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Wall treatments never really go out of vogue, but they sure seem to be having a moment lately. From wallpaper and shiplap to moulding, panelling, lime wash and more, wall treatments are popping up everywhere in modern home design.
“They offer an easy way to add personality and depth to a space, making it feel more customized and curated,” says Candace Plotz of Candace Plotz Design. “With the increased focus on home environments, people are looking for ways to create unique, visually stimulating interiors that reflect their individual tastes and lifestyles.”
They’re also a cost-effective solution to really enhance a space, adds Jasmine Morvay ofKODA Interiors. “You can add character and personality to your room, and it does not require the most expensive materials to achieve, and usually (it’s) fairly easy to install or remove later on if you want a change.” It’s also a good solution to hide imperfections on a wall that can’t be easily repaired or re-done, she says.
Natalie Cox of CPI Interiors believes wall treatments are gaining in popularity right now because we want to add character to our open-concept homes. “It’s a great way to add old world charm and craftsmanship.” They help define a space, create a focal point and add dimension, she says.
It also doesn’t hurt that, thanks to TV shows and social media, we’re exposed more and more today to different ideas for our walls, says Tanya Collins of Tanya Collins Interior Design. “People are viewing more than ever spaces that appear well done and layered. It is not surprising people wish to recreate these looks in their own homes.”
And we need not be afraid to try it, adds Emma Doucet of Grassroots Design & Build. “It scares people because they think it’s permanent, but it really isn’t.”
Designers are seeing all sorts of wall treatments, such as:
- Moulding, panelling and reeded or fluted wall panels to add texture and layers
- Plaster and lime wash paint, which bring a timeless, artisanal quality to interiors
- Wallpaper in all forms — textured to add depth and character, murals for striking focal points, patterns for personality
- Natural materials like wood slats and stone veneers that introduce warmth and organic elements
- Tile as accent walls or feature pieces.
Wall mouldings and panelling, in particular, “are making a strong comeback because they add a touch of timeless elegance and architectural interest to any room,” Plotz says. “These elements create depth and character, offering a sophisticated backdrop that complements both classic and contemporary designs.”
Design is in the details and details are created with layers, adds Sascha Lafleur of West of Main. “Having a wall treatment, whether it be wallpaper, mouldings or paint applications, adds another layer of warmth and interest to the room, which inevitably elevates the design esthetic when done right.”
Doing it right is the key.
Collins cautions that it’s important to know when it’s appropriate to apply wall treatments and with what proportions. “Otherwise, it just becomes trendy and, worst case, out of place. The architecture of the home and the style and mood of the decor need to be considered.” She points to the recent love affair with all things shiplap, where it appeared anywhere and everywhere. But it’s best suited for farmhouse or cottage-style projects, she says, “not all projects at large.”
Realtor Jenniffer Alvarenga of the real estate firm GoodStory is increasingly seeing prospective buyers appreciating wall details. “Especially if done properly, clients get excited about the ‘feel’ they create.”
Cox applauds the trend of homeowners embracing wall treatments. “It opens up the possibilities on how to accentuate the architectural elements in their homes and is such a great way to make a statement.”