Design Day Friday: Wallpaper with No Commitment

Antlers

Mention wallpaper to anyone not in the design industry and you'll probably get a facial expression similar to asking a 6 year old to eat brussels sprouts. Well, ask me and I'll tell you I love wallpaper AND brussels sprouts!

The stigma of wallpaper is likely derived from the mid-century foils, florals and chintz patterns that covered bathrooms, bedrooms and kitchens and when removed took everything but the plumbing down with them. Later, the wallpaper boarder trend reared its ugly head. Rooms suddenly became accessorized in the same way a poorly placed belt accentuates the worst part of your figure. Hence, wallpaper hung its head in shame. (pun intended). 

The wallpaper of today isn't granny's wallpaper and designers are using it in the most creative ways ever. Wallpaper can add unique personality to a space that takes it from average to spectacular. In many of today's mass-market-architecturally-lacking new construction homes, wallpaper can add texture and drama to a cookie cutter floor plan...and...it just got better. I have been introduced to a product that takes wallpaper love to a whole new level.  It's wallpaper without commitment.  Not to mention it comes in fabulous graphic prints. Don't stop at walls. This stuff could be the next chalkboard paint! 

It's from a company called Chasing Paper. A female owned company, so we especially love them, that developed a peel and stick paper that stays in place but removes without harming the surface below. Making it very forgiving to install. Here's what Chasing Paper is all about:

"Peel it, stick it, love it. It's beautiful, well-designed paper that will stick to nearly any surface. Go ahead and get creative!

Chasing Paper was born in the hustling sparkle of New York City, but its roots are in the Heartland. It was created from conversations with serial movers, stylish mamas, renters who feel like anything but, DIYers, and, of course, commitment-phobes. 

Chasing Paper is for everyone. It makes small projects affordable and big jobs a breeze. We are invested in the accessibility of simple design and the power of transformation." 

They have a ton of designs, but I picked my top five (which changes all the time). Who can blame me? Happy Peelin' and Stickin' Ta.

That's a Plus

Sexy Hexy

Simple Stripe

Circle and Pop

Dot

Photo credit: Chasing Papers

Decorate On Over To The Dark Side

The thought of painting a wall in your home black let alone an entire room for many congers up images of dark, oppressive and dungeon like spaces. Quite the contrary, one of the biggest trends in interior design is the black wall. Rooms become crisp, elegant and loaded with personality. This trend is not limited to ultra modern style. It pairs nicely as an update to traditional or transitional style. Like this sweet little yellow and black number.

There are a few guidelines to help you pull this dramatic do-over off successfully: 1. If you paint, make sure you have a well prepared surface. Black dresses are forgiving, black walls, not so much. Fill all nail holes, sand well and caulk any necessary imperfections. 2. If your walls just aren't up to the task, use a black tone on tone wall paper to get the same effect and a smoother finish. Its like Spanx for your dining room! 3. Pair with a very clean color palette. Stick with neutrals such as white, or shades of cream or linen. Use only one strong accent color and distribute it conservatively. 4. Mix texture, this gives interest and breaks up the dominance of the harsh black backdrop. Include wood, fabric and natural elements. 5. Finally, keep all your patterns monochromatic. The room should be cohesive and not overpowered by layers of pattern and color. I love this dining room. It is a great example of all the elements, done simply.

There are more awesome rooms out there so go find your inspiration and let me know how it goes!