Color Blocking Wall Decals by Mina Javid for Blik

Color blocking, a design strategy that originated in fashion, involves combining a few solid hues to achieve a striking and cohesive aesthetic. This technique can be effectively translated into interior design to infuse a room with personality and visual depth. Instead of subtle, complementary shades, successful color blocking often benefits from the juxtaposition of unexpected colors, such as teal with red or amethyst with coral. This approach allows for a playful and bold expression within a living space. One example of this design philosophy is seen in a Barcelona home where interior designer Marta Klinker collaborated with architects Andrea Serboli and Matteo Colombo of CaSA. Following a fire, the renovation led to the innovative use of terra-cotta formica for kitchen countertops. This material, which did not resemble traditional laminate, was strategically employed as a color block to delineate and organize the kitchen and living areas, demonstrating how practical solutions can also serve aesthetic purposes. The integration of such a distinct color choice helped define the overall spatial arrangement. Another application of color blocking is evident in the Shelter Island, New York, home of designer Jonathan Adler and Simon Doonan. Here, the doors beyond the hallway entrance are painted in two contrasting Benjamin Moore colors, creating a vibrant focal point and an immediate impression upon entering. Similarly, a guest bedroom in a Maine home, a project by Jenny Kaplan, Chris Corrado, and Taisha Coombs of An Aesthetic Pursuit and Pieces, showcases a colorful palette with pale yellow walls, bright blue floors, and coral red accents. This combination illustrates how different surfaces can be treated as distinct color blocks to form a cheerful and dynamic environment. The library in perfumer Frédéric Malle’s Fifth Avenue apartment also embraces color blocking with an unexpected scheme of teal, golden yellow, and rich red, further enhanced by artwork from David Reed. In a Beverly Hills residence designed by architect Marc Whipple for a sports power broker, a guest room is distinguished by a palette of citrus hues, featuring a custom-made bed with Deborah Sharpe Linens bedding and art by John Baldessari, which together create a lively and distinctive space. Pierre Yovanovitch's renovation of the Villa Noailles retail space offers another interpretation of color blocking. Inspired by the rectangular plantings in the garden, Yovanovitch utilized tones of blue and other complementary shades to create a three-dimensional cubed effect, connecting the interior design with the Villa Noailles’s modernist history. In a Houston home decorated by Miles Redd, the dining room features a graphic floor, custom painted by Agustin Hurtado on Patterson Flynn Martin sisal, which serves as a central color-blocked element that commands attention. The Wave House, a 1950s Walter White residence acquired and renovated by Los Angeles firm Stayner Architects, maintains its midcentury aesthetic through pastel and retro-leaning hues in the kitchen. Modern appliances are discreetly hidden behind panels, preserving the original design while incorporating subtle color blocking. Finally, designer Gabhan O’Keeffe’s family retreat outside Moscow employs coral Charles Edwards floor lamps, sunny yellow chairs, and royal-purple sofas around a zebrawood table in the dining room, demonstrating how furniture and lighting can contribute to a vivid color-blocked interior. #ColorBlocking #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #BoldColors #ResidentialDesign #ModernistDesign #ArchitecturalDesign #ColorPalette #EclecticStyle

This guide details the process of applying colour blocking techniques to interior walls, offering a step-by-step approach to transform a room with painted designs. It emphasizes careful planning and preparation to ensure a successful outcome. The article begins by advising readers to sketch their desired colour blocking design beforehand, considering how different colours will interact. It suggests painting on a neutral base colour to avoid complications with new paint shades and encourages creativity in the size, shape, and colour choices of the blocks. Safety considerations are also highlighted, particularly the importance of using a stepladder on flat ground when working on higher areas. The preparation phase for painting is thoroughly outlined, starting with the smoothing of the wall surface using sandpaper. This is followed by wiping the wall with a damp sponge to remove any dust. Skirting boards should be brushed clean of dust and then protected with masking tape to prevent accidental paint drips or splashes. Before marking the design, the article instructs users to measure the wall area designated for painting. Once the measurements are taken, the chosen blocking design is marked onto the wall using a spirit level and pencil. The guide recommends selecting blocks that are not directly connected for the initial painting phase. These marked lines are then covered with masking tape. The next section focuses on painting the first set of blocks. It advises covering the floor with a dust sheet to protect it from paint. For blocks touching the ceiling, precision is key, with a paintbrush used to carefully cut in along the top edge. The edges of the blocks are painted first, and the middle areas are then filled in with a roller. After the first coat dries, a second coat is applied. Once the second coat is dry, any masking tape that is no longer needed is removed. For subsequent blocks, masking tape is reapplied to the edges of the already-painted blocks, ensuring a slight overhang of the new colour. This overhang helps the colours to meet seamlessly, fully covering the base coat and creating crisp lines. The process of cutting in by hand around the edges and then filling with a roller is repeated for these blocks. After drying, the masking tape is carefully removed, leaving any tape necessary for the final block in place. The final block is marked and painted using the same method, with an emphasis on preventing drips if painting above previously completed blocks. Once dry, all remaining masking tape is removed. The guide concludes by encouraging readers to use the provided method as a foundation for their creativity, allowing them to personalize their spaces with colour blocking. It suggests using vibrant colours for playrooms and lounges or soothing tones for bedrooms, demonstrating the versatility of the technique. Complementary resources, such as guides on paint finishes, trends, and expanding space with paint, are also referenced to assist with colour selection and application. #ColourBlocking #InteriorDesign #HomeDecoration #PaintingGuide #DIYHomeImprovement #WallDecor #PaintTrends #RoomTransformation

