The history of wallpaper is a bit mysterious. Some say that it was invented by the Chinese while others suggest that it was the French. Jean-Michel Papillon may or may not be the inventor but most accounts agree that he was the first designer of flocked wallpaper. Whomever the accolade belongs to, wallpaper is having a resurgence, says Wendy Culbertson, Managing Director of Wallcandy. Recent technology has made today’s wallpaper simple to use, environmentally friendly and interactive, while retaining its traditional appeal.
One example of the trend for wallpaper manufacturers to move towards eco-friendly products is Graham&Brown, who use only recycled paper or paper sourced from managed forests. After encountering the range in the UK, Wendy and her husband David returned to Perth and became the exclusive stockists for Graham&Brown in Australia.
Such is the popularity of wallpaper just now that Wendy says her freshly opened Highgate store ‘has been overwhelmed with response’. No longer merely a kitsch alternative to paint, wallpaper has a few extra tricks up it’s sleeve…
Flock Effect
If you just can’t keep your hands off the walls at the Court hotel then you’ve been seduced by flock effect. This refers to the soft, velvety texture of design elements in relief. The floral elements of the Super Fresco wallpaper from Graham&Brown are completely touchable. ‘The trend is fun with lots of colour – mixing florals and stripes together,’ says Wendy.
Designer Walls
Many designers are now releasing wallpaper ranges. Fashion designer Julien Macdonald, who has collaborated with Karl Lagerfeld and Chanel, has teamed up with Graham&Brown to develop a glamorous collection. Designer Lawrence Llewelyn-Brown’s collection has a focus on minimalism and texture – have a peek at his signature beige scroll design. ‘There are also rich lush designs with that burlesque look about them, together with modern geometrics – something to suit all,’ Wendy explains. For something less formal, Superfresco has developed a mix’n’match range that pairs patterns with plains.
Interactive Technology
One of the most popular Graham&Brown designs is the interactive ‘Frames’ wallpaper. It appeals to adults and children alike because it is the user who ultimately chooses what goes in to the frames – perfect for displaying first artworks or those of a more sophisticated nature. Early wallpaper designs were created to resemble architectural details such as marble but evolving technology has allowed greater detail through the use of digital image papers. Concrete, stone and brick are some of the high resolution images available.
Wallcandy has an at home service to help you out with ‘papers, colours and ideas in general’. Or have some fun browsing the website www.grahambrown.com.au.
You can find Wall Candy on Queen Street in Fremantle or Beaufort Street in Highgate.
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