When They Couldn’t Find the Perfect Wallpaper, These Parents Painted Their Own

Soldani Projects, a Sydney-based family business, specializes in premium Venetian plaster wall finishes, microcement, and feature walls, offering bespoke and eco-friendly artistry for sophisticated interiors. The owner, Alfonso Soldani, brings a wealth of experience from his native Italy, emphasizing the use of genuine, low-VOC Italian lime in their materials, ensuring durability and an authentic finish that distinguishes their work from competitors. The process begins with a collaborative approach, where Alfonso and his wife and business partner, Teresa, meet clients on-site to understand their vision and tailor solutions. During these consultations, they discuss color palettes, often referencing Dulux-accredited options, and create sample boards to demonstrate how different finishes will appear in the specific space. This detailed approach ensures that each project is customized to the client's preferences and the architectural context of their home. Soldani Projects offers a diverse range of finishes and textures, blending traditional Italian craftsmanship with Australian aesthetic sensibilities. Their offerings include the highly reflective Classic Venetian plaster, which imparts a luxurious sheen; the traditional decorative Travertino, known for its earthy, textured appearance; and the subtle matt Marmorino, which provides a sophisticated, understated elegance. A new addition to their collection is Volterra, a coarse-grain Marmorino designed to mimic the rough stone texture often seen in terrazzo, offering a contemporary yet timeless appeal. Beyond plaster, the company also specializes in microcement applications, which are increasingly popular for various surfaces such as bathrooms, alfresco areas, stairs, and even custom-made dining tables, due to its seamless and durable properties. Feature walls are another area of expertise, with Alfonso noting their capacity to dramatically alter the mood and character of a room. The creation of these exquisite wall finishes is a meticulous, hand-crafted process. Alfonso emphasizes that each application is done by hand with a trowel, requiring not only skill but also a deep passion for the craft. As an Italian, Alfonso embodies this passion, continuously striving for uniqueness and refining his techniques to achieve flawless, lustrous results. This dedication to artistry and quality is evident in every project, transforming ordinary walls into captivating works of art that tell a story of tradition, precision, and artistic commitment. The company prides itself on delivering high-end interior solutions that combine aesthetic appeal with environmental consciousness, using materials that are both beautiful and sustainable. #VenetianPlaster #InteriorDesign #WallFinishes #Microcement #LuxuryInteriors #EcoFriendlyMaterials #HomeDecor #ArtisanCraftsmanship

Rachel and Nick Cope, the husband-and-wife team behind Calico Wallpaper, discuss the inception and growth of their bespoke wallpaper company. The idea for Calico Wallpaper emerged from Rachel's background in design and sculpture, where she initially explored unique art installations. Nick, with his entrepreneurial spirit, recognized the potential to transform these artistic concepts into a commercial product, specifically wallpaper. Their first collection, Wabi, was inspired by ancient Japanese marbling techniques and the aesthetic principle of finding beauty in imperfection. This collection helped establish their brand identity, focusing on art-inspired, custom, and hand-finished designs that differentiate them from traditional wallpaper manufacturers. The Copes emphasize the importance of collaboration and leveraging their complementary skill sets. Rachel focuses on the creative direction and artistic development of new collections, experimenting with various art forms like watercolors and photography. Nick handles the business operations, including production, marketing, and client relations. This division of labor allows them to maintain both artistic integrity and business efficiency. They have expanded their team to include specialists in different areas, ensuring that all aspects of their company, from design to production and sales, are managed effectively. Their approach to design involves an organic process of artistic exploration, followed by a meticulous translation of these artworks into scalable wallpaper patterns. They aim to create installations that are both unique and timeless, suitable for various interior spaces. The couple highlights the challenges of balancing artistic freedom with market demands, noting that their dedication to quality and customization has been a key factor in their success. They work closely with clients, including interior designers and architects, to develop tailored solutions that meet specific project requirements, ensuring that each installation is a unique piece of art. Calico Wallpaper has gained recognition for its innovative designs and commitment to craftsmanship, attracting a high-end clientele. The Copes advise aspiring entrepreneurs in creative fields to build a strong network, seek mentorship, and understand the practicalities of business beyond artistic passion. They stress the importance of financial planning, legal knowledge, and effective marketing strategies. For them, success is not just about creating beautiful products but also about building a sustainable business that allows their art to flourish and reach a broader audience. The company’s philosophy extends to understanding the evolving market and consumer preferences. They continuously research new materials, techniques, and design trends while staying true to their core artistic vision. This adaptability, combined with their hands-on approach and dedication to customer satisfaction, has enabled Calico Wallpaper to maintain its position as a leader in the luxury wallpaper market. They view their work as a continuous journey of learning and innovation, where each project presents an opportunity to refine their craft and expand their creative horizons. #CalicoWallpaper #ArtAndBusiness #CreativeEntrepreneurship #DesignProcess #CustomWallpaper #ArtInspiredDesign #LuxuryInteriors #WabiCollection

