodsDesign blog
Modern or traditional, a super graphic focal point of wallpaper is a liberal and cost-effective option. These two floor-to-ceiling fireplace hearths are the perfect place to deploy a little colour, and even a little crazy if you're so inclined. Tiling or marble cladding would be much more expensive, and if you imagine these simply painted, it brings on the majour zzzzzs.
Stick-on Bed Frame
PointClickHome.com, Chicago.Timeout.com
I mentioned this when, a little while back, I wrote about creative headboards, and still I find this to be one of the most ingenious ideas ever. Choose a shape, cut it out, stick it on. So simple but so great. In these examples, both show a simple wooden frame surround, but if you want to go for a more ornate silhouette, it may render the wooden frame a tall order... But doesn't the yellow one actually look upholstered? Amazing.
The Paper Backsplash
Antique-Arts.com, SweetAndBitter's Flickr photo stream
Again, I can't think of a faster/cheaper way to get some style and colour in a less than interesting kitchen. I've seen people put plywood over tile in a rental apartment and wallpaper it for a little touch of personality. There are many papers on the market today that are vinyl or specifically designed for kitchen/bathroom/wet-room use, that are perfectly ok to use as a backsplash, but if you want to make use of some traditional leftover paper, you can put Plexiglass over it as in the example on the right (you can see it reflecting light in the top right corner.)
Back-of-the-Cabinet
Both photos from DustyBurrito blog
I wonder if the photo of the left is actually from the '60s - too much authentic stuff aggregated together... In any case, I love it. Open/floating shelves on a wall of graphic paper makes my head swim with possibilities. The option on the right is another good tip for a rental - wallpapering a closet, especially in a small bedroom, can add some much needed romance.
Risers: The New Feature Wall
Lowe's Creative Ideas, TheHayStackNeedle blog
Really, truly didn't think of this one. What a lovely and easy way to create a focal point in the hallway! Mainly however, I think this is a nice feature in a vintage/shabby chic interior. It's a charming touch in a white-washed home that lacks in right angles, but maybe superfluous in a modern, minimalist abode.
Wait, there's more next week! But what do you say to these ideas so far?