This blog post compiles a selection of 10 residential projects that effectively utilize colour blocking to enhance their interiors. The collection, derived from popular images on Pinterest, showcases how architects and designers employ distinct blocks of colour to introduce personality, define spaces, and create visual interest within homes. The first example, House for Agnes in the UK by Tigg Coll Architects, features exposed I-beams painted bright red, injecting a playful character into an otherwise traditional London house. R2 Studio's Kennington House, also in the UK, incorporates blue, green, and yellow elements in its kitchen and a stairwell that transitions from red to orange, brightening a previously dark Victorian property. Apartment AB in Austria, designed by Kombinat, uses coloured tiles to delineate storage areas, with pastel green tiles in the kitchen and blue and pink tiles in a hallway. In Mexico, Studio Jakob Gomez's Chipinque Monterrey apartment features a bold yellow storage unit that acts as a focal point and transition between living spaces. RA Projects introduced a striking blue steel staircase in the Fin House for Roksanda Ilincic in the UK, creating a vivid contrast with the minimalist interior. Studio Alexander Fehre's Apartment Filippo in London includes a fixed dining area with crimson seating that stands out against monochrome wallpaper. Piso Pereiv44 in Spain, by Miel Arquitectos, is characterized by various bold colour accents and a continuous wall punctuated by fluorescent green storage spaces. AKTA's Basanaviciaus apartment in Lithuania showcases colourful furniture, such as green kitchen cabinets, a blue velvet sofa, and a red textured chair, all complemented by black-metal details. Henning Stummel's self-designed Tin House in the UK features warm-hued rooms illuminated by skylights, with rich orange cabinetry and walls that harmonize with the home's russet steel cladding. Finally, Naturehumaine's Canari House in Canada, a transformed 1930s building, uses a dramatic black and yellow staircase with geometric cut-outs as a central, colour-blocked circulation element. #ColorBlocking #InteriorDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #HomeDecor #ModernInteriors #ArchitecturalDesign #VibrantHomes #DesignInspiration #ContemporaryDesign

The article offers nine creative and stylish alternatives to traditional wall painting for home renovators looking to refresh their interiors. It acknowledges the common dread associated with painting and proposes various methods to achieve a fresh and trendy look without a paintbrush. The first alternative discussed is using fabric, as demonstrated by Jesse and Mel on 'The Block,' who successfully covered a guest bedroom wall with velvet to create a luxurious feel and complement the room's color palette. This technique, though used alongside some painted walls, was praised by judges for adding balance. Venetian plaster is presented as a second option, offering a dramatic, old-world aesthetic. El'ise from 'The Block' used champagne-colored Venetian plaster in her formal living room, indicating that while professionals can apply it, even novices can participate in the technique. Wallpaper, though a common alternative, is highlighted for its diverse and often extraordinary modern designs, ranging from subtle patterns to bold prints. It can be used as a feature wall or throughout a room for a consistent look. Bringing the outdoors in, the article suggests using plants to cover a wall. This 'living wall' concept adds a fresh burst of life, with various plant options available, from climbing varieties to succulents, emphasizing the importance of selecting the right plants for the indoor environment. Tiles are also proposed as a unique wall covering beyond bathrooms and kitchen splashbacks, capable of creating distinctive feature walls if chosen thoughtfully. For those who prefer not to paint, art offers a ready-made solution. Large, striking prints or a collection of smaller pieces can establish a theme, with the added benefit of easy interchangeability for a refreshed look. Decals are presented as a renter-friendly option, being removable stickers that quickly enhance a wall with various designs like quotes, animals, or floral patterns, offering flexibility in decoration. A gallery wall of family photos provides a personal touch, allowing homeowners to proudly display cherished memories. This option is also noted as cost-effective depending on the sourcing of frames and photo printing. Finally, curtains are suggested as a versatile alternative, not just for windows, but for covering entire walls. Hanging stunning fabric with a curtain rod can introduce warmth and interest into a room and can be easily swapped out to change the decor. #WallDecor #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #WallCoverings #DIYHome #DecorativeWalls #HomeStyling #TheBlock

