At the height of its popularity, wallpaper around the world offered an eclectic range of tastes, spanning everything from subtle floral arrangements to brilliant displays of a setting sun. Ubiquitous in homes and wildly polymorphic, the peoples’ love for diversely characterised walls was undeniable. Having faded into obscurity for the better half of a century, wallpaper has returned to roll back the years.
Trending Once Again: Why?
After being phased out for simple paint and the collective yearn for a more modern aesthetic, wallpaper fell out of favour of homeowners and designers around the world. In the late 2010s, however, this all changed, with young homeowners now acting as the driving force behind a reignited love for wallpaper. This can be attributed largely to the high amount of personalisation afforded by the abundance of designs available, as well as rising interior trends such maximalism, which places rich colours and extravagant patterns as its focal point. The spotlight, however, seemingly has not yet reached the difficulties in maintenance, humidity, and removal.
Is it Suitable for New Zealand homes?
Wallpaper’s mortal enemy, humidity, can pose a significant challenge in application and maintenance. While New Zealand humidity is not considered extreme, it can certainly be an annoyance in more coastal regions. Moisture and mould buildup can cause peeling and hygiene issues, especially around the seams. We all know New Zealand weather to be wildly fickle, but it has the benefit of avoiding extremes in temperature. With advances in humidity-resistant wallpaper and room ventilation, enjoying a freshly decorated wall should be available to every New Zealander (so long as you avoid the kitchen and bathrooms).
With personalisation being a key trend of the modern age, designing your home to be just for you is more relevant than ever. It can liven up your space and compliment your design language.
Works cited:
