THE WONDERS OF WALLCOVERINGS

The importance of wallcoverings within an interior design has been strengthened in recent years thanks to wallpaper companies introducing exciting new textures, finishes and designs that completely change the look and feel of a space. Natural materials such as grass cloth, bamboo and cork offer a tactile and organic ambience which has become hugely popular, especially in Mediterranean-style homes. Botanical prints and designs referencing nature are still very much present in the new collections, bringing outside spaces into the home. Textured and embossed wallpapers add depth and dimension to walls and provide a tactile element. Subtle textures and muted colour palettes help to create a calm and serene atmosphere. Also, don’t be afraid to go for darker tones, as more sultry hues can create a warm visual impact and a cosy, intimate feel. However, for those who want to make more of a statement, metallic finishes add a touch of glamour and luxury, creating an elegant aesthetic. Geometric patterns, such as bold stripes, chevrons and abstract designs are a great way to draw the eye and create a focal point in a room. With an increasing emphasis on eco-friendly and sustainable design, there is a growing demand for wallcoverings made from recycled materials, natural fibres or low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) paints and dyes. These choices reflect a firm commitment to environmental consciousness.

Right Au Pied du Ventoux is just one of a number of designs from Élitis’ La Caravane collection on embossed vinyl with a raffia weave. The colourful and bold abstract panoramic design is ideal for a statement wall, offering conviviality and artistic expression. This wallcovering is ready to view at the Alison Bethell Collins Interior Design showroom in Avda. del Mediterráneo, San Pedro de Alcántara (www.alisonbethellcollins.com), and is also available from UDesign in Polígono Industrial San Pedro de Alcántara (www.udesign.es), Ambience Home Design in C.C. La Poveda in Marbella (www.ambiencehomedesign.com), Gunni & Trentino in Marbella Club (www.gunnitrentino.es), Siesta Interior Design in C. Plaza in Nueva Andalucía (www.siestainteriordesign.com) and Acoola in Pol. Ind. San Pedro (www.acoola.eu)

Below Ciclope by Sartoria, shown here in green, depicts ancient walls that were made from large stone blocks. The collection is developed on vinyl-coated TNT papers, which are ecological and PVC-free, and fibreglass – so it can be applied in wet areas such as a bathroom or kitchen (www.sartoria.design)

Right The Mufarina Wet System wallcovering from Wall&decò is resistant to water, making it ideal for bathroom and kitchen areas. Wall&decò is available from UDesign in Polígono Industrial San Pedro de Alcántara (www.udesign.es)

Below Right Embrace is from Eijffinger’s newest collection and comes in four different colourways. Cortidea is an official retailer of Eijffinger. They are situated on the Mijas Road and in Urb. Marbella Real in Marbella (www.cortidea.es)

Below Clorofilla by Inkiostro Bianco is a harmonious graphic that brings together geometric and botanical elements with a rich iridescent effect. Inkiostro Bianco is available from UDesign in Polígono Industrial San Pedro de Alcántara (www.udesign.es) and Gunni & Trentino in Marbella Club (www.gunnitrentino.es)

Farrow & Ball’s new Dead Flat multi-surface paint, shown here in their Calke Green colourway, provides an ultra-matt finish for walls, woodwork and metal. Its richness of colour and unprecedented durability are second-to-none, and it is easy to apply – offering a deep pigmented matt aesthetic (www.farrow-ball.com)