Many individuals find blank walls uninspiring, and while acquiring art or installing wallpaper can be costly and challenging, creating a mural offers an accessible and personal alternative. This article showcases the experiences and techniques of four DIY mural artists, demonstrating various approaches to transforming interior walls into artistic canvases. Luiza Solano, for instance, embraced a "bold and blocky" style for a closet mural in her Miami Airbnb. Working within a budget, she found inspiration in color references, particularly from a boutique hotel in Oaxaca, Mexico. Solano directly sketched lines onto the wall with a pencil, refining the composition until it achieved balance. To plan the wraparound mural's palette, she utilized a wide-angle photo and an image-editing app. Her final choice involved nine complementary colors, with three shades of blue created by mixing different amounts of white paint to maintain tonal consistency. Despite her initial inexperience, Solano "trusted the process" and layered an off-white, matte-finish paint from Behr in Shoelace over the entire mural to produce a "faux limewash effect." She noted that color blocking provided a high-design aesthetic without significant difficulty. Clare Sullivan, an interior designer and home-improvement content creator, adopted a "stencil and stamp" method for her Cape Cod-style house in Connecticut. Her goal was to achieve a wallpaper-like effect at a fraction of the cost. Sullivan sourced stencil templates online, recommending buying multiples to expedite the process. For color selection, she typically chooses a main color, a complementary shade, and two accent colors. Prior to stenciling, she repainted the room white and meticulously measured to create a symmetrical, wallpaper-like grid. Her essential tools included a bowl of water, cut kitchen sponges, the original wall paint for touch-ups, and Scotch Spray Mount Adhesive, which she preferred over painter's tape for its clean removal. Sullivan emphasized dabbing paint gently to prevent bleeding under the template and suggested cutting stencils for awkward spaces. She believes DIY projects are rewarding and cost-effective. Sydney Moss, a Brooklyn-based interior designer, chose to "split it in half" by painting a low mural in her narrow hallway. This design created a trompe l’oeil chair rail, effectively dividing the space and allowing her to paint while seated. Inspired by her gardening hobby, Moss freehanded marigolds using leftover sample paints, opting for Behr’s Dynasty paint line for its one-coat primer, fast-drying properties, and scuff resistance, which is ideal for rental properties. She acknowledged a learning curve, expressing a future intention to apply a base coat first. Moss approached her rental project with a Zen mindset, accepting that the mural might eventually be painted over. Following an unexpected move, she embarked on a new project: a floor-to-ceiling mural of trees in her windowless office, drawing on psychological research suggesting that nature imagery can promote calm and reduce anxiety. Finally, Brooklyn artist Laura Chautin used a "bits and bobs" approach to create whimsical mural vignettes around her bed. During her first trimester of pregnancy, she painted imaginative scenes with her usual art supplies, including acrylics. Rather than a full wall mural, she strategically positioned illustrations to frame her bed, avoiding the need to move furniture. Her height limitations influenced the scope of the paintings. Chautin’s murals, like her ceramic goods, are highly detailed, featuring moody clouds, blooming trees, and footpaths, all rendered in her characteristic color palette of pinks, reds, and greens. The existing warm white walls and Japanese pendant lights provided a pleasant backdrop, influencing the overall effect of her artwork. #DIYMurals #WallArt #InteriorDesign #HomeDecoration #CreativeProjects #BudgetDecor #Stenciling #ColorBlocking #ArtisticHomes

ZNAK introduces a new product called 'Mosaic wall decals,' designed by Martins Ratniks, following the success of their tear-off wallpaper. These new wall decals offer a creative and customizable approach to interior decoration. Unlike traditional wallpaper or simple stickers, ZNAK Mosaic wall decals consist of multiple colorful, self-adhesive pieces. Each set includes a stencil, allowing users to precisely arrange the individual components to form various mosaic patterns and designs on their walls. This system ensures consistent spacing and a polished appearance, even for those without extensive design experience. The innovative aspect of ZNAK Mosaic wall decals lies in their versatility and ease of application. The self-adhesive nature eliminates the need for messy glues or professional installation, making it a user-friendly option for home decorators. The inclusion of a stencil simplifies the design process, enabling individuals to achieve intricate and aesthetically pleasing wall art with relative ease. This product empowers users to personalize their living spaces by arranging the colorful pieces into countless unique configurations, transforming plain walls into vibrant focal points. The product builds on ZNAK's reputation for innovative wall coverings, as highlighted by their previously popular tear-off wallpaper. The Mosaic wall decals provide a fresh alternative for those looking to inject color, pattern, and artistic expression into their homes without permanent commitments. The design by Martins Ratniks emphasizes both functionality and aesthetic appeal, catering to a modern sensibility that values customization and ease of use in home decor. This solution is ideal for individuals seeking to enhance their interior environments with dynamic and personalized visual elements, offering a blend of artistic freedom and structural guidance. #WallDecals #Wallpaper #HomeFurnishings #InteriorDesign #MartinsRatniks #ZNAK #DIYDecor

Jane Harris, the founder and creator of 'Pick a Pear,' is an Adelaide-based artist known for her original art pieces created with inks, acrylics, watercolor, and gouache. Her artworks are then reproduced into various products, including framed fine art prints, stretched canvas prints, unframed prints, wall decals, and greeting cards, all produced in Australia. The name 'Pick a Pear' stems from her tendency to create artwork in pairs and her affection for pears, allowing customers to choose a single piece or a pair. Jane has been creating art for many years, fueled by a passion for creativity that her mother recognized when she was just three years old. After having two children and returning to part-time work in her late 30s, she decided to pursue art professionally. She enjoys producing high-quality art for homes and workplaces, drawing inspiration from nature, capturing plants and animals in photographs, and observing décor colors and trends. She also finds inspiration through sketching for hours, with some of her best designs originating from playful experimentation. Her art is characterized by its refined and detailed nature, often taking days to complete. She particularly enjoys creating intricate illustrations with ink or detailed paintings with watercolor, gouache, or acrylic. While realism is a favorite style, she embraces a mix of artistic approaches. Her popular pieces, like "Rainbow Warrior" and "Little River Love," emerged from quick design sketches. A significant milestone in her career was having her art featured on The Block 2021, a moment she describes as unforgettable. Her artworks were selected by Block contestants Ronnie & Georgia, with assistance from Nadia, The Block Shop designer, for a Block Challenge Room. Under tight deadlines, three of her pieces, including two framed "Rainbow Warrior" fine art prints, were chosen. Being featured on The Block and becoming a Block Shop artist was a dream come true for Jane, fulfilling a long-held ambition since 2018. She expressed immense gratitude to The Block styling team and the contestants for making her dream a reality. Among her favorite Block couples, she lists Jimmy & Tam, Deb & Andy, Mitch & Mark, Norm & Jess, Ronnie & Georgia, Hayden & Sara, and Alisa & Lysandra, appreciating their interior styling, personalities, and entertainment value. Jane works from a home art studio equipped with all her supplies, an easel, and a drafting table. She aims to relocate her studio in the future to better separate her work and home life. She manages her artistic endeavors around her family, dedicating her days to art creation when her children are at school and her husband is at work, often immersing herself in a piece for hours without distraction. Her favorite current home decorating trend is wall paneling, citing Ronnie & Georgia’s master bedroom paneling as particularly stunning and inspiring her to replicate a similar style in her own home. Her favorite room is her front lounge room, which boasts high ceilings, an inviting and cozy atmosphere, and abundant afternoon sunshine. If she could renovate any room, it would be her master bedroom, which remains incomplete after an abandoned wallpaper removal project three years prior. She tends to prioritize work and family over renovations but enjoys DIY projects. Her favorite artwork she owns is "Pear Orchard" in Silver Grey, which hangs in her home and is also available at The Block Shop, alongside its companion piece, "Apple Orchard." Her most treasured possession is a drafting table her husband gifted her for her 40th birthday, and she also cherishes her growing collection of Mister Zimi pieces for their fun and colorful reflection of her personality. A perfect Sunday afternoon for Jane involves spending time with family and friends in the sunshine, enjoying good champagne and food. She is currently expanding her business by applying her art to new products, such as her recently launched "Rainbow Arch" wall decal collection, based on her "Rainbow Warrior" artwork featured on The Block, with plans to grow her wall decal range and develop other products. #ArtistSpotlight #JaneHarris #PickAPear #TheBlock #HomeDecor #ArtPrints #WallDecals #RainbowArtwork #InteriorStyling

