Are Murals the New Wallpaper?

In many ways, murals are becoming the new wallpaper—or at least a creative evolution of it. Wallpaper has long been used as a way to add personality and style to spaces, but murals take that concept even further, offering a sense of artistry, narrative, and customisability that wallpaper can't always match. Here are a few reasons why murals might be seen as the "new wallpaper":

1. Customisation

Murals can be completely custom-designed to fit a particular space, style, or theme, allowing homeowners and businesses to bring their visions to life. Unlike traditional wallpaper, which is often mass-produced in predetermined patterns, murals offer a higher degree of personalisation.

2. Artistic Expression

Murals are often created by artists and can make a room feel like a gallery. They bring an element of storytelling, creativity, and emotion to a space that traditional wallpaper may lack. Whether abstract, botanical, or scenic, murals add a layer of visual interest that elevates the overall aesthetic.

3. Trend Shift

As minimalism and neutral color schemes have reigned in interior design for the past decade, there has been a shift toward bolder, more personalized, and expressive decor. Murals cater to this desire for individuality and uniqueness, offering a way for people to break free from cookie-cutter design trends.

4. Tech Innovations

Advances in digital printing technology have made it easier than ever to create murals. Today, murals can be printed on high-quality vinyl, fabric, or even directly onto walls, making them as easy to install (and remove) as wallpaper.

5. A Sense of Place

Murals can also create a strong sense of place—whether it’s a beach scene in a coastal home or a geometric design in a modern loft. They help connect a space to a feeling, culture, or location, which is something traditional wallpaper patterns don't always achieve.

6. Durability and Maintenance

Murals, especially those printed on vinyl or canvas, can be more durable than traditional wallpaper and easier to clean. Many are washable or come with protective coatings that make them ideal for high-traffic areas or rooms with children and pets.

7. Eco-Friendly Options

Some mural artists and companies are using environmentally friendly inks, paints, and materials, making them a sustainable alternative to traditional wallpaper, which often contains chemicals or isn't recyclable.

8. Wall Size and Impact

Murals typically cover a larger portion of the wall than wallpaper, creating a more dramatic visual impact. This can be especially appealing in feature areas like accent walls, home offices, or living rooms where a bold statement is desired.

9. Global Influence

The rise of mural culture, particularly in cities around the world (like in Berlin, Mexico City, or Los Angeles), has made murals more mainstream. These cultural touchstones make it easier to see how murals can transform a space with local flair, history, or a global perspective.

Conclusion:

While wallpaper remains a classic choice, murals are undeniably carving out their own niche in interior design. They're seen as a way to inject more individuality and artfulness into a room, making them a more dynamic alternative to traditional wall coverings. Whether used to create an immersive scene, convey a bold design statement, or add a touch of personal flair, murals are shaping up to be an exciting design trend that transcends the limitations of traditional wallpaper