The article details the renovation journey of magazine editor Elizabeth Kiefer and her husband, Andrew Tejerina, as they transformed their 1901 cottage in Tivoli, New York. The couple faced initial challenges in selecting paint colors for their nearly 1,100-square-foot, two-bedroom home, which they purchased in February 2020. A primary goal was to replace the existing "Home Depot orange" wainscoting with a more streamlined yet personalized aesthetic, avoiding both stark minimalism and overly eclectic designs. A key decision that guided their color palette was exclusively choosing paints from Benjamin Moore’s Williamsburg collection. This predetermined range of historical shades provided a cohesive and soft look, aligning with Kiefer's preference for a traditional style. This approach helped them navigate the extensive options and make informed choices for various rooms within their cottage. In the living room, they opted for Benjamin Moore's Harwood Putty on the walls, describing it as a soothing color. To enhance the upstate cozy ambiance, they installed a wood-burning stove. Furnishings in this space included floor samples like a green velvet sofa from Hammertown Barn and various vintage pieces. Their Samsung Frame TV was integrated to blend seamlessly with other art collected over time. The kitchen presented a minor setback when their initial choice of Tranquil Blue to cover dated avocado cabinets proved unsuitable. After applying one coat, they realized the color was not as calming as expected and pivoted to a greige shade, demonstrating a willingness to experiment and adjust. This experience reinforced Kiefer's philosophy of embracing experimentation in design, noting that changing a paint color only costs a sample. For more complex design issues, Kiefer sought advice from her friend, Leah Ring of Another Human. This collaboration influenced decisions such as selecting a Cole & Son wallpaper featuring sweet pea flowers for their daughter Violet's room. In the primary bedroom, a sunny yellow on the closet doors created a contrast with a vibrant pinky-red rug and blue floors, showcasing a bold use of color. The couple also employed a strategy of painting areas white when indecisive about a color. This allowed them to envision possibilities with a clean slate before committing to a hue. Consequently, the upstairs bathroom and hardwood floors, initially painted white, were eventually transformed with a soothing blue from the Williamsburg collection, specifically Williamsburg Wythe Blue. Beyond paint, furniture acquisition involved a mix of roadside estate sales and finds from the Antiques Warehouse Hudson, such as a $50 desk painted black and a hutch for the dining room. The overall design achieved an unfussy yet cool aesthetic, distinct from a full "cottagecore" style, creating a comfortable and functional home for their family. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #ColorPalette #BenjaminMoore #CottageStyle #DIYDesign #VintageDecor #PaintChoices #UpstateLiving

Interior designer Sarah Dorsey opted for a unique and cost-effective approach to decorating her newborn son's nursery, choosing a subtle painted pattern over traditional wallpaper. Having recently painted her entire 1980 post-and-beam contemporary home in Washington, D.C., a crisp white to highlight its architectural features, she sought a nursery design that would complement this aesthetic without overwhelming it. The goal was to create an inviting, adaptable space for her son that would grow with him. Dorsey, a mother of two, conceptualized a loosely planned design utilizing a light palette of blues and tans, intended to harmonize with the room's geometric architecture. She deliberately avoided precise measurements, allowing for a faster and more organic, hand-painted appearance. This informal approach significantly reduced the project's completion time, taking less than 10 hours, executed primarily during her children's nap times. The total cost for this DIY project was notably under $500. The project involved four main steps, beginning with planning the design's placement on the walls. Instead of a structured grid, Dorsey chose an eyeballed pattern, alternating horizontal and vertical groupings of three 10-inch lines. This method ensured a natural, less rigid final look. The second step focused on creating stencils using painter's tape. Dorsey detailed a process for cutting precise 10-inch strips of Frog Tape, along with shorter 5-inch and 2-inch strips for wall edges, to create the illusion of the pattern extending beyond the wall. The third step involved preparing the area and applying the tape to the walls. Dorsey placed the tape strips in groups of three, alternating their orientation. She emphasized using an 8-inch handheld level to ensure the strips were straight before fully securing them. The flexibility of painter's tape allowed for easy adjustments until the overall composition was satisfactory. The final step was the painting process. After laying down a drop cloth, Dorsey prepared her paint and brush. She advised dipping only the tips of the bristles in paint, or thinning thick paint with water, to achieve a smooth application without drips. The technique involved running the brush along the edge of the tape, with half the bristles on the tape and half on the wall, dragging the heel of the hand for steady strokes. This method created a crisp line on the inner edge of the design while leaving a hand-painted texture on the outside. Once all tape outlines were traced and the paint dried, the tape was removed, revealing the new patterned walls. This DIY approach provided an affordable and personalized solution for creating an engaging nursery environment that can adapt as the child grows, without the permanence or expense of wallpaper. The project demonstrates how simple materials and a creative vision can transform a space, making it a bright and happy room that complements the existing architectural elements of a home. #NurseryDesign #DIYHomeDecor #PaintersTapeProjects #KidsRooms #InteriorDesign #BudgetFriendlyDecor #HandPaintedWalls #HomeRenovation

The choice of paint color for a nursery is a significant design decision for expectant parents. Traditionally, options were largely confined to blue, pink, or yellow. However, a recent trend analysis from Babysense in 2022 indicates a shift in popular nursery colors. Green has emerged as the top choice, showing a 17 percent increase in Pinterest searches over the preceding year. This surge in popularity positions green above the previously favored white and black tones from 2021. Green's appeal lies in its nature-inspired qualities, offering a balance of brightness and soothing aesthetics. Furthermore, it avoids the traditional gender stereotypes often associated with blue and pink, aligning with a growing priority for new parents in 2022 to create gender-neutral spaces for their children. The article then explores three distinct and unconventional approaches to incorporating green into children's rooms, moving beyond a simple solid paint application on the walls. One method involves the use of stripes, as demonstrated in Kitty Patterson’s nursery. Wide stripes of mint green are alternated with pale blue, creating a whimsical yet understated backdrop. Patterson noted that painting stripes is less effort-intensive and less permanent than wallpaper, making it a flexible design choice. The striped walls are complemented by solid green trim and doors, contributing to a bold and enchanting atmosphere that precisely matched Patterson’s vision. Another approach highlights the use of patterned wallpaper. In a nursery designed by Amber Sokolowski for her son, Liev, a vine-print wallpaper with an animal motif is featured. This wallpaper, set against a white background, offers a subtle integration of green. The leafy pattern effectively ties together various themed details within the room without overwhelming the space with a solid block of color. The third method showcases green in a supporting role through "just a trim" application. Fashion designer Brandon Maxwell, when designing a nursery for his sister, utilized emerald green to create British racing stripes. These stripes were formed using sticky-backed velvet applied to wood beams, strategically covering the nails of a "puffy" wall installation. This technique demonstrates how green can be incorporated in a sophisticated and subtle manner, acting as an accent rather than the dominant color, adding a touch of elegance and detail to the overall design. #NurseryDesign #GreenNursery #NurseryTrends2022 #KidsRooms #InteriorDesign #PaintColorTrends #GenderNeutralNursery #WallDecor #HomeDecoration

