Top Designers Reveal How to Pull Off Shiplap Walls

Once confined to mountain cabins, 1990s basements, and Swedish saunas, cedar walls are experiencing a significant resurgence in modern interior design. This wall treatment, historically associated with rustic aesthetics, is being reimagined by contemporary designers to offer warmth and a subtle evergreen scent without the dated appearance of its past iterations. The key to this modern revival lies in a strategic approach to finish, color palette, and accompanying decor. Traditionally, cedar paneling in its less desirable form was characterized by a glossy, orange-red tint, often paired with elements like Tiffany lamps and laminate flooring, contributing to an outdated look. However, a new generation of designers is proving that the natural beauty of unpainted timber—whether pine, cedar, or oak—can be elevated to create sophisticated and inviting spaces. The core principle for modernizing this material involves opting for a light, matte finish that preserves the natural texture and color of the wood. This approach moves away from heavy stains and glossy treatments, allowing the wood's inherent character to shine through in a more refined manner. To prevent the wood paneling from appearing overtly rustic or reminiscent of a bygone era, designers are integrating vibrant textiles, bold paint colors, and striking art pieces. These contrasting elements serve to modernize the space, injecting a fresh and contemporary feel while leveraging the warmth that wood naturally provides. The juxtaposition of natural wood with modern furnishings and decor creates a dynamic and visually appealing environment that transcends traditional cabin aesthetics. Max Humphrey, a Portland, Oregon-based designer known for his Americana aesthetic, exemplifies this trend by staining wood in lighter tones and pairing it with pale furniture. This method brightens the space and updates the classic wood-paneled look. Similarly, French designer Pierre Yovanovitch has adopted this style in projects like Le Coucou in Méribel, France. He maintains a monochrome palette, such as a rusty red-dotted carpet complementing a painted ceiling in the same hue, to update quintessential Alpine pine paneling. This cohesive color strategy allows the wood to integrate seamlessly into a sophisticated, contemporary design. Frances Merrill of Reath Design embraces the cabin vibe, enhancing the rusticity of wood planks with elements like checkered table skirts, oil paintings, and patchwork quilts. Crucially, she ensures the overall design remains current by incorporating furniture with clean, modern lines. This thoughtful balance prevents the space from feeling dated, instead creating a harmonious blend of rustic charm and contemporary elegance. The renewed interest in wood wall treatments signifies a shift towards natural materials and an appreciation for their inherent beauty when thoughtfully integrated into modern design schemes, positioning them as a compelling alternative to popular finishes like shiplap. #WallTreatment #InteriorDesign #CedarWalls #HomeDecorTrends #WoodPaneling #DesignInspiration #ModernRustic #HomeRenovation #MaterialRevival

The article highlights a growing trend among interior designers and clients to move away from plain, flat-painted walls towards more textured finishes. Sondra Ganz of Studio Ganz notes that many clients are requesting walls with more visual interest, finding traditional painted walls to be boring. Textured walls offer a more transportive and bespoke feel, though they typically involve a longer-term commitment and may influence decor choices more significantly than a simple paint color. Several creative and daring designers shared their approaches to incorporating texture into wall designs. Becky Shea, an interior designer, advocates for bringing the outdoors in by using reeded wood paneling. In one bedroom, she installed reeded walnut paneling that extends behind the bed and onto the ceiling, creating a warm, enveloping effect. This method adds depth and visual interest without relying on traditional wallcoverings, resulting in an elevated and timeless space. Rachael Gowdridge introduced a unique method for uniform tiled walls, moving beyond typical high-gloss drama. She designed bespoke tiles inspired by a 19th-century yew tree sprig, using a repeat pattern to add whimsy. The bright white base of the tiles keeps the room feeling fresh, and extending the tiling to a monolithic basin shelf simplifies finishes and adds playfulness, especially effective in small spaces. Grasscloth is presented as a middle ground between paint and wallpaper, offering the solidity of paint with the dimension of wallpaper. Gowdridge utilized a rich green grasscloth to create a lived-in, layered feel in a room. She explained that grasscloth's natural variations in tone and weave instantly make walls more sophisticated, adding a tactile quality that softens the space and provides warmth without overwhelming the eye. Fabric folding screens, or room dividers, are suggested as a cost-effective way to add texture and define spaces. Marty Dykas used a fabric-covered custom screen to separate a dressing area from a bedroom and serve as a headboard, enhancing the visual appeal of a highly visible flat. The silky-smooth fabric of the screen contributes significant texture. Andy Barlow, head of interior design at Thesis Architecture, embraced original wood paneling in a family home built in 1914. This preserved architectural element served as a key design feature, influencing the decision to keep the kitchen light and bright to balance the darker, cozy wood tones on the main floor, ensuring the original character of the house was maintained. Exposed painted brick is another textural element discussed. Anshu Bangia, co-founder of Bangia Agostinho Architecture DPC, uncovered existing brick walls in a historic Brooklyn kitchen during renovation. Repaired and incorporated into the new design, the painted brick added texture and depth, acting as a light, airy backdrop in the open kitchen and along the stair hall, connecting all levels vertically. Patterned wallpaper remains a classic choice for adding personality and depth to walls. Miranda Cullen, a Colorado-based designer, frequently uses wallpaper in her projects. She noted that patterned wallpaper can highlight architectural features, add personality, or enhance a color palette. For example, in a breakfast nook, a subtle blue patterned wallpaper softened sharp architectural lines and created a cheerful backdrop, proving wallpaper's ability to add refined character without being overwhelming. #InteriorDesign #WallDecor #TexturedWalls #HomeRenovation #DesignTrends #Wallpaper #WoodPaneling #TileDesign #Grasscloth

