How to Add Charm to Your Home: Paint and Wallpaper
The best way to add instant character to your new build: paint and wallpaper
Goodbye builder grade home and hello charming home with personality! There are endless possibilities when it comes to wallpaper and paint, and it’s a design aspect that should definitely not be overlooked. If part one felt a little too unattainable, this one is for you.
Let’s get started!
Part 2: Paint & Wallpaper
cover all walls
Let me hold your hand as I say this... no more accent walls! The impact you are trying to create with wallpaper or paint can’t be achieved through one wall alone. Most of the time your room ends up feeling disjointed when you try to force an accent wall.
murals
There is such a pull towards craftsmanship lately, and this is just one example of it. If you’re not an artist yourself, this is a great opportunity to support local talent. Murals are most suited for traditional or Spanish style homes.
colour drenching
You’ve seen this around for a few years now, and for good reason! It envelopes you in the best way, and it’s proof that not all ceilings and trim have to be white.
cabinetry details
Highlight your cabinetry with a contrasting trim on your doors. This would look so chic in a bathroom or closet.
borders are back baby
Don’t worry, the 90's harvest kitchen borders aren’t what we’re talking about. Adding a wallpapered or painted border is an easy addition and draws your eyes up. Keep in mind that your wallpaper style should be aligned with the architectural style of your home.
paint for your own joy
If a colour makes you happy, but you don’t want to be overwhelmed by it: try finding little hidden spaces that you can paint like in a wardrobe or pantry. Colour can bring so much joy, so don’t stray away from it!
cost saver: wainscotting
If you’re wanting to add the warmth of wallpaper, but are wallpapering a large space or are concerned with the price tag, adding wainscotting can cut down the cost significantly. If you have wallpanelling from floor to ceiling, try wallpaper in each panelled box.
wallpapered wardrobes
I think your closet doors are begging for some character! So fun and less of a commitment than wallpapering your entire room.
for the neutral home
If adding colour scares you, try just painting your doors and trim. Even if you want to stay neutral, painting your trim a few shades darker than your walls elevates your space instantly.
ceiling feature
As mentioned in part one, don’t neglect your ceilings! If you have a long hallway with lots of doors, adding wallpaper to the ceiling can add charm where there would’ve been no room for it.
consider your paint finish
If you want to add a little more interest, try playing with your paint finishes. I especially love painting trim and built-ins in a higher shine in a colour drenched room.
accent in the right way
To make an accent wall feel intentional, it already has to be structurally separated. Think inside a niche like in this photo, in a reading nook, in a built-in desk area, or in a dining nook that is framed out.
stairs with personality
Builder grade homes tend to simplify most architectural features. If you don’t want to add additional trim and moulding, being intentional with your paint location can make the biggest difference.
think of the unexpected
Look for new ways to add wallpaper to your space. in built-ins, a cupboard door, or in a bookcase to highlight the pieces on display.
hand painted details
Similar to the murals, adding a touch of hand painting can be so charming. This style works best in cottages, heritage homes, or kids rooms.
highlighting walkways
In part one we talked about highlighting your walkways with wood or moulding, but another way is through paint. If you want to add a bit of playfulness or interest to a commercial space or a kids room: try adding a pattern or painted art on the inside of your walkway.
I hope this gave you some new inspiration to save for your next interior project. Contact me and we can get it started!
Stay tuned for Part 3 of How To Add Charm to Your Home: Lighting
*All images were sourced from Pinterest. You can find all pins on our Pinterest boards.