This lookbook presents ten interior design projects that demonstrate the effective use of colour theory to create vibrant and dynamic spaces. The article highlights two primary approaches: using analogous colours, which are adjacent on the colour wheel, and complementary colours, which are opposite each other, a technique often referred to as colour-blocking. This latter method, popularized by Dutch artist Piet Mondrian, has transcended art to influence fashion and interior design. Each featured project showcases how designers apply these principles to transform various spaces, from residential apartments to commercial establishments and university facilities. The examples begin with Bun, a Milanese burger restaurant designed by Masquespacio, which employs lilac and avocado green to delineate different functional areas, creating a youthful ambiance. Another Masquespacio project, the Resa San Mamés student accommodation in Bilbao, challenges conventional colour pairings by using baby pink seating with dark red walls, demonstrating how analogous colours can create warmth and an inviting community feel. This project specifically showcases pink and red together, illustrating that colors not traditionally paired can work cohesively to create a welcoming environment. Sophie Dries's design for a Haussmann-era apartment in Paris features strong colours as a backdrop for a client's street art collection, combining grey cabinets with orangey-red floors, ceilings, and walls. Dries innovatively substitutes the traditional blue complement of orange with dark grey to achieve a unique colour-blocking effect. Similarly, R2 Studio's renovation of a London townhouse uses splashes of blue, orange, yellow, and green, with a kitchen that boldly pairs bright yellow and blue cabinets, alongside orange bar stools and green floors and walls, exemplifying how opposing colors can integrate effectively. Forma's work for Yale University's student radio station employs grey and vibrant orange blocks in recording studios and performance spaces, accented by bright orange chairs, to create visually stimulating environments. Office S&M;’s Mo-tel House in London features a multicoloured staircase with a yellow banister complementing dark blue, invigorated by pink accents, showcasing a bold and vibrant colour palette in a previously dark space. Adi Goodrich's design for Wine and Eggs, a grocery store in Los Angeles, utilizes a checkerboard green and blue floor, green walls, and a blue roof, drawing inspiration from eclectic European grocery stores and integrating plants to enhance the analogous colour scheme. Studio11's workspace in Minsk demonstrates a more subtle application of colour-blocking, with strips of muted plum and teal blue lining the office, complemented by a pale pink kitchen island and delicate grey concrete floors. Wutopia Lab's His House and Her House in Shenzhen, China, explores gender constructs through pink and blue buildings, with interiors reflecting this theme; the blue building, for instance, features green walls and blue ceilings inspired by Henri Matisse. Finally, Adam Nathaniel Furman's Nagatachō Apartment in Tokyo transforms a previously claustrophobic space into a bright, pastel-hued environment with a lilac carpet and complementary colour-blocking seen in bright yellow doors with pale pink borders, likening the aesthetic to icing on a cake. These examples collectively illustrate the versatility and impact of colour theory in interior design, showcasing diverse applications of analogous and complementary colour schemes to create varied moods and functional distinctions within spaces. #InteriorDesign #ColourTheory #ColourBlocking #HomeDecor #ApartmentDesign #CommercialInteriors #VibrantSpaces #Masquespacio #ResidentialDesign