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

A mother recently showcased an innovative and budget-friendly approach to home decoration by creating a striking feature wall in her bedroom using wallpaper samples. This project, which she shared on the Facebook group 'Extreme DIY & Life Hacks,' demonstrates how to achieve a stylish interior design trend without incurring significant costs. The inspiration for this creative endeavor came from an online article about utilizing free wallpaper samples for interior design. The woman, alongside her mother, successfully completed the project in a single day, highlighting its accessibility and efficiency. The process involved selecting a variety of grey, purple, and light blue wallpaper samples, primarily sourced from B&M and The Range. These colors were chosen to complement the existing turquoise walls of the bedroom, creating a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing palette. The mother detailed that the initial step involved painting the wall underneath the designated feature area. Following this, hexagon-shaped shelves were employed as templates to meticulously cut the wallpaper samples into the desired hexagonal forms. These cutouts were then adhered to the wall using glue. The project was divided into two main phases. The first phase focused on arranging and attaching the full hexagonal wallpaper pieces, which took approximately two and a half hours to complete. After a short break, the second phase involved filling in the remaining spaces around the edges of the feature wall with half-hexagonal cutouts, taking another two hours. The total time invested in creating this visually impactful wall was approximately four and a half hours, underscoring the rapid transformation achievable with this method. Upon sharing her accomplishment, the mother received widespread positive feedback from other members of the online community. Commenters expressed admiration for the design, particularly appreciating the careful cutting of specific patterns, such as roses, to maintain their integrity within the hexagonal shapes. The project was lauded for its uniqueness and the gorgeous selection of wallpapers used. This DIY approach not only resulted in an impressive decorative element but also proved to be a significantly more economical alternative to traditional feature wall installations, which can often be expensive. This method exemplifies a growing trend in home decor where individuals leverage readily available and inexpensive materials to personalize their living spaces. The success of this project also highlights the potential for creative collaboration, as the mother and daughter worked together to achieve the desired outcome. The overall sentiment from the online community further validates the appeal and effectiveness of such DIY home improvement solutions, especially when executed with creativity and attention to detail. This particular project's success has inspired others, including the mum's own daughter, to consider similar transformations for their rooms, demonstrating its inspirational value. #DIYHomeDecor #FeatureWall #WallpaperSamples #BudgetDecor #BedroomDesign #HomeHacks #InteriorDesign #CreativeDecor

London-based designer Emma Stevenson believes that ceilings deserve as much attention as walls, flooring, and furnishings, advocating against the common practice of leaving them as plain white surfaces. This philosophy is evident in the vibrant and imaginatively designed bedrooms of her four children: Oscar (11), Georgia (10), Errol (8), and Teddy (6). After relocating to an elegant townhouse in Notting Hill in 2022, following a period of living in rentals, Stevenson prioritized involving her children in the design process, allowing them to personalize their spaces and reclaim a sense of stability. The result is a collection of four distinct and magical childhood escapes, each reflecting its occupant's personality and interests. For her daughter Georgia, who is captivated by ponies, Stevenson transformed Georgia's own drawings into bespoke wallpaper, a process she tailored by digitally adjusting the color palette to exclude primary colors she disliked without her daughter noticing. This custom approach allowed for a truly unique and personal space. The two younger boys, Errol and Teddy, shared a desire for a jungle-themed room. Stevenson presented them with three wallpaper options, and they unanimously selected a hand-painted safari motif. Oscar, the eldest, opted for a personalized mural, drawing inspiration from an online design but customizing it with his favorite characters and foods, which was then brought to life by a professional artist. Stevenson also incorporates vintage elements, often scouring Etsy and eBay for unique, end-of-roll wallpapers. This strategy ensures originality, as seen in the bright blue bathroom featuring an 80s-era Mr. Men print. She notes that vintage papers often have a distinct textural quality compared to modern options. To protect this unique wallpaper, a piece of glass will be installed behind the sink. In the same bathroom, to address existing yellowing laminate tiles and a quirky layout, Stevenson applied jaunty rainbow stripes directly onto the floor after a fresh white base coat, demonstrating a cost-effective hack for transforming surfaces. The bedrooms feature beige wool carpets with subtle flecks of blue, red, yellow, and green yarns, designed to naturally complement the diverse color schemes of each room. Stevenson prefers natural fibers for children's rooms, acknowledging they may not be the most hard-wearing but appreciate their organic aging process. Above, ceilings are given special treatment. Oscar’s room boasts a vibrant blue painted ceiling, while the younger boys' room incorporates whimsical light fixtures to draw the eye upwards. Georgia's room, however, features a truly unique element: a _plissé soleil_ (sunray pleats) finish on the ceiling, created using the same pinkish-red ticking stripe fabric found in her bed niche. This intricate technique, reminiscent of designs Stevenson encountered in her childhood in France, was executed by a commissioned artisan and had a remarkable effect on Georgia's sleep patterns, highlighting the profound impact of interior design on well-being. #KidsRooms #InteriorDesign #CustomWallpaper #CeilingDesign #ChildrensBedrooms #ThemedRooms #VintageDecor #DIYHomeDecor #CreativeSpaces