Shiplap walls offer an economical and visually appealing method for enhancing a home's interior with a cozy, rustic, and Scandinavian aesthetic. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to installing shiplap, drawing insights from both a popular DIY TikToker and an expert from MyJobQuote. To begin, material preparation is crucial. It is recommended to purchase 1/4 inch four-by-eight plywood boards from a local hardware store and have them cut into six or eight-inch strips. Alternatively, the cutting can be done at home. Prior to installation, the boards, including their edges, should be painted with a stain-blocking paint and primer to ensure thorough coverage and reduce the need for extensive touch-ups after mounting. This preparation involves sanding the boards, applying appropriate wood paint, and allowing them to dry, repeating the process if necessary for optimal finish. The installation process starts with preparing the wall. Any existing base moulding should be carefully removed using a putty knife, as it will be reinstalled later. The next critical step involves locating and marking the wall studs. A stud finder can be used to identify the center point of each stud, which should then be marked with a light pencil line. A snap line is then used to create a chalk line, approximately six inches from the floor, to account for potential wood expansion. Once the wall is prepared, the shiplap boards can be installed. Starting from the bottom corner of the wall, each board is secured by inserting two spaced-out two-inch nails over every chalk line. A nail gun or hammer can be used for this purpose. For added durability and longevity, a strong adhesive can also be applied to the back of each board before nailing. This method, combining cost-effective materials and careful installation techniques, enables homeowners to achieve a professional-looking shiplap wall that adds character and warmth to their living space. #DIYHomeImprovement #ShiplapWalls #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #BudgetFriendly #WallPanelling #ScandinavianStyle

The article explores the emerging interior design trend of grid walls, contrasting them with traditional gallery walls and offering insights from prominent designers. While gallery walls often feature a spontaneous arrangement of varied frames, grid walls emphasize uniformity, with identical, equally spaced frames creating an ordered, grid-like pattern. This design approach brings a sense of order and symmetry to a space, allowing for personal expression within a structured framework. Designers Bria Hammel and Nadia Watts highlight the visual intrigue and soothing repetition that grid walls offer, comparing their effect to that of wallpaper. Watts notes the 'quiet power in their order that truly anchors a room.' The popularity of grid walls aligns with a broader shift in design towards maximalism with a touch of tradition, seen in trends like color-drenching and skirted furniture. Unlike disparate displays that feed into a 'more-is-more' mentality, grid walls introduce a sense of decorum and sophistication. Danielle Domingues of Collins & Co. Interiors points out that grid walls refocus attention on the content within the frames, particularly family portraits, allowing them to be displayed in a timeless and elegant manner. This trend is versatile and suitable for modern, minimalist, or traditional homes where symmetry is valued. To create an effective grid wall, designers recommend careful planning. Bria Hammel advises laying out frames on the floor first to determine optimal spacing and emphasizes avoiding overcrowding while maintaining consistent frame sizes for symmetry. Marea Clark and Tami Ramsay demonstrate how the layout can be adapted to specific room needs, whether grouping pieces tightly over a sofa or spacing them out above a wide headboard. Precision is crucial, with every inch mattering. Nadia Watts suggests using a minimum of four pieces to achieve a balanced and intentional grid, with uniform frame sizes establishing visual rhythm and structure. To minimize visual clutter, simple frames are preferred, allowing the artwork or photographs to take center stage. Domingues favors slim 25-inch-by-25-inch frames from Pottery Barn for a sleek, modern look. As for content, Zoë Feldman suggests black and white photography or art presented in diptychs or triptychs to enhance clarity and allow the art to speak without distraction. Watts adds that consistency in color palette, subject matter, or artistic style helps unify the overall look, making the grid wall appear thoughtfully curated. Ultimately, the goal of a grid wall is to tell a personal story through an organized and aesthetically pleasing display. #GridWalls #GalleryWalls #InteriorDesignTrends #HomeDecor #SymmetryInDesign #PictureFrames #VisualIntrigue #DecoratingIdeas

