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How and why we should be decorating with small-scale wallpaper
The trend in interior design is shifting towards smaller, more subtle wallpaper prints, offering a versatile alternative to large, bold patterns. Small-scale wallpapers, characterized by tighter, more frequent repeats, introduce texture and visual interest without overwhelming a space. Designers note that these delicate patterns can make a room feel more spacious and layered, in contrast to larger motifs that often create a dramatic and intimate atmosphere. This approach allows for greater flexibility in layering other patterns within a room's decor.
Small-scale wallpapers are particularly effective in smaller or more intimate areas such as under-eave bedrooms, bathrooms, and hallways, where they provide texture without visual clutter. In older properties with architectural details like nooks, beams, and alcoves, these prints can foster a harmonious and grounded ambiance, as if they were an original part of the home. Conversely, they can also serve as an elegant alternative to paint in larger rooms when clients desire subtle walls with a hint of interest, rather than wallpaper being the focal point. From a distance, some small-scale prints may even appear plain or purely textural. They are also useful in unifying unusually shaped rooms or those with intricate architectural elements.
Beyond main walls, small-scale wallpapers can be applied to unexpected areas such as the backs of shelves, inside cupboards, and drawer linings, adding a 'layered feel' and 'joy in the everyday.' These smaller applications are also an efficient way to utilize leftover wallpaper rolls. When decorating with these designs, the aesthetic and mood can be finely tuned. A busy pattern in a soft, tonal palette can be calming, while a bolder contrast within a small-scale print can inject playfulness and graphic appeal.
To create a layered effect, small-scale wallpaper can be paired with other patterns. However, it's crucial to avoid combining too many patterns of the same scale to prevent visual conflict. Instead, contrasting patterns like larger florals, stripes, or graphic prints on upholstery, rugs, or cushions are recommended. For example, a small-scale graphic paper can complement a large floral fabric, or a small floral paper can be paired with a striped textile. The flooring and woodwork should act as anchors, with rich woods or painted finishes grounding the lightness of a small pattern. For a cohesive look, selecting a tone from the wallpaper for woodwork or ceilings can create subtle harmony without being overly matched. Unlike larger wallpapers, smaller designs provide an excellent backdrop for artwork or decorative items like mirrors, allowing these pieces to stand out without competition. However, it is advisable to avoid overcrowding these walls, using pared-back frames to ensure the artwork and wallpaper coexist comfortably, allowing the room to 'breathe.'
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