The article presents a curated list of 22 wall decals designed for children's rooms, offering a temporary and cost-effective alternative to painting. These decals are intended to inspire creativity and personalize a child's space without the permanence of traditional decor, catering to their evolving interests. The selection ranges from small stickers to large murals, with many options being appealing to adults as well. Featured products include an "Animal World Map Kids Wall Decals" from DECOWALL, available on Amazon, which encourages learning about animals and geography. KennaSatoDesigns offers "Sprinkle Wall Decals" on Etsy, a popular choice for adding a playful touch that is easy to apply and reposition. Urbanwalls' "Twinkle Stars Wall Decals," sold at Pottery Barn Kids, provides an array of colors for an enchanting, easy-to-apply celestial theme. GingerMonkeyPL's "Watercolor Planet Wall Decals" from Etsy allow for the creation of a universe-themed room. For unique decor, Ebern Designs presents a "Holographic Circle Peel and Stick Wall Decal" on Wayfair, featuring a bubble-like silhouette. decalmile's "Under The Sea Decals" on Amazon are ideal for an aquatic-themed playroom. West Elm offers "Confetti Dots Wall Decals" to create a festive atmosphere with colorful polka dots. PearlWalls' "Mountain Wall Decal" on Etsy transforms a wall into an outdoor landscape, praised for its quality and customizable color schemes. ShopMejMej's "Fabric Cloud Wall Decals" on Etsy provide a soft touch for children's bedrooms. GingerMonkeyPL's "Greenery Garden Corner Wall Decal," also from Etsy, suits both baby and plant nurseries. SimpleShapes offers "Wild Animal Wall Decals" on Etsy, allowing children to create their own jungle. PearlWalls' "Rocket Wall Decal" on Etsy caters to aspiring astronauts with a space-themed mural. ShopMejMej's "Toucan Fabric Wall Decal" adds a tropical vibe, while StudioPicco's "Constellation Wall Decals" from Amazon can turn a room into a night sky when applied to a dark blue wall. ShopMejMej's "Spruce Forest Fabric Wall Decal Kit" on Etsy helps create a fairytale forest. MadeofSundays' "Ice Cream Cone Wall Decals" on Etsy offer a sweet pastel theme. pinknbluebaby's "Bees and Flowers Wall Decals" on Etsy provide customizable floral and insect designs. GingerMonkeyPL's "Watercolor Dinosaur Wall Decal Set" on Etsy is suitable for budding paleontologists. ShopMejMej's "Giant Whale Fabric Wall Decal" on Etsy offers an immersive underwater experience, combinable with other marine-themed decals. MadeofSundays' "Pink Watercolor Bird Wall Decals" on Etsy create a delicate bird flock illusion. Lastly, additional options include a "Bear Door Decal" from LillyRoseShoppe and a "Giraffe Wall Decal" from LittleTallTalesStore, both providing whimsical touches for a child's space. #KidsRoomDecor #WallDecals #TemporaryDecor #HomeDecor #ChildrensDecor #DIYKidsRoom #RemovableWallpaper #NurseryDecor #PlayroomIdeas

The article focuses on selecting wall art for children's rooms that can adapt to their changing tastes as they grow, aiming to reduce the need for frequent redecorating. It emphasizes choosing pieces that offer personality without being overly specific to a particular childhood phase. The selections avoid popular characters, which children tend to outgrow quickly, and instead highlight designs with vibrant colors, interesting shapes, and versatile sizes that can be mixed and matched. One featured item is the "Fun & Games Framed Print" from West Elm and Minted. This domino-themed print is designed to be appealing to both younger children and older kids, available in various frame finishes and sizes to suit different room aesthetics. Another recommendation is the "Playful Art Gallery Wall" from DESENIO, which provides a customizable collection of prints. This allows parents to curate a display that can evolve over time, either by purchasing the entire set or by selecting individual pieces. PSTR Studio's "Enikő Eged - Horses of Wadi Rum" print is presented as a minimalist yet bold option. Printed on museum-quality paper, this artwork is suitable for playrooms and bedrooms and comes with multiple frame color choices, including orange, pink, and green. For a more interactive and functional option, the "Shape Play by Elizabeth Olwen" from Felt Right offers felt shapes that not only add visual interest but also help to reduce noise and echo in a room, with the flexibility to be arranged in various configurations. The article also suggests the "Calming Dots Posters Bundle" from Etsy, which offers a set of six digital art files. This provides parents with the flexibility to print the artwork at home or through a print service, allowing for customization in size and medium. For a more contemporary and striking look, the "Handmade Modern Abstract Wall Decor on Acrylic" from Wayfair is highlighted for its ability to reflect light and add significant color to a room. For those with a penchant for vintage or specific themes, the "Surfin' Wheels II Wall Art" from Great Big Canvas, designed by Paul McCreery, offers a retro-inspired canvas print depicting a jeep with a surfboard. This piece is presented as a durable option that can remain relevant for years, especially for children interested in beaches or cars. A timeless choice, "Super Shadow" by Andy Okay, features an image of Batman, appealing to a broad age range. Proceeds from this art, a collaboration with Jason Ratliff and the Non-Violence Project, also support charity. Banksy's "Dream Big Dreams" print, available through Paints Lab, is another recommendation for its broad appeal across all ages. Additionally, the "Pink Modern Gummy Candy" canvas print from Stupell Industries on Wayfair transforms a childhood favorite into a sophisticated art piece with a stained-glass effect. For easily changeable art, Displate offers "Food Plants" metal posters by Jonas Loose, which utilize an innovative wall magnet system, allowing for quick updates to a room's decor. Finally, the "Kawaii Cactus Neon Wall Sign" from Zanvis Neon is suggested for adding a modern and playful touch with its vibrant neon glow and includes a wall mounting kit and wireless remote for convenience. #KidsRoomDecor #WallArt #ChildrensDecor #HomeDecoration #InteriorDesign #KidsArt #NurseryDecor #PlayroomDecor