The article introduces grid walls as a rising interior design trend, poised to replace the traditional gallery wall. Unlike the often eclectic and spontaneous arrangements of gallery walls, grid walls emphasize uniformity, featuring identical frames equally spaced to create an organized, grid-like pattern. Design experts, including Bria Hammel and Nadia Watts, highlight that this design approach brings a sense of order, symmetry, and quiet power to a space, anchoring the room with a balanced structure that still allows for personal expression. Grid walls offer a harmonious blend of visual intrigue and soothing repetition, akin to a well-designed wallpaper pattern. This trend emerges as the design world leans towards a more maximalist and traditional aesthetic, with other popular trends like color-drenching, wallpaper, and skirted furniture. While these trends can lead to busy interiors, a grid wall introduces a sense of decorum and visual calm, preventing the space from becoming overwhelming. Danielle Domingues of Collins & Co. Interiors points out that grid walls refocus attention on the content within the frames, particularly promoting the display of family portraits in a sophisticated and timeless manner, countering the perceived decline of physical family photo displays in the digital age. This organized presentation elevates the artwork or photographs, lending an artful edge to the decor. The versatility of grid walls is another key advantage. They seamlessly integrate into various home styles, including modern, minimalist, and traditional interiors, where symmetry can significantly enhance the overall aesthetic. Furthermore, once established, grid walls are relatively easy to update, offering long-term flexibility for homeowners. However, careful planning is crucial before installation. Designers recommend laying out frames on the floor to visualize spacing and avoid overcrowding. Consistency in frame sizes is paramount to maintaining the symmetrical appeal. The final layout of a grid wall can be customized to suit a room's specific needs, whether grouping pieces closely over a sofa or spacing them out above an extra-wide headboard. Regardless of the arrangement, maintaining equidistant spacing between frames is essential for precision and balance. Repetition is also key, with recommendations for using a group of four or more pieces of the same size to establish visual rhythm and structure. To minimize visual clutter, simple frames are preferred, allowing the displayed art or photographs to be the focal point. Designers like Zoë Feldman suggest black and white photography or art displayed in diptychs or triptychs for a clean, symmetric look that lets the art speak without distraction. While consistency in color palette, subject matter, or artistic style is advised to unify the overall aesthetic, some variation can also add interest, ensuring the grid wall feels thoughtfully curated and tells a unique story. #GridWalls #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #DecoratingTrends #Symmetry #GalleryWalls #MinimalistDesign #TraditionalHomes #PictureFrames

The article explores the resurgence and innovative applications of lacquer in interior design, moving beyond traditional uses like trays and dressers to encompass a broader range of furniture, walls, and decorative elements. Lacquer, a finish with ancient origins in China dating back to the Neolithic period, is gaining renewed interest, particularly as Hollywood Regency and Art Deco styles, where it was prominent, experience a revival. This trend is characterized by moodier interiors, darker color palettes, and a greater emphasis on patterned and textural surfaces, with high-gloss lacquer adding significant visual drama. Several contemporary examples illustrate this expanded use of lacquer. High-gloss walls, such as those found in the back salon of the Trove jewelry store designed by Tali Roth, demonstrate how a butter yellow or even a seductive red-brown lacquer can create a luxurious and enveloping atmosphere. These walls echo the brand's handcrafted jewelry boxes, which feature multiple coats of clear lacquer and paint. Another innovation comes from Campbell Rey’s collaboration with The Lacquer Company, which showcases a sophisticated use of color on side, console, and coffee tables, employing rich hues like bordeaux red, sienna yellow, chocolate brown, and tonal greens. For those seeking an easier application, Schumacher offers a faux lacquer wall covering in performance vinyl, allowing for a glamorous look in various shades without the complexity of traditional lacquering. Furniture pieces are also being reimagined with lacquer. Ransom & Dunn’s hidden bar, cleverly concealed within a lacquered Roman column, exemplifies neoclassic design principles and functionality, offering bespoke color options. Goop's collection with CB2 integrates black lacquered dining chairs, such as the Genevieve model, and a coffee table with a lacquered top and marble base, nodding to 1930s Hollywood Regency elegance. Tatjana von Stein’s Mise en Scène furniture collection features richly hued lacquer on bar cabinets and tables, combining it with materials like stainless steel, leather, and burr wood for intriguing mixed-material designs. Known Work Studio, founded by Danu Kennedy and Jeremy Levitt, applies lacquer to angular cubes, ottomans, and plinths, lending a contemporary feel to their furniture line which also incorporates aluminum, handblown glass, burl wood, and chenille. Even unexpected colors are being explored, as seen in West Haddon Hall’s Chatsworth pedestal table, where terracotta-colored lacquer is applied to sculptural North American oak legs. The Millwood table from the same brand utilizes ivory lacquer on its dowel-like supports. These examples collectively highlight a significant trend towards embracing lacquer in diverse and innovative ways, emphasizing fresh shapes, bold colors, and dramatic finishes to elevate interior spaces in 2025. #LacquerDesign #InteriorDesignTrends #HighGlossFinish #HollywoodRegency #ArtDecoRevival #HomeDecor #FurnitureDesign #WallCoverings #LuxuryInteriors