This article explores various ways to incorporate pink into home decor, emphasizing its versatility beyond a 'girly' aesthetic. Pink is presented as a color that consistently trends, offering a comforting and calming presence suitable for many rooms, from living spaces to kitchens. The discussion covers both bold applications and subtle touches, aiming to achieve a chic and contemporary look. The article provides practical suggestions for using pink, beginning with painting techniques. It suggests that instead of painting an entire wall pink, using color blocking, such as a large painted circle behind a headboard, can create a modern effect reminiscent of a rising sun, promoting calm. For those concerned about pink appearing too 'twee,' balancing it with ultra-modern patterned wallpaper, like diagonal stripes or bold geometric designs, is recommended. Painting woodwork in darker hues further enhances the contemporary feel. A perennially popular combination is pink and grey, where a grey wall can be accented with pink through carefully curated gallery walls, simplifying the design process with pre-arranged packs. Moving beyond paint and wallpaper, the article suggests incorporating pink through furniture, such as a statement pink sofa. An L-shaped sofa, for instance, can maximize awkward spaces while adding a touch of luxury. Combining highly pigmented pink with contrasting colors like electric blue and black can create an upbeat and vibrant space. Rugs are presented as another effective way to introduce pink, with geometric designs providing interest, texture, and warmth, especially beneficial in home offices for noise reduction. Pink is also highlighted for its potential to boost productivity and reduce stress, making it suitable for workspaces. The article delves into pink kitchen designs, suggesting pink cabinets for a lasting love of the color. The combination of pink and deep purple cabinets with light wood-paneled walls is praised for its beauty. For budget-conscious individuals, painting existing cabinets pink is offered as an alternative. Yvonne Keal, senior product manager at Hillary's, notes pink's versatility in kitchens, pairing well with soft cream for a romantic look or with rich coppers and dark greens for a vibrant space. Even small touches, such as two contrasting pink cabinets or pink splashback tiles, can elevate the kitchen's aesthetic. Incorporating pink dinnerware is presented as a simple way to add a special touch to dining experiences. For a more sophisticated ambiance, the article suggests pairing pink with black, using elements like bold print rugs and dark fireplace surrounds to ground the room and prevent it from appearing overly 'girly.' Quirky applications, such as pink polka dot wallpaper combined with dark green and vintage furniture, are shown to balance softness with modern edge. Dusky pinks, like Farrow & Ball's Sulking Room Pink, are recommended for a more mature, warmer undertone, especially when paired with crisp whites. This muted pink also works well in kitchens, contrasting with dark cabinets and extending to the ceiling for a cocooning effect. Interior designer Natalia Miyar advises anchoring pink rooms with bold style statements for drama, similar to throwing a leather jacket over a flowery dress, and notes that black serves as an excellent accent color. Pink is also explored as an alternative neutral, with barely-there pink hues seamlessly blending with sage kitchen cabinets and gold accents. Smaller sections of pink tiling can create a feature in breakfast bars or kitchen islands. The combination of pastel pinks with emerald greens, as seen in kitchens with flesh-toned walls and deep blue cabinets, creates an unexpected yet harmonious look. Tongue and groove paneling painted pink can provide character and depth, particularly when complemented by navy cabinets and pink accessories. Window treatments, such as coral pink shutters, offer another avenue for adding a pop of color. In bedrooms, blush pinks and whispering rose colors create a calming and inviting atmosphere, especially when combined with grey tones and metallic accessories. Subtly contrasting shades of pink in color blocking add interest without overpowering the room. Distressed pink walls, achieved with plaster-colored paint or pink wallpaper, offer a sophisticated, unfinished look. For children's rooms, dusky pinks mixed with grey and white provide a stylish, enduring space. Even in bathrooms, painting furniture pink or incorporating a statement free-standing pink bath can elevate the design. Painting the inside of a front door pink adds a subtle splash of color to a hallway. Floral wall murals with dark, moody prints, featuring touches of pink, are highlighted as a current trend. Playful elements like flamingo print wallpaper and pink neon signs are also suggested for adding personality and a unique glow to a room. Finally, traditional-style pink bedrooms can be achieved with classic rose print wallpaper, floral bedspreads, and matching accessories. The article concludes by emphasizing that the key to mastering a pink room that isn't overly feminine lies in combining it with harsher elements for contrast, such as black. The choice of pink shade is crucial, with earthy, organic hues like plaster pink or terracotta providing an understated, grown-up feel while retaining pink's comforting qualities. Complementary colors for pink include green, blue, grey, and neutrals like creams and browns, with white being a personal favorite for many designers due to its ability to bring out pink's nuances. #PinkDecor #InteriorDesign #HomeDecorTrends #RoomIdeas #ColorBlocking #WallpaperIdeas #KitchenDesign #BedroomDecor #ModernInteriors

Wall murals offer a unique and impactful way to decorate interior spaces, transcending the limitations of traditional paint and wallpaper by providing large-scale, artistic designs. This article explores ten distinct wall mural ideas, emphasizing their versatility and transformative potential in various rooms. The concept of a wall mural has evolved beyond hand-painted artworks to include advanced digital printing, making diverse styles accessible. These range from intricate blousy florals and contemporary abstract paintings to scenic landscapes and architectural wonders. The key benefit of murals lies in their ability to create an immersive atmosphere or a striking focal point within a room. One approach involves utilizing a single color with rich texture, exemplified by artist-designed wallcoverings that integrate oriental aesthetics and tactile elements like embossed textures and flock. Such murals, like the Mizumi design from Black Edition in collaboration with Katsutoshi Yuasa, serve as a focal point, with surrounding decor carefully chosen to complement rather than overpower the mural. The article highlights the transformative impact of high-tech digital printing, which has expanded the possibilities for design, offering a vast selection from geometrics and trompe l'oeil to natural motifs and abstract patterns. The choice of mural is presented as a highly personal decision, reflecting the homeowner's mood and personality and the specific characteristics of the room. Another idea focuses on murals that evoke specific scenes or textures, such as a teal and turmeric painted mural reminiscent of the sea, which creates an opulent and elegant backdrop that visually enhances gold accents and other textures. For those seeking dramatic glamor, large-scale, Old Dutch Masters-style floral murals with dark backgrounds are suggested, where coordinating a dominant color from the mural with the room's walls and furniture creates a cohesive and visually rich environment. Murals don't always have to be complex or cover an entire wall. Simple, stylish options like two-tone color blocking, such as Crown Paints' Midnight Navy against teal, can create bold and dramatic design features, extending to woodwork for a fully immersive effect. The article also encourages choosing murals that reflect personal style, suggesting playful and bold patterns like floral or geometric designs for living rooms, and softer, nature-inspired prints in muted tones for bedrooms to foster relaxation. Modern digital printing can also replicate realistic textures, such as marble, offering an impactful feature without the high cost, provided the rest of the decor remains simple to maintain balance. Integrating existing architectural features with bold colors is another innovative idea, using modern geometric color blocks painted over traditional wall paneling, inspired by movements like Bauhaus, to create tonal schemes that introduce warmth and character. Blending old-school aesthetics with new technology allows for the reproduction of historic artworks, like a 1785 garden party scene from Belton House, as wallpaper, which can be accessorized by picking colors from the design. Finally, wall murals are presented as a means to transform a bedroom into a dream-like space, depicting anything from an admired artist's work to a cherished holiday memory. The article concludes that murals are an excellent way to create a dramatic design feature, suitable for any room, including children's rooms. For DIY enthusiasts, creating a simple block-colored mural or even a more intricate design with paint and frog tape is suggested, with the assurance that it can always be repainted if tastes change. #WallMuralIdeas #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #AccentWalls #DigitalPrinting #TexturalMurals #FloralDesigns #GeometricPatterns #ColorBlocking #BedroomDesign

