Experts Weigh in on the Nuances of
Wallcoverings Fit to Print
Vision is perhaps the most acute sense with which humans discern information about the world – in the context of interiors, space – so much so that it can elicit a visceral reaction. If utilized properly, wallpapers can dramatically support the aesthetic and energetic goals of a fully realized design. When introducing color, pattern, and texture at any scale, it’s important to consider how those elements might hold a deeper meaning and with whom there may be resonance.
“I always bring it back to a feeling place with my clients. Prioritizing what they are navigating in their lives, and the effect that has on the intention and use of the space, is paramount to me,” says Sarah Rigano, vibrational designer and founder of FORM + LIGHT. “From there I gently guide them toward what would be of greatest benefit as our spaces are vital containers that can nurture, heal, and inspire us if we treat them so,” she adds. “For example, someone in need of grounding, respite, or anxiety reduction? Organic shapes, reflections of the natural world, muted colors. Working through loss, grief, unease, or trouble sleeping? Soft colors, curved lines, blurred forms. Seeking inspiration, focus, boundaries? Bold patterns, strong lines, statement colors.”
With a market supersaturated in surface pattern designs and a myriad of options, it can be difficult to parse prints to find one accommodating of taste, budget, installation limitations, as well as material, like printed, plaster, or textile. Laura Guido-Clark, the former Creative Director of Materials Innovation at Herman Miller and founder of Love Good Color, offers a roadmap for those looking for nuanced decision making – and a bit of anthropological commentary on contemporary visual language. Guido-Clark breaks it down into four shared throughlines:
“I always bring it back to a feeling place with my clients. Prioritizing what they are navigating in their lives, and the effect that has on the intention and use of the space, is paramount to me,” says Sarah Rigano, vibrational designer and founder of FORM + LIGHT. “From there I gently guide them toward what would be of greatest benefit as our spaces are vital containers that can nurture, heal, and inspire us if we treat them so,” she adds. “For example, someone in need of grounding, respite, or anxiety reduction? Organic shapes, reflections of the natural world, muted colors. Working through loss, grief, unease, or trouble sleeping? Soft colors, curved lines, blurred forms. Seeking inspiration, focus, boundaries? Bold patterns, strong lines, statement colors.”