Lualdi, an Italian brand, offers a highly customizable vertical system called Wall & Door that combines modular panels and doors, allowing for the creation of homogeneous surfaces that seamlessly integrate into existing interior environments. This system aims to redefine the traditional door by offering solutions that adapt to complex architectural requirements, merging advanced industrial production techniques with traditional artisan carpentry. Lualdi emphasizes its ability to craft custom-made pieces that align with architects' design needs. The company highlights how certain door models, developed in collaboration with architects for specific projects, have evolved beyond their initial scope to become iconic elements of Lualdi's production. These models represent a continuous journey of research, experimentation, and technological and formal innovation. The Wall & Door system serves as a testament to this philosophy, providing a versatile framework for interior design. An example of the system's application is seen in a private residence in Milan. For this project, the Wall & Door collection was utilized to design walnut paneling strips that visually connect the living area with the hallway leading to the bedroom. An integrated door, crafted from the same paneling and featuring a slim 55-millimeter thickness, was installed flush with the wall and equipped with a hidden touch handle. This design choice imparts a classic aesthetic to the contemporary apartment, harmonizing with the 19th-century building's historic character. Lualdi characterizes the Wall & Door system as a "white canvas," offering extensive customization possibilities. It can be finished with lacquer, or clad in various materials such as wood, leathers, fabrics, metals, or wooden slats, depending on the architect's and client's preferences. The company also provides comprehensive support, guiding architects through their projects from initial conception to the final implementation of the system. Another notable project involved furnishing a private residence in Qingdao, China, where Lualdi supplied over 1,000 square meters of doors and paneling, along with suspended ceilings and partition systems for all rooms. This demonstrates the system's capacity to handle large-scale and diverse applications. The Wall & Door system enables designers to utilize the entire height of a wall, effectively concealing or revealing different aspects of rooms, and offering intelligent solutions for wardrobes and partitions, thereby enhancing both functionality and aesthetic coherence within interior spaces. #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalSystems #CustomizableDesign #Lualdi #WallPanels #IntegratedDoors #MilanResidence #QingdaoProject #DesignInnovation

The article explores the resurgence of wall and ceiling panels in interior design, moving away from minimalist trends towards more classic and dramatic aesthetics. Interior designer Tanya Burley emphasizes that while decorative paneling is gaining popularity, it is a tradition rather than a mere trend, recalling its historical use. Shiplap, for instance, once served as insulation in rustic structures, but is now a popular decorative element, especially in coastal settings, as exemplified in Burley's designs where it adorns both walls and ceilings. Burley also demonstrates how combining wall panels with updated lighting can create a harmonious blend of contemporary and classic styles. Amanda Patella, an interior designer with Chic on the Cheap, highlights the growing desire for personalization and bolder choices in home decor. She notes that clients are seeking creative outlets and want their living spaces to be more enjoyable. Patella illustrates this with a project where dark-finished wall panels frame rock 'n' roll posters in a hallway, providing an elegant contrast to the colorful artwork. These treatments are seen as essential for making spaces distinctive and reflective of the homeowner's personality. Rebekah Errett-Pikosky of Clive Daniel Home adds that architectural details like barrelled ceilings, beams, and intricate paneling provide an extra layer of elegance, or "frosting," to a room. She shares an example of a client who desired a unique touch for their bedroom, which was achieved through customized wall panels, including a modern chevron pattern that revitalizes a neutral color scheme. Errett-Pikosky also addresses the compatibility of wall panels with hanging art, suggesting that art can add an extra layer of warmth to paneled walls. The versatility of paneling extends to ceilings, where it can anchor a room and add visual interest. Burley’s design, inspired by traditional African mission churches, features black beams contrasting with a white shiplap ceiling, creating a focal point. Patella demonstrates how ceiling panels can carve out specific areas to highlight details, such as mica-laced wallpaper that sparkles under a chandelier. Design elements, like a client's desire to incorporate two mirrors, can also serve as starting points for mapping out panel designs, as shown in an example by Errett-Pikosky. For those hesitant to commit to entire walls or ceilings, paneling can be applied to doors, offering a unique pattern and texture in smaller doses. For installation, all three designers recommend hiring a skilled carpenter due to the crucial nature of corner details. The cost of paneling can vary significantly, ranging from $6,000 to $40,000 for a single wall, depending on the complexity and materials. However, simpler projects, such as shiplap on one wall, are more budget-friendly. Patella also mentions newer, more accessible options like laser-cut 3D PVC panels, which are lightweight and do not require specialized carpentry skills, making them suitable for DIY enthusiasts or those seeking a more affordable solution. #InteriorDesign #HomeTrends #WallPanels #CeilingPanels #Shiplap #DecorativePaneling #HomeDecor #ArchitecturalDetails #CustomDesign