The article focuses on wainscoting as an elegant wall treatment that can transform interiors with a luxurious and vintage appeal. It begins by describing wainscoting as a timeless technique involving the application of panels, moldings, or woodwork to parts of a wall, adding texture, depth, and visual interest. Interior Designer Misbah Kapadia, founder and curator of Design Konstruct, provides insights into different types of wainscoting and their suitability for various rooms. Four distinct types of wainscoting are detailed. Raised panel wainscoting, characterized by its classic and formal look, is recommended for dining rooms, entryways, and living areas to impart a sense of grandeur. Flat panel or shaker style wainscoting offers a clean and minimalist aesthetic, making it an appropriate choice for contemporary bedrooms, offices, or hallways. Beadboard wainscoting, with its narrow, vertical planks, is suggested for creating a cozy, cottage-inspired feel in kitchens, bathrooms, or mudrooms, adding warmth and charm. Lastly, board and batten wainscoting, known for its bold, geometric patterns, is ideal for generating striking visual drama in hallways, staircases, or on statement walls. The article also emphasizes the critical role of color and finish in maximizing the impact of wainscoting. For colors, soft neutrals such as white, beige, and greige are advised for an airy and timeless look, while deeper hues like navy, forest green, or charcoal can add richness and sophistication. A two-tone effect, where darker wainscoting is paired with a lighter upper wall, is presented as a method to create additional visual interest. Regarding finishes, matte is recommended for a modern, understated appearance, whereas satin or semi-gloss finishes are highlighted for their subtle sheen and enhanced durability, making them practical for high-traffic areas. The expert advice aims to guide readers in selecting and applying wainscoting to achieve desired aesthetic outcomes in their living spaces. #Wainscoting #InteriorDesign #WallTreatments #HomeDecor #AestheticInteriors #DesignTips #MisbahKapadia

This article explores 29 inspiring paint ideas for walls, offering clever, inexpensive, and simple ways to transform the look of any home. It emphasizes that paint is an accessible method to embrace new trends and achieve a contemporary aesthetic. Nadia Watts, founder of Nadia Watts Interior Design, highlights the return of bold colors and earth-inspired, matte surfaces, alongside contrasting tones like burnt orange, burgundy, coral pink, and mustard, and metallic accents such as copper, steel grey, and brass, all capable of making a significant impact when applied with the right techniques. The article begins by discussing artisanal paint applications like lime wash or Roman clay to achieve a rustic feel, drawing parallels to modern rustic decor. Amy Youngblood explains how mixing plaster of Paris with paint creates a unique custom look, while Jamie Davis of Portola Paints describes Roman clay's subtle, organic, marble-like effect. For homes without exposed brick, the article suggests using rust-red paint to imitate the look, noting its boldness can be softened when paired with warm neutrals, as demonstrated in a bedroom design by Liz Hoekzema of KLH Homes. Color drenching is presented as a method to use bold colors minimally by applying a single hue throughout a room, including walls, ceilings, trim, doors, and windows, reducing visual clutter and emphasizing the color itself. Nicole Ficano from Workshop APD illustrates this with an all-blue bedroom. The piece also details how paint can create architectural interest, such as painted arches used by Urbanology Designs to add a focal point and Erika Woelfel of Behr Paint Company. Painted staircases are shown as a way to enhance transitional spaces, with Sabrina Panizza and Aude Lerin of PL Studio using vibrant blue to create a Moroccan-inspired entryway. Zoning spaces with color is another key idea, where different tones define specific areas or connect rooms, as seen in Gonzalo Pardo's use of terracotta to link interior and exterior aesthetics. Painting interior doors in bold or calming hues can add drama or tranquility, depending on the room's function, with oil-based or gloss/semi-gloss paints recommended for durability by PL Studio designers. Dark-painted walls are proposed as a sophisticated backdrop to highlight artwork, creating a gallery-like effect, as demonstrated by Barbra Bright Design. Whimsy can be introduced through pastels and half-painted walls, an alternative to wall paneling, creating new dimensions, as in a psychologist's cabinet designed by PL Studio with soft pink walls and cloud-painted ceilings. Metallic paints like gold leafing add luxury, reflecting patinas and finishes from existing decor, as described by Jeremiah Brent. Outdoor paint is highlighted for creating colorful backyards, with Jess Piddock of King Celia Studio painting exterior walls in peachy pink. For those hesitant about full-room color commitment, painting only a room's entryway in a bold color while keeping the rest neutral is suggested by Sophie Chapman of The Vawdry House. Making a bold statement with trim, rather than just walls, is explored, with Emilie Munroe of Studio Munroe and Irene Astrain of Astrain Scheldt Architects using contrasting trim colors to provide visual relief. Modern murals are discussed as a way to integrate art into architecture, with Florence Bamberger's frescoes inspired by a home's surroundings. Painting ceilings, moving beyond plain white, is presented as a popular trend to create a serene or bold effect, as seen in an aqua-blue ceiling by Emilie Munroe. Color blocking, using abstract shapes, is showcased by Zero9 to zone rooms and complement furniture. Combining paint with paneling allows for a fresh take on traditional styles, and painting stripes creates whimsical patterns, as Annie Sloan demonstrates. Painting built-ins to match walls in a color-drenching style creates a cocoon-like sense of security, as Lia McNairy of LALA Reimagined explains. Two-tone walls with dado rails offer depth and detail, and matching skirting boards with wallpaper provides an easy update, according to Octavia Dickinson. Color contrasting adjoining rooms creates a flow of hues, with Natalie Tredgett suggesting warmer colors for drawing attention. Ombre applications blend multiple shades for a gradient effect, and layering different whites with varying finishes can create a sophisticated, gallery-like interior, exemplified by Caroline Feiffer's white kitchen. Painting window frames and embracing glossy finishes, as seen in Fettle Design's restaurant project, offer further avenues for creative expression. Lastly, giving old floorboards a new lease on life with paint, reviving old furniture, and even embracing raw plaster finishes for a subtle, earthy wash of color, as done by Holloway Li Interior Architects, round out the comprehensive list of paint ideas. The article concludes with advice on choosing paint brands, starting a painting project, and using painter's tape for various effects, alongside product recommendations. #PaintIdeas #InteriorDesign #WallPaint #ColorDrenching #ModernHomes #ArchitecturalDetails #DIYHomeDecor #RusticDecor #ColorBlocking