Applying wallpaper can significantly enhance the aesthetics of a room, but it's a DIY project that often comes with its own set of challenges and common pitfalls. This article outlines eight frequent mistakes made during wallpaper installation and provides expert advice from Tim Toot, technical manager for York Wallcoverings, on how to avoid or rectify them, ensuring a smooth and professional-looking finish. These tips are crucial for anyone looking to undertake a wallpapering project, whether they are a novice or have some experience. One of the most significant errors is applying new wallpaper over existing layers. This shortcut can lead to bubbling and ruin both the old and new installations due to the wet backing of the new wallpaper reactivating the old paste. The recommended solution is to completely remove old wallpaper using chemical or power steamers, which can typically be rented from hardware stores. Thorough removal prevents adhesion issues and ensures a clean surface for the new application. Another critical mistake is failing to research the specific type of wallpaper for its intended location. Different wallpapers have varying properties; for instance, natural wallpapers like grasscloth are not water-repellant and can fade in direct sunlight or run in high-humidity areas like bathrooms. Similarly, wallpaper used near heat sources, such as behind a range or near a fireplace, requires special protection and distance. It is essential to read manufacturer instructions and consult with sales associates to choose the appropriate wallcovering for the environment, especially considering international codes on labels. The installation process also varies significantly depending on the wallpaper's backing. Assumptions that all wallpaper backings work the same can lead to improper application. Peel-and-stick wallpapers have adhesive backings for easy removal, while standard wallpapers can be unpasted or prepasted. Commercial-grade wallcoverings often require a heavier paste due to their weight, and natural types almost always come with unpasted backing. Understanding the specific adhesive requirements and applying it evenly is vital to prevent peeling and damage to the wallpaper's finish. Accurate measurement and planning are paramount to avoid a mismatched or insufficient wallpaper supply. Underestimating the amount of wallpaper needed is a common error because pattern matching between strips results in usage loss. To circumvent this, it is advised to use online wallpaper calculators and always order more rolls than estimated. Checking return policies for unopened rolls is also recommended. Additionally, considering the dye lot or “run number” printed on each roll is important, as ordering from different batches can lead to noticeable color variations. Proper wall preparation is another non-negotiable step. Some wallpapers have pre-pasted backing, while others necessitate priming. Wallpaper primer seals the wall, creating a uniform, absorbent surface for the adhesive, which helps prevent wrinkles, air bubbles, and imperfections. Primer also blocks stains and water damage from showing through the wallpaper and affects the underlying wall. Freshly painted walls need a three-week drying and curing period before wallpaper application to prevent the paint from lifting when the wallpaper is eventually removed. Utilizing the correct tools for the job is essential for a lasting finish. Substituting household items for specialized wallpaper tools, such as smoothing tools for air bubbles or seam rollers for preventing curling edges, can compromise the final result. Having all recommended tools ready before starting the project ensures an efficient and high-quality installation. A frequent installation error involves matching wallpaper strips directly on the wall as the work progresses. This method is slow and can cause the paper to overstretch, making pattern alignment difficult. A better approach is to lay out several strips on a flat surface beforehand, match the patterns, and then cut the strips to size, leaving a few extra inches at the top and bottom for trimming after installation. Finally, neglecting to clean newly installed wallpaper of excess paste residue can result in shiny, unsightly spots once the paste dries. It is crucial to inspect and clean the wallpaper immediately after installation. Using a clean, damp (not wet) sponge with fresh water to wipe down the surface as soon as the project is complete will remove any residue and ensure a clean, professional appearance. This final step, along with instructions found on the wallpaper label, is key to a successful wallpapering project. #WallpaperInstallation #DIYHomeImprovement #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #WallpaperMistakes #WallCovering #AdhesiveApplication #WallPreparation

Molly Guy, executive weddings editor at Domino magazine and owner of Stone Fox Bride, shares her philosophy on creating a vibrant and organized children's room. She transformed her Brooklyn apartment's master bedroom into a playful sanctuary for her two children, Sonny (5) and Coco (2), a decision driven by the need for more space for her growing family. Guy's design approach focuses on both aesthetics and functionality, aiming for an "ethereal playground feel" that is also well-organized. Key elements of the room include rainbow designs, sheepskin rugs, and a particularly striking printed wallpaper by Nathalie Lété. The vibrant wallpaper is highlighted as Guy's favorite feature, discovered through friends whose design sensibilities she admired. The article emphasizes that such decorative elements can significantly brighten and personalize a child's space. Beyond elaborate decorations, Guy also offers a practical and budget-friendly tip for personalizing a child's room: using hot pink tape to display cherished photos. This method allows for frequent updates and ensures that family memories are visibly integrated into the room's design, offering an inexpensive way to add a personal touch and encourage engagement with the space. To assist readers in re-creating a similar aesthetic, the article suggests several temporary wallpaper options available from Etsy. These include "Watercolor Floral Removable Wallpaper" from AccentWallCustoms, "Watercolour Poppy Flower Print Temporary Wallpaper" from WallfloraShop, "Dressed-up Deer Pattern" from KidsColoray, "Cute Cars, Trucks, and Airplanes Pattern" from iinky, "Feather Temporary Wallpaper" from BohoWalls, and "Watercolor Birds Mural" from DecoWorks. These recommendations range in price and style, offering diverse choices for different preferences and budgets, and highlighting the ease with which temporary wallpaper can transform a room without a permanent commitment. Ultimately, the article showcases how thoughtful design, combining whimsical elements with practical solutions, can transform a potentially chaotic children's room into an inspiring and comfortable environment. It demonstrates that creating a beautiful and functional space for children does not necessarily require extensive renovations but can be achieved through creative choices in decor and organization. #KidsRoomDesign #InteriorDecoration #TemporaryWallpaper #ParentingTips #HomeDecor #CreativeSpaces #NurseryDesign #DIYDecor #BudgetFriendlyDesign