The 'Connected' project, a collaboration between British furniture brand Benchmark and the American Hardwood Export Council (AHEC), emerged from the unique challenges posed by a global pandemic. This initiative brought together nine designers to create furniture pieces aimed at enhancing the working-from-home experience. A significant aspect of this project was the designers' inability to physically visit the workshop or interact directly with their creations, necessitating reliance on remote communication tools like Zoom and WhatsApp, and a considerable degree of trust in the craftspeople at Benchmark. Sean Sutcliffe, co-founder of Benchmark, highlighted the increased leap of faith required from designers in trusting the technical, visual, and sensory aspects of the craftsmanship without in-person observation. An example of the innovative problem-solving employed by Benchmark is demonstrated in Studio Swine’s chair, which required its red oak and cherry wood components to be submerged in the River Kennet for a week to facilitate steam-bending. This resourcefulness is characteristic of Benchmark's workshop, which boasts 58 skilled craftspeople. Sabine Marcelis, a Wallpaper* Designer of the Year, praised Benchmark's willingness to push creative and technical boundaries, a stark contrast to the limitations often encountered with other manufacturers. Marcelis's contribution to 'Connected' is the 'Candy Cubicle,' a maple-veneer box designed to conceal home-working tools, including her partner’s monitor, with a surprising acid-yellow interior. Sustainability is a core principle of 'Connected,' mirroring previous collaborations between AHEC and Benchmark. Designers selected from red oak, maple, and cherry—woods that represent 40 percent of American hardwood forests but are often underutilized. David Venables, European director at AHEC, explained the council's mission to reintroduce these 'unfashionable' woods to designers and consumers, thereby promoting the sustainable use of all natural resources. The project underscores how consumer choices influence forest composition, advocating for a broader appreciation of timber species beyond the obvious choices. The pandemic and the chosen materials appear to have fostered a renewed appreciation for nature among the designers. Works range from Thomas Heatherwick’s biomimicry-inspired maple planters to Studiopepe’s 'Pink Moon' chair, reflecting a collective desire to connect with the natural world. Despite a common theme of natural inspiration, each designer's individuality is evident. Maria Bruun created a Scandinavian-style table from rippled maple, while Jaime Hayon’s 'Mesamachine' showcases complex, humorous, and movable cherry wood components. Ini Archibong's 'The Gate,' an outdoor collection, draws inspiration from the Giant’s Causeway, featuring a hexagonal plinth of red oak and cherry and a green-lacquered red oak top with brass inlays. Maria Jeglinska-Adamczewska's seat utilizes barrel-making techniques for its curved form, and Sebastian Herkner designed 'Stammtisch,' a modern Lazy Susan with sliding trays made from various woods and finishes. The designers will see their completed pieces in person for the first time at London's Design Museum, where 'Connected' will be exhibited from September 11 to October 11. This exhibition marks the culmination of a project that navigated unprecedented challenges through remote collaboration, trust, and a shared commitment to design and sustainability. #FurnitureDesign #Woodworking #RemoteCollaboration #SustainableDesign #HomeOffice #Craftsmanship #DesignMuseum #HardwoodExports #InteriorInnovation

This article details how to create a scalloped wall effect, a popular interior design trend that adds charm and character to various rooms. Helen Goddard, owner of the Decorating Centre Online (DCO), provides an exclusive step-by-step guide. The scalloped wall trend is notably prevalent in children's bedrooms but is also gaining traction in other spaces like bathrooms and home offices. The versatility of this design allows for different aesthetics, ranging from half-wall features to ceiling accents, and can incorporate bold contrasts or subtle blends, as well as longer 'art deco-style' arches or smaller frills. To achieve this look, several materials are required: a sharp pencil, scissors, a piece of card, a round utensil (such as a dish or lid) for shaping the scallops, a small good-quality cutting-in brush (e.g., Axus precision brush), a larger brush (e.g., ProDec synthetic brush), a roller (e.g., Axus blue mini roller kit) for block areas, paint, a paint container, and painters’ tape. The Decorating Centre Online offers color matching services, with pastel shades, sage greens, earthy tones, and baby blues being particularly favored for this trend. Preparation involves ensuring the wall has a dry base color before applying the scalloped effect. A line is then marked with a pencil, using a measuring tape and a leveler to ensure evenness. For creating the scallop stencil, individuals can either cut a cardboard stencil or use the base of an old paint tin or an embroidery hoop. Goddard recommends attaching tape to the stencil with a small portion extending below to maintain consistent scallop depth by aligning it with the straight edge on the wall. For corners, the cardboard stencil can be bent to fit. The application process begins by taping the area designated for the scalloped design and painting a rectangular color block. Once this block is dry, its top line should be lightly sanded to prevent raised edges, ensuring the scallops blend seamlessly. The next step involves marking out the scallop shapes around the room using the stencil and a sharp pencil. A cutting-in paintbrush is then used to paint along the inside edges of these drawn lines. For larger rooms, working in sections is advised. The larger brush is then employed to fill in the scallop shapes, blending them with the color block. A second coat, applied after the first has dried, helps to even out any imperfections and finalize the look. The article concludes by inviting readers to visit @decoratingcentreonline for further inspiration and advice, and to order supplies from their website. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #DIYHacks #ScallopedWall #PaintingTechniques #KidsBedroomIdeas #HomeImprovement #DecoratingTips #AccentWall