The article explores the resurgence of intricate floral block prints as a prominent design trend, positing them as the successor to the recent checkerboard pattern phenomenon. Block printing, an ancient technique originating in China and later adopted by Indian artisans, involves hand-carved embossed wood dipped in dyes and repeatedly pressed onto fabric or paper. Despite its thousands of years of history, contemporary designers and brands are revitalizing this craft with a modern twist. Several factors contribute to this renewed popularity. Poonam Abbi, co-founder of Sustainable Threads, a fair-trade social enterprise specializing in block-printed pieces, attributes the uptick in sales to the pattern’s imperfect, handmade nature. She suggests that the pandemic encouraged introspection, leading consumers to value the origins, craftsmanship, and ethical implications of their purchases. Sustainable Threads collaborates with traditional artisans and marginalized individuals, further imbuing its products with a narrative of social impact. Sarah Zellweger of SZ Block Prints, whose brand has grown significantly, echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the luxury of handcrafted products and the discernible effort invested in them. Zellweger highlights the versatility of block printing, noting its ability to blend classic and contemporary designs through the mixing and matching of heritage prints with new interpretations. Her brand's reversible blankets and strategic color combinations exemplify how traditional techniques can be adapted for modern aesthetics, integrating seamlessly into various home decor styles, from traditional to minimalist. The aesthetic appeal of block prints is further amplified by their adaptability. Sustainable Threads, for instance, is recognized for its geometric patterns and neutral colors, offering modern takes on classic artisan designs that complement diverse home furnishings. Another contributing factor to the trend's momentum is the influence of social media. Katharine Watson, who established her block-printing studio in 2009, observes a shift towards maximalism online. She notes that after a period dominated by neutrals and simple designs, there is a growing desire among consumers for bolder patterns and vibrant colors, a demand that block prints are well-positioned to meet. The article also features several examples of how block prints are being incorporated into home decor, showcasing products like block-printed napkins, tablecloths, throws, quilts, and pillows. These items illustrate the wide application of the pattern in various domestic settings, reinforcing its growing presence in interior design. #BlockPrints #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #PatternTrends #HandmadeCrafts #SustainableDesign #TextileArt #GlobalInfluence

The article discusses how to add personality to a home by using vibrant feature walls, emphasizing careful consideration of the room's purpose before selecting a color. For instance, children's rooms can accommodate experimental colors, while master bedrooms require a more muted palette to promote relaxation. The article showcases several favorite feature wall ideas, starting with 'Call it the blues' which highlights indigo blue as a trending color for 2016. It demonstrates how this dark and moody shade can be effectively used in a child's bedroom when paired with ice-white furniture and colorful artwork. The next idea, 'Adventures in teal,' suggests that aquamarine can create a beautiful and lively atmosphere. It illustrates this by painting two alcoves in a vibrant teal, complemented by damask wallpaper and teal cushions to create a cohesive scheme. 'Luxurious lilac' presents a cool lilac feature wall in a country-style kitchen diner. To prevent the block color from being overpowering, the design incorporates tongue and groove paneling, with the lilac paint applied above it. For bedrooms, 'Perfect pink' recommends applying a strong, muted pink to the wall next to the bed, rather than behind it, and pairing it with warm wood furniture for a harmonious look. 'Glorious green' focuses on the calming effect of green, suggesting sophisticated shades like Spearmint Haze by Valspar. It highlights green's versatility in complementing various color palettes. 'Passion for purple' encourages a bold approach with an eye-popping purple feature wall for dramatic effect. The advice is to keep the rest of the decor neutral to allow the vibrant purple to stand out. Finally, 'Black in business' advocates for the use of black as a strong and dramatic backdrop, illustrating its effectiveness with a striking walnut armoire. #FeatureWall #ColorPalette #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #PaintColors #RoomDecor #AccentWall