Chango & Co. designers undertook a full gut remodel of a Westhampton Beach summer retreat, with a tight 10-week deadline. The project aimed to infuse the home with vibrant colors and a playful atmosphere, taking design cues directly from the client's children. The renovation primarily involved minor construction, such as painting, molding removal, and layout simplification, to achieve the client's vision. The result is a home characterized by well-placed, vibrant accents and a thoughtful balance between playful elements and traditional decor. A key example of the children's influence is the dining room, adorned with 250 life-size pineapple decals. Throughout the residence, unexpected pops of color appear, including citron entryway doors, mint green breakfast nook chairs, and chartreuse lanterns imported from Mexico. These colorful additions are juxtaposed with more conventional features like a straw bench and leather pulls, creating a harmonious and balanced aesthetic. Creative director Susana Simonpietri emphasized specific renovation rules that guided the project. The master bedroom, in contrast to the rest of the house, was designed as a neutral adult retreat, subtly incorporating the home's vibrant palette. The second floor was dedicated entirely to the children, housing their rooms and a playroom designed to be an engaging space. The playroom features four custom-made, French-piped mattresses on the floor, which can be easily converted into beds for impromptu slumber parties. These mattresses are complemented by handmade pillows decorated with colorful pom-poms and tassels, adding a touch of whimsy and fun. A significant money-saving strategy employed was the use of wall decals instead of wallpaper for patterned areas. This approach provided the desired aesthetic at a fraction of the cost, allowing the designers to allocate more budget to durable items like artwork, lighting, and larger furnishings. Simonpietri noted that wallpaper is less resilient in homes with young children, making decals a practical and economical alternative. Simonpietri also highlighted the most crucial lesson learned from the renovation: the invaluable role of a skilled handyman or general contractor. She underscored that challenges are inherent in any remodeling project, and a competent professional is essential for resolving unexpected issues and ensuring the project's success. The renovation successfully transformed the traditional beach house into a lively and family-centric space, reflecting the unique tastes and preferences of its youngest inhabitants. #BeachHouse #HomeRenovation #KidsDesignChoices #ColorfulInteriors #WesthamptonBeach #InteriorDesign #WallDecals #PlayroomDesign #ChangoAndCo #BudgetFriendly

This article presents a detailed, step-by-step guide to constructing a modern and customizable DIY picture wall, suitable for displaying various artworks and photographs. The project, demonstrated by Chris Salomone of Foureyes Furniture as part of the Dwell Made series, emphasizes a minimalist design and offers flexibility in materials and dimensions. The key materials required are ¾-inch hardwood, softwood, or plywood, along with 10x10-inch pre-cut mat boards, though alternative sizes are also permissible. The construction process begins with cutting the chosen wood to a desired finished length, with 64 inches used as an example, but adaptable to individual wall specifications. This can be achieved using various tools such as a table saw with a cross-cut sled, a chop saw, or a handheld circular saw. Following the initial length cut, the board is then cut into multiple strips. The example uses 1 ½-inch wide strips, but this dimension can be altered to fit specific design preferences, with four strips being necessary for the demonstrated design. A crucial step involves cutting a groove into both the top and bottom edges of each strip. This is accomplished by setting a table saw blade to protrude approximately 1/8 inch above the table surface and adjusting the fence to position the groove towards the back, but not directly on the edge, of the pieces. After cutting, the fit of the mat board within the groove is tested, and adjustments to the fence are made if necessary to widen the grooves for a perfect fit. The subsequent step focuses on finishing the wood pieces. This includes sanding with progressively finer grits—80, 120, and finally 180 grit sandpaper—to achieve a smooth surface. A coat of wipe-on Polyurethane finish is then applied, though the article notes that almost any type of finish can be used. The final stage involves the installation of the picture wall. Prior to installation, careful planning and marking of the desired layout on the wall are essential. The first or bottom piece is installed using a level to ensure accuracy, and secured with finish nails. To maintain consistent spacing between subsequent pieces, mat boards are used as temporary spacers on either end. This process is repeated until all strips are securely installed, creating a cohesive and visually appealing display system. The article concludes by inviting readers to follow Dwell Made on Instagram and YouTube for more DIY projects. #DIY #PictureWall #HomeDecor #Woodworking #ModernDesign #Craftsmanship #FoureyesFurniture #InteriorDesign #HomeImprovement

This article explores creative ways to display children's artwork throughout the home, moving beyond the traditional refrigerator display. It draws inspiration from Mary Kathryn Wells, who transformed her 2,500-square-foot home with her children's and husband's childhood art. Wells initially bought a print for her living room mantel but found it lacked cheerfulness. Her then 3-year-old son, Wells Vinyard, created an abstract piece with bold red strokes, which she had professionally enlarged for about $100 and mounted above the fireplace. She believes that while not every piece of kid art is frame-worthy, some pieces truly resonate. Wells's home features hyper-saturated creations by her now 7-year-old son, as well as art by her 5-year-old son, Beck, whose graphic composition hangs over the main bedroom fireplace. Her 2-year-old daughter, Mary Coco, contributes colorful masking tape creations. Even two pieces by her music publicist husband, Chris Vinyard, from his childhood are displayed in the boys' shared bedroom. Wells, who transitioned from public education to interior design, asserts that children’s and amateur art is "real art." Her decision to fill her home with her children's collages and watercolors stemmed from a need to cover ample wall space in their new home, a contrast to their previous two-bedroom apartment in Hawaii, and a desire for her children to feel represented throughout the living environment. The article provides several key strategies for effectively incorporating kid art into home decor. First, Wells emphasizes starting with art that holds genuine meaning, preferring pieces entirely made by her children over hand-prints. An example given is a mobile crafted by her eldest son for Mary Coco’s nursery, made from painted shells and clay sculptures. Second, she recommends using budget-friendly frames. Her preferred choice is IKEA’s Ribba frames, which cost around $8. For three-dimensional pieces, she uses simple shadow boxes from Target. For custom framing, she suggests affordable services like Framebridge, which offers options to add brass plates for special details. Third, the article advises designating a specific display area for rotating casual doodles and new creations. In her kitchen, Wells uses IKEA’s steel curtain wires, which provide a more secure display method than magnets, preventing heavy paper from sliding. Traditional bulletin boards are also noted as effective for this purpose. Finally, a crucial tip is to integrate children's art into all public spaces, rather than confining it to playrooms or isolated corners. By hanging kid art alongside non-kid creations, such as prints by professional artists, the children's pieces are elevated and seamlessly blend into the overall home aesthetic. Wells illustrates this by showcasing three prints by artist Emily Rickard alongside her children's work in the kitchen collage. She also incorporates other unconventional items as art, including personalized letterpress coasters, Shaka hooks, vintage postcards, a surfboard fin, beach hats, ukuleles, and a collection of New York Delft plates. Wells typically arranges these pieces by starting with the largest item, centering it at eye level, and then building outward to create a lively gallery, maintaining a spacing of 3.5 to 4 inches between items in a grouping. She concludes by acknowledging her own journey with perfectionism, stating that art, especially from children, teaches that things don't always have to be "right" and can embrace messiness. The article concludes with a list of recommended art supplies for families to create their own masterpieces, noting that Tempera cakes are ideal for creations intended for enlargement. #KidsArt #HomeDecor #CreativeDisplay #InteriorDesign #FamilyHome #ArtDisplayTips #DIYHomeDecor #BudgetFriendlyFrames #WallArt

The design process for Wren's room, the oldest daughter of the McGee family, incorporated her specific request for a white and gold color palette while aiming for a timeless and playful aesthetic. The room features a foundation of low-pile, soft "Sumana" carpet in "Sand" from Stanton, providing comfort suitable for a child's space. To address a lower ceiling and add visual interest, a statement wall was created. This wall features paneling on the bottom half, painted in Grey Owl by Benjamin Moore, balancing a cool tone with a warm, beige floral wallpaper from McGee & Co. on the upper section, introducing charm and femininity. A significant design challenge was an off-center window, which was rectified by integrating built-in bookshelves above a desk, extending into a window seat. This window seat includes a custom cushion from Etsy, a classic wicker sconce, and patterned pillows, collectively establishing a balanced and inviting focal point in the room. Wren's vintage desk chair adds a unique, personal touch to the study area. For the main furnishings, Wren's preference for white and gold was central. A white "Northcott" bed from McGee & Co. is flanked by gold sconces, reinforcing the chosen color scheme. The introduction of light pinks and blues, along with varied patterns and textures, contributes to a playful yet cohesive atmosphere. A white-reeded dresser, aligning with design elements found elsewhere in the McGee home, provides practical storage and visual continuity. This dresser is accessorized with an oversized textured lamp, a book basket, and faux greenery, completing a thoughtfully styled vignette. The adjoining bathroom was a collaborative effort, with the vanity custom-crafted by Killowen Cabinet Co. based on sketches detailing curved elements, flush inset drawers, and specific countertop designs. A vintage floral painting, a treasured find, became a central decorative piece, contrasting with Wren’s request for a white, gold, and pink bathroom. To fulfill this, terracotta tiles from Clé in a subtle vintage rose hue were chosen for a border and shower area, providing a touch of pink without being overly juvenile. Gold fixtures from Kohler Co., including a faucet and showerhead, complement the golden accents. Gold pill sconces from McGee & Co. and a silver, Venetian-style mirror are incorporated, blending modern and classic design elements effectively. This careful selection of materials and colors ensures the bathroom is both appealing to a child and adaptable as she grows. Overall, Wren's room and en-suite bathroom exemplify a design strategy that blends a child's personal preferences with sophisticated and enduring design choices, creating spaces that are both functional and aesthetically rich. #KidsRoomDesign #BedroomDecor #BathroomDesign #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #ColorPalette #CustomFurnishings #Wallpaper #Lighting