Shiplap paneling, a versatile interior design trend, has seen a surge in popularity, particularly since its widespread adoption by Chip and Joanna Gaines of HGTV’s Fixer Upper around 2015. Originally used for practical purposes like cladding farmhouses and ships due to its watertight overlapping design, it has evolved into a staple of modern farmhouse and coastal aesthetics. However, with its ubiquitous presence, a question has arisen regarding its current relevance in contemporary interior design. Designers acknowledge that while shiplap may no longer be considered a 'hot, new trend,' it retains a classic and clean appeal that aligns with popular interior design aesthetics like modern farmhouse and upscale coastal beach looks. Kathy Kuo suggests that shiplap's crisp and clean yet warm and inviting aesthetic can be achieved through alternative methods such as classic warm white or light grey wall paint, textured wallpaper, or wall art with white or grey wooden frames, for those who prefer not to commit to full paneling. Irene Gunter highlights shiplap's versatility and ability to add personality and character to any space, noting its durability makes it suitable for high-traffic areas like hallways. She also points out that while it might evoke a 'Hamptons' look, particularly in the UK, it can be successfully integrated into various settings, from country-side homes to urban environments. The consensus among designers is that shiplap’s continued relevance depends on its appropriate application. Victoria Holly emphasizes treating shiplap like other paneling styles, ensuring it suits the space and style of the home. This involves using it with rich paint colors or classic wood stains to achieve a timeless rather than merely trendy appearance. Practically, shiplap remains a strong choice for functional areas. Tiffany Duggan and Deborah Bass agree that shiplap is a timeless classic that adds a relaxed feel, often used in back-of-house rooms like larders and laundries, and can even conceal imperfections in plasterwork. Bass particularly likes its use in hallways and boot rooms, where its practical nature helps withstand wear and tear. The approach to using shiplap is evolving, moving away from its traditional rustic farmhouse and beachy connotations towards a sleeker, more modern application. Ginger Curtis advises against a strong farmhouse vibe, suggesting that shiplap should be fused with modern elements, such as layering modern artwork or lighting, to create a contemporary feel. Jennifer Jones believes traditional shiplap is giving way to more contemporary wood applications, like using wood flooring on walls to add warmth. Julia Dempster views shiplap as timeless, suggesting alternatives like board and batten or reeded/fluted panels for a contemporary twist, and even reclaimed wood planking for a similar effect with inherent variations. Additionally, the color palette associated with shiplap is expanding beyond white, blue, and pale grey. Jennifer Walter notes a shift towards bolder, moodier colors like deep dark greens, saturated burgundy, and golden ambers, often applied vertically to soften rooms with lower ceilings or combined with wallpaper for added impact. In conclusion, shiplap continues to be a relevant interior design element. The key lies in adapting its application to contemporary tastes, favoring sleeker, simpler forms, and bolder colors, moving beyond its conventional rustic associations to integrate it seamlessly into modern spaces. It is viewed as an effective way to introduce subtle texture and interest, with a focus on clean and contemporary aesthetics over traditional farmhouse styles. #ShiplapStyle #InteriorDesignTrends #HomeDecor #PanelingIdeas #ModernFarmhouse #CoastalDesign #WallTreatments #DesignersPerspective #TimelessDesign

Walls, often overlooked in interior design, are fundamental elements that can profoundly influence the aesthetic and atmosphere of a space. Rather than serving merely as structural partitions or backdrops for art, walls can be transformed into key decorative features that impart historical context, modern sophistication, architectural interest, or practical benefits such as sound insulation. This article explores a variety of innovative wall treatments that move beyond conventional plain-white surfaces, offering creative solutions to elevate interior spaces. One of the most accessible and impactful ways to refresh a room is through paint. Whether opting for a uniform solid color, employing a vibrant hue for an accent wall, or creating dynamic visual effects like stripes, paint offers versatility and ease of application, allowing for frequent updates to match changing tastes. Beyond paint, wallpaper presents an opportunity to introduce patterns and textures. From romantic florals to bold graphic designs, wallpaper can be applied to walls, ceilings, or even framed as art, with careful consideration of pattern scale and color to modulate intensity within a room. Fabric-covered walls introduce a luxurious and tactile dimension. Materials such as grass cloth, linen, or silk add immediate texture and a formal touch. A less obvious benefit of fabric wall coverings, especially when combined with batting or padding, is their ability to significantly reduce ambient noise, contributing to a more tranquil environment. Wood paneling offers an elegant upgrade that enhances warmth. The design possibilities range from contemporary to traditional, dictated by the size, stain, and arrangement of the panels. Molding, often underestimated, can dramatically refine a room's character. Adding a chair rail in a dining area or crown molding in a living space can create a more formal aesthetic, while applying panel molding to flat doors can infuse traditional charm. Plaster, whether a polished Venetian finish or a matte grooved texture, introduces depth and dimension. Its characteristic mottled appearance provides subtle variations and visual interest, effectively breaking the monotony of large, unadorned walls. For a highly personalized touch, decorative painting, including murals, landscapes, trompe l’oeil effects, faux bois, and gold leaf applications, can imbue a space with unique personality and artistic flair. Mirrors serve a dual purpose of aesthetic enhancement and spatial illusion. Strategically placed mirrors can reflect light, making a room appear larger and brighter. A wall composed of mirrored panels, particularly those with an antiqued finish, adds a sophisticated patina and contemporary elegance. Finally, tile, traditionally used in kitchens and bathrooms, has evolved into a versatile design element. Modern tile options include porcelain mimicking wood, durable marble slabs, and decorative terra-cotta in various colors and patterns. Creative application techniques can further transform tile into a striking graphic statement, making it suitable for a wider array of interior settings beyond its conventional uses. These diverse treatments collectively demonstrate how walls can be reimagined as integral components of a cohesive and engaging interior design. #InteriorDesign #WallTreatments #HomeDecor #DesignIdeas #Wallpaper #WoodPaneling #DecorativePainting #FabricWalls #PlasterWalls