The "Portable Wall" collection, designed by Warsaw-based designer Maria Jeglinska, introduces a novel approach to room dividers, moving beyond traditional functionality to offer aesthetic versatility through bold color and geometric forms. Commissioned by the Museum of Applied Arts in Budapest in collaboration with the Adam Mickiewicz Institute, this collection is a highlight of the "In Circulation" exhibition series. This series challenges designers to draw inspiration from existing items within the museum's extensive collection to create contemporary pieces. Jeglinska, the founder of Office for Design & Research, found her inspiration in a 1969 armchair by Sándor Mikó. Mikó originally designed this armchair as part of his interior scheme for Te + Én Espresso, a café in Budapest. Jeglinska's reinterpretation of this historical piece aims to create abstract forms that offer freedom in arrangement and use, rather than dictating a specific function. The collection features freestanding horizontal and vertical surfaces, each characterized by its vibrant color palette and distinctive geometric shapes. A key design element that directly links Jeglinska's Portable Wall collection to Mikó’s armchair is the distinctive feet of the panels. These feet are not only a direct homage to the original armchair's design but also playfully suggest the idea of movement, emphasizing the portable nature and reconfigurability of the wall units. This design choice underscores the collection's intent to be dynamic and adaptable within various spaces. The exhibition, titled "In Circulation: Maria Jeglinska," is curated by Judit Horváth and Agnieszka Jacobson-Cielecka. It showcases Jeglinska’s innovative design solutions and her ability to transform historical design influences into modern, functional art pieces. The collection highlights how design can evolve by recontextualizing historical objects and injecting them with contemporary flair. The exhibition ran through June 9th at the Museum of Applied Arts in Budapest, offering visitors an opportunity to experience these unique and adaptable design elements firsthand. The Portable Wall collection represents a blend of historical reverence and modern innovation. By taking a piece of furniture from the past and deconstructing its essence—its form, its use, and its implied movement—Jeglinska has created a series of objects that challenge conventional notions of space division. These portable walls are not merely functional barriers; they are expressive pieces that can transform an environment through their presence, color, and geometric interplay. They serve as an example of how historical design can continue to inspire new interpretations and practical applications in contemporary interior spaces. #PortableWalls #MariaJeglinska #InteriorDesign #GeometricDesign #BoldColor #MuseumOfAppliedArts #DesignExhibition #SándorMikó #RoomDivider

This article explores creative and contemporary approaches to using two-tone paint on walls, moving beyond traditional color blocking to inspire dynamic and visually interesting interior designs. The two-tone paint trend, while not new, is being reinterpreted by designers and paint experts to offer versatile solutions for various home styles. The technique is particularly effective in traditional homes, where architectural features like picture rails or dado rails can serve as natural dividing lines for paint colors, providing definition and highlighting the room's structure. For newer, more box-like constructions, two-tone walls can introduce much-needed interest and depth. The article presents nine distinct methods for incorporating this trend. One approach involves creating subtle contrast with pastel shades. This method uses softer color palettes, such as a beige-pink paired with a baby blue, to highlight architectural details in a contemporary space without being overly bold. This provides a gentler introduction to the two-tone effect for those seeking a less dramatic change. Another technique focuses on making doors a standout feature by painting them in a contrasting color to the surrounding walls. This method extends to other architectural elements like beams, chimney breasts, and window casings, drawing immediate attention to these unique aspects of a home. It also suggests embracing dropped or angled ceilings as natural breaking points for two-tone designs. Utilizing slatted panels can also achieve a two-tone effect. While not strictly two paint colors, the shadows cast by the ridges of slatted walls create a textural and dynamic visual, especially when set against a lighter shade as a feature wall. The article encourages experimenting with shapes beyond simple stripes, suggesting geometric designs to play with proportion and focus. For instance, a red accent in a corner can highlight a specific area and draw attention to artfully arranged vignettes, making a bolder statement. Shannon Askinasi, an interior designer, notes that bedrooms are ideal spaces for geometric looks, especially with vibrant color combinations like oranges, blues, and pinks. Paneling offers a natural break for two-tone paint, allowing for an elevated and more dimensional feel. If wainscoting is present, it serves as an inherent dividing line. In rooms without such features, a general guideline is to divide the wall into thirds, painting the bottom two-thirds one color and the top third another. Alcoves and recesses, like shelving units, provide excellent opportunities to introduce a second color. Painting the interior of these spaces in a contrasting or complementary shade, often separated by neutral cabinetry, creates an elegant effect and can draw attention to displayed items. Outlining edges with paint or wallpaper borders is another creative option. This method, exemplified by highlighting room contours, can be replicated with paint to achieve an interesting two-tone scheme, potentially incorporating textured finishes like pink plaster with coral paint. Bringing the ceiling color down onto the wall is a classic painted ceiling idea that also functions as a two-tone wall hack. This can be done by painting the ceiling and a portion of the wall in the same color, or by using a contrasting hue for a bolder statement, balancing it with other elements in the room. Finally, maintaining a palette within the same color family is recommended for a literal tonal approach. Using a shade lighter or darker than the base paint for the second color is particularly effective in older properties with elegant architectural features, such as highlighting crown moldings with different tones of white paint. #TwoTonePaint #InteriorDesign #PaintIdeas #ColorBlocking #WallDecor #HomeImprovement #ArchitecturalFeatures #ColorPalettes #ModernInteriors