Amal Iqbal, a blogger residing in San Diego, transformed her rental apartment's plain walls into a personalized space by creating her own peel-and-stick wallpaper. Tired of the 'white box' aesthetic common in California rentals and not yet ready to purchase a home, Iqbal sought a landlord-friendly solution to traditional wallpaper. She discovered a method using Elmer's glue as an adhesive, which allowed for easy removal, mitigating concerns about losing her security deposit. Iqbal's initial attempt involved wallpapering an IKEA Billy bookcase with a mixture of 1 cup water and ⅓ cup Elmer’s glue. While the results on the bookcase were not ideal, the experiment revealed the adhesive's remarkable ease of removal, which was a critical factor for a rental property. This accidental discovery empowered her to proceed with wallpapering her living room walls without fear of damaging the property or forfeiting her deposit. The DIY process outlined in the article involves four key steps. The first step, 'Prep the Foundation,' emphasizes the importance of preparing the walls. This includes sanding any spackle, cleaning the surfaces with warm, soapy water, and ensuring they are thoroughly dry. Proper preparation helps the wallpaper adhere smoothly and increases its longevity on the wall. 'Practice Makes Perfect' is the second step. Iqbal strongly advises testing the adhesive mixture on a small, inconspicuous area, such as a shelf or a piece of poster board, before applying it to the main wall. This allows the DIYer to become familiar with the technique and consistency of the adhesive, preventing potential mistakes during the primary application and streamlining the overall process. The third step, 'It’s Go Time,' details the application process. Iqbal suggests starting in the middle of the wall, which she notes can simplify the process of straightening edges, especially in older rental properties where walls might not be perfectly even. She recommends applying wallpaper in 6 to 8-inch sections, securing the remaining roll with clothespins. The adhesive is applied directly to the wall using a small paintbrush, and then the wallpaper is carefully laid over it and smoothed from the center outwards with a smoothing tool. This method is repeated until the desired surface is covered. The final step, 'Admire,' encourages stepping back to assess the completed work. This allows the DIYer to spot any imperfections and appreciate the transformation. Iqbal notes that the entire process, which took her approximately eight hours for a 9-by-10-foot wall, can significantly alter the look and feel of a room. A significant advantage of this method is the ease of removal: the wallpaper can simply be peeled off from a corner at a 45-degree angle, making it an ideal, temporary design solution for renters. #DIYHomeDecor #RentalFriendly #PeelAndStickWallpaper #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #ElmersGlueHack #ApartmentDecor #WallDecor #CreativeLiving

The increasing prevalence of mass-produced home goods from retailers like Ikea, CB2, and Target has led to a homogenization of interior design. In response to this trend, Minneapolis-based designers Kate Worum and Jennifer A. Jorgensen have founded She She, a firm specializing in custom, hand-painted wallpaper installations and textiles featuring original illustrations. She She’s approach focuses on creating unique, personalized designs that combat generic aesthetics. Their inaugural projects include "on a pony she named wildfire," a toile pattern inspired by a reflective trip to Crosslake, Minnesota, and "Paco y Maria," a design drawing from a San Francisco trip, celebrating themes of passion in various aspects of life. Worum, an illustrator, and Jorgensen, an interior architect, met at an art gallery and discovered a shared vision for design. The concept for She She originated when Jorgensen, while designing a room for the American Craft Council Show, decided to create a unique, north-inspired wallpaper instead of simply painting the walls. The polarizing feedback they received confirmed their belief in the potential of their distinctive work. The design process at She She begins with a conceptual idea for the wallpaper's aesthetic. Both Worum and Jorgensen contribute to the illustration, sketching and painting to develop a repeatable image. This design is then projected onto the wall, traced by hand, and subsequently painted directly onto the surface. They intentionally leave room for artistic interpretation during the painting phase to enhance the custom feel of each installation. The designers emphasize that each wallpaper project is deeply personal, often reflecting significant life experiences, which contributes to the emotional depth and narrative quality of their work. Inspiration for their designs stems from their travels and personal experiences. For client projects, their goal is to translate the client's own life stories and preferences into the design, making each installation uniquely special for the space it inhabits. Initially, their clientele has primarily come through Jorgensen's existing design practice and word-of-mouth referrals, indicating a strong demand for bespoke interior elements. While She She is currently focused on custom projects for both residential and commercial clients, they are open to the possibility of developing non-custom retail products in the future, such as a portfolio of prints for wallpaper rolls. However, their immediate priority is to expand their custom design business. Upcoming projects include a custom wallpaper design for a coffee shop in Chicago and a Mid-Century modern custom wallpaper installation for a local kitchen. Their long-term aspiration is to undertake a dream project involving the comprehensive design of a boutique hotel, where their patterns would extend beyond wallpaper to furniture, lobby areas, and other decor elements, creating a fully immersive and cohesive visual experience. #CustomWallpaper #HandPainted #InteriorDesign #TextileDesign #BespokeArt #MinneapolisDesign #ArtisticCollaboration #HomeDecor #UniqueInteriors

A woman named Gemma successfully transformed a blank wall in her home into a striking geometric feature wall using a simple DIY technique involving paint and FrogTape. This creative solution emerged after she was unable to find wallpaper that matched her aesthetic preferences. Leveraging extra time she had during isolation, Gemma drew inspiration from similar FrogTape projects shared online. Her process involved initially painting the wall with a copper color. Following this, she carefully applied FrogTape to create a geometric pattern. Once the tape was securely in place, she applied four coats of blue paint. The copper paint, visible between the blue geometric lines, provides a striking contrast, making the fireplace a central focal point of the room. The materials for this project, purchased from a UK variety store called B&M, cost approximately £30. A similar project in Australia would cost around $50 using supplies from a local hardware store. Gemma noted that she had leftover paint, which she plans to use for future projects. She is also awaiting new furniture, specifically a lounge and carpet, to complete the room's transformation. The project's success was widely recognized, with thousands of positive reactions on social media platforms, including the Facebook group "Extreme Couponing and Bargains UK." Many commenters praised her design skills and the impactful results, with some even suggesting she pursue a career in interior design. This DIY endeavor demonstrates that with creativity and patience, individuals can achieve professional-looking home decor results at a fraction of the cost of store-bought alternatives or professional services. The project highlights the potential for personalized home decoration through accessible and affordable methods. #DIY #FeatureWall #HomeDecor #GeometricDesign #PaintingTips #InteriorDesign #BudgetFriendly #FrogTape #WallTransformation