Contemporary architectural design emphasizes flexibility and multi-purpose spaces, moving away from traditional, rigidly defined areas with fixed walls. A significant innovation in this regard is Skyfold's vertically folding retractable walls, with over 10,000 installations globally. These operable walls redefine spatial boundaries, offering versatility and rapid adaptation to evolving needs in various interior and architectural settings. Skyfold's success stems from its blend of precision engineering and innovative design, providing advanced solutions for vertical partitions that surpass conventional methods. Skyfold's advanced production facility in Montreal is committed to high-quality, sustainable, and cutting-edge designs. This approach fosters close collaboration with architects and designers, leading to a rethinking of how buildings, their occupants, and internal elements interact. Consequently, spaces in offices, hotels, restaurants, airports, and healthcare facilities can now adapt efficiently, offering enhanced comfort and flexibility. The solutions include options to address acoustic challenges in geometrically variable spaces and glass partitions that maximize natural light. Further innovations cater to specific architectural needs, such as retractable walls designed for stepped and sloped spaces, ideal for auditoriums and theaters. These installations feature automatic rubber acoustic floor seals for soundproofing and seamless integration with existing architectural elements, maintaining a cohesive interior design. The introduction of markerboard finish panels adds another dimension, allowing the folding wall surfaces to function as writing or projection areas, thereby transforming how spaces are interacted with. Skyfold's partitions are known for their user-friendly, state-of-the-art design, enabling quick and easy space reconfiguration, along with long-term performance and reliability. The company's commitment to environmental responsibility is evident in its manufacturing process, with up to 97% of materials used being recycled. This aligns with modern principles of health, wellness, and sustainability in design. The brand's evolution, from an independent company to a part of the Dormakaba Group, a global leader in access solutions, has further expanded its reach and growth. These vertically folding retractable walls offer innovative and customizable solutions that redefine space utilization. Their adaptability creates new possibilities for diverse typologies and contexts, fostering flexible spaces that improve functionality, promote cohesive design, and support sustainability in dynamic environments. #FlexibleDesign #VerticallyFoldingWalls #Skyfold #SpatialBoundaries #MultiPurposeSpaces #ArchitecturalInnovation #AcousticSolutions #SustainableDesign #InteriorDesign #SpaceTransformation

The article addresses the common challenge of decorating rooms with awkwardly placed windows, offering eleven design solutions from various professionals. It acknowledges that while abundant natural light is desirable, poorly positioned windows can limit furniture placement and aesthetic harmony, especially in smaller spaces. The article highlights that designers have developed clever strategies to integrate these windows into the overall room design. One approach involves maximizing views by situating key functional areas in front of windows. For instance, a kitchen cooktop can be placed directly before a bay window, allowing occupants to enjoy the outdoor scenery while performing daily tasks. This method requires careful consideration of elements like vent hoods, which can be painted to blend seamlessly with surrounding cabinetry, maintaining visual flow. Another solution for privacy, particularly in bathrooms, is to use frosted glass for shower windows, ensuring seclusion without sacrificing natural light. This eliminates the need for blinds or curtains that might clutter a small space or interfere with the bathroom's functionality. To address multiple or unusually high windows, designers suggest creating a unified look with floor-to-ceiling drapes. This technique can visually combine disparate window placements into a single, cohesive design element, making the room feel more expansive and sophisticated. Sweeping curtains to one side can also soften the overall appearance, catering to less formal aesthetics. Storage solutions can also be integrated with windows; for example, a shelf can bisect a kitchen window to provide additional space for kitchenware, turning a potential obstacle into a practical feature. Materials like African mahogany or brass rails can add aesthetic value while serving a functional purpose. When standard furniture doesn't fit a windowed wall, custom pieces can be designed. An example is a headboard with two plywood wings that frame a window, providing a focal point while allowing views and addressing the need for a bed placement. This demonstrates how bespoke solutions can transform awkward spaces into intentional design statements. Another creative technique involves faking a window wall using wall-to-wall drapery. This can conceal off-center or mismatched windows, creating the illusion of a single, large window and making a room feel both larger and cozier. For bedrooms with centered but small windows, the placement of the window can guide the furniture layout, ensuring symmetry and balance. In rooms with dramatic corner windows, automated drapery panels mounted on ceiling tracks can create a flexible 'wall' for floating furniture like canopy beds and even for hanging art, effectively converting a window-heavy wall into a regular gallery space. In cases where natural light is abundant, obscuring one window with a large art canvas can help achieve a more symmetrical room layout, demonstrating that sometimes a window can be temporarily 'removed' from the visual field for design purposes. Bathrooms can also benefit from unconventional vanity mirror placements. Instead of traditional wall-mounted mirrors, installing mirrors directly on countertops in front of windows can provide optimal lighting and privacy, opening up new possibilities for sink and vanity arrangements. Finally, in rooms with multiple windows on every wall, designers recommend creating symmetry by positioning twin beds under each window and balancing the space with central furniture and sconces. This makes the numerous windows appear as intentional design elements rather than challenges, transforming a potential design flaw into a harmonious and welcoming addition. #InteriorDesign #WindowDecor #SmallSpaces #HomeDecor #DesignSolutions #FurniturePlacement #CustomDesign #PrivacySolutions #RoomLayout

