Let your walls do the talking

If you thought that walls are meant just for paint or wallpaper and the odd picture frame, think again. The market today is flooded with options that specifically cater to your wall’s needs and can transform them enormously. And this makes doing up the walls at home a fun activity!

Jazz it up

Walls give character to your home and it is necessary to use the right materials and decor that would best suit the space. For instance, if you are looking to add a bit of zing to your walls, 3D wall tiles and glass pebble wallpapers is one way to go. “Due to its convenience, many are opting for wallgraphix. As they are easy to apply and remove, it is an ideal DIY solution to decorate your walls as frequently as you wish,” says Atul Anand, CEO, Classic Stripes.

Another aspect that adds the extra oomph factor to your walls is textured paint techniques. “The ones available in the country include 3D wall decals, chalkboard paints, textured wallpapers (with finishes ranging from stitched leather to glass beaded), and tactile tiles such as mother of pearl,” says Shagufta Anurag, chief design evangelist, Livspace.

In terms of wall materials, using tiles and stones are an upcoming trend. “These are being used to accentuate living spaces. It is extensively being used in outdoor spaces, living rooms and lobbies,” says Dr Sanjay Bahadur, global CEO — construction chemicals, Pidilite Industries.

Enumerating a few popular stone materials, Vikas Kesarkar, vice-president — marketing, Classic Marble Company says, “Kalingastones have a look and feel that is almost as rich as natural stone. Likewise, there are big-sized tiles that are redefining the compositional potential of various surfaces from floors to walls. Large-sized slab collections are a hit in the residential and commercial spaces for its durability and flexibility.”

If you are thinking of choosing unique shelving systems or multipurpose wall units, there are many that can add to the space’s aesthetics. Bio-walls or living walls is one such innovation and it comes in a variety of sizes. Here, plants are grown in a freestanding position or it is attached to the existing wall.

A decorative element that always remains in vogue is a photo wall. It also makes for a great ice-breaker. “This is a mix of large and small photo frames, or of the same size with a combination of photos in various tones, such as black and white, and even sepia,” says Namita Agarwal, head — interior design, MebelKart.com.

A simple wall can be spruced up in many ways. One such way is using geometric shapes and cable designs. “These change the dynamics of the space and make it more interesting. The mix of old and new stone tiles or brick wall wall-paper designs with antique items and vintage accent pieces are in vogue,” avers Ankita Jha, product designer, Godrej Interio.

Trending now

Interiors, today, are moving towards becoming calmer and more polished. Hence, the key to designing any space is balance between form and functionality. “A shift from ornate to functional, elegant and modern design will command the design space,” elaborates Minnie Bhatt, interior designer, Minnie Bhatt Designs.

Geometric patterns and textured wall design ideas in multilayer and LED backlighting will be prominent, adds Dhaval Dadia, director, Hashtagdecor.com.

“Additionally, murals with attractive themes and Indian folk art in various styles, colours and materials are also popular,” says Shibani Jain, founder and CEO, Baaya Design.
Colour-wise, one can expect a lot a variety this year. “As India is a warm country, it will continue to see colour, particularly those that are vibrant. These will play an important role in interior spaces, especially on walls,” elaborates Minnie. Pastel shades will see a lot of prominence. Think colours like pink, lilac, powder blue, mint green and the like, notes Dhaval. One of the most popular colour finishes to adorn the walls is ombre. “This is a blending of dark to light shades of a colour from bottom to top,” explains Harsh Jain, CEO, Nestopia.

Wallpapers will be soaring in popularity too. Especially those peelable ones. “They can be used as a decorative accent. Also, they are easier to remove and can be replaced without leaving any residue behind,” says Pankaj Kumar Jain, director, K W Group. Wallpapers with matte finishes and anti-glare see a strong following. “Straight lines, squares, rectangles and unique textures in earthen colours are a preferred choice,” opines Vijay Aggarwal, managing director, Prism Cements Ltd.

One of the extravagant and chic wall design trends this season is the textured decorative wall panels and tiled walls. “Wall panels create an extraordinary 3D effect and bring life into modern interior design and creatively transform spaces. Made of different materials like wood, bamboo and steel, these designs are amazing and trendy,” avers Roopesh Gupta, CEO, P3 Architectural Solutions. Wall panels with decorative fabrics is
another unusual trend. “Artwork in a mix of mediums will also be popular,” adds Aprajita Davar Suri, creative director, FabFurnish.com.

Decorative walls create an attractive contrast and work well with exclusive furniture and decor accessories, creating a chic interior. “Drapes or contrasting decor accessories can also play an important role when you need the wall decor to merge with the interiors theme,” says Saloni Khosla, head designer, Pepperfry.

The use of long, stretched glass panels, padded upholstery and a lot of wood and mica-based works is also seeing a huge demand. “People are using a lot of wood-inspired looks to add a bit of creativity,” agrees Sagar Datta, owner and interior designer, Casa Interio.

Expert mantras

However, it’s important not to get carried away with all these cool trends. Make just one wall of a particular room or space the focal point and decorate it accordingly. Try not to make it too loud and jazzy. “Use a subtle combination of tones in different materials such as cladding your walls up with interesting wallpaper and letting a spotlight reflect onto it,” advises Leila Erfan, creative director, ARIA Interior Design.

Another point to keep in mind while decorating your wall is to always coordinate its colour and decor with the room’s furniture. One way of doing so is by adding a few accessories on to your wall to add a touch of glamour. Try wallpaper decals for a fab effect. “These are back in fashion and are unbelievably convenient,” says Parushni Agarwal, founder and creative director, Studio Creo. “Another trendy way to decorate the walls is with china plates in various patterns, colours and sizes.”

To up the wall’s glam quotient, you can put up rugs too. “This is emerging as an alternative to textured walls and accent walls. It is something that can easily be incorporated in any home,” says Ayush Choudhary, MD, Cocoon Fine Rugs.

With so many options for you to choose from, it’s time to put on that thinking cap and create your perfect wall — something that will add that bit of ‘wow’ factor that you were always looking for.