Mumbai-based architecture firm MuseLab, founded by Jasem Pirani and Huzefa Rangwala, has ventured into product design, creating a unique series of wall hooks inspired by iconic architectural structures. The firm, established in 2014, views design as a problem-solving exercise, whether it involves large-scale buildings or smaller, everyday objects. Their latest product line demonstrates this philosophy by scaling down renowned architectural marvels into functional and aesthetically pleasing wall accessories. Piraani and Rangwala, who met as students in America, established MuseLab with a shared vision for collaboration and innovative design. Their studio in Mumbai, characterized by a perforated jali-inspired metal screen facade, reflects their commitment to material exploration and thoughtful design. The decision to create products, including the wall hooks, was not a deliberate shift from their architectural work but rather an organic outcome of creative downtime, allowing them to work on self-directed briefs and experiment with materials. The duo extensively explored various materials before settling on birch ply, which has become a signature element in all their creations, from their studio interior to their product range. This deep understanding and appreciation for birch ply are evident in the craftsmanship of their wall hooks, which combine their passion for architecture with their love for travel. The inspiration for these hooks arose from a desire to transform mundane wall accessories into decorative objects that retain visual interest even when not in use. The selection of architectural inspirations for the wall hooks was carefully considered, balancing aesthetic appeal with practical functionality. Iconic buildings like Le Corbusier’s Palace of Assembly from the Chandigarh Capitol Complex and Charles Correa’s Kanchanjunga Apartments were natural choices, admired by the designers since their formative years. The design process involved ensuring that the chosen buildings could effectively translate into functional wall hooks. For instance, the Empire State Building was deemed unsuitable due to its slender profile, while Oscar Niemeyer’s Mondadori building provided a more appropriate form. Michael Graves’s Denver Public Library presented a unique challenge, given Graves's use of vibrant colors, which needed to be adapted to the more subdued tones of birch ply. Each wall hook is meticulously laser-cut and then hand-assembled, showcasing MuseLab’s dedication to precision and detail. Beyond wall hooks, MuseLab has also diversified its product offerings to include coasters, trivets, notebooks, and hangers. These items similarly transform ordinary objects into sophisticated design pieces through their thoughtful conception and execution, highlighting the firm's ability to imbue everyday items with extraordinary design qualities. #MuseLab #ArchitecturalDesign #ProductDesign #WallHooks #BirchPly #LeCorbusier #CharlesCorrea #OscarNiemeyer #MichaelGraves #MumbaiDesign

Space dividers are versatile tools that can enhance functionality and aesthetics in both compact and expansive living areas. They offer an effective method for delineating distinct zones within a room and introducing privacy when needed. Beyond their practical utility, modern space dividers also serve as significant design elements, contributing to a room's overall visual appeal. Mia Cullin, a designer based in Sweden, created the 'Ro room divider', which exemplifies adaptability through its combination of geometric shapes and a painted aluminum structure. Cullin's design philosophy emphasizes storytelling and personality, rooted in traditional craftsmanship. The Ro divider is customizable, offering various wood and leather options, allowing users to adjust its openness or closure according to their preferences. Another innovative solution is molo's 'Softwall', which redefines the concept of a space divider. Constructed from paper, the Softwall is easily reconfigurable, making it suitable for diverse applications, from serving as a presentation backdrop to establishing intimate settings. This product from the Vancouver-based studio, led by Stephanie Forsythe and Todd MacAllen, utilizes kraft paper, presenting a sustainable alternative for spatial organization that is both efficient and visually appealing. The 'Mirage' by Inter faces Studio offers a quick way to transform a space. This product blurs the lines between textile and furniture, comprising two tubes and textile strips. Its simple mechanism allows for effortless opening and closing, providing intimacy in shared environments while also introducing a playful element through its intuitive design. Crafting Plastics and Office MMK collaborated to create 'BreaZea', a scent-infused, 3D-printed room divider. Developed for Salone del Mobile, BreaZea utilizes Nuatan bioplastics derived from cornstarch and sugar. This innovative material emits a sweet, pleasant aroma when heated, demonstrating a novel approach to bioplastic application and adding a unique sensory dimension to space division. Finally, Dutch Invertuals designed a 'Room Divider' that is characterized by its simplicity, functionality, and visual appeal. Ideal for both private and public spaces, this divider features a high-quality finish, ensuring seamless integration into various environments. The Netherlands-based company focused on color and material selection, offering the divider in four distinct shapes: The Circle, The Oval, The Crescent, and The Diamond. These examples highlight how contemporary space dividers transcend mere practicality, becoming integral parts of interior design that define spaces, offer privacy, and serve as aesthetic focal points. #FurnitureDesign #InteriorDesign #SpaceDividers #InnovativeMaterials #SustainableDesign #3DPrinting #FlexibleLiving #ModernDesign #ResidentialDesign