Walls - Decorating Details

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Add texture, create depth and even alter the perspective of a room with these simple yet effective wall treatments.

PANELLING
Simple and geometric, panelling with its strong vertical lines can give a room the illusion of width. Panelling tends to be finished higher than the usual chair which helps draw the eye upwards to a focal point. This can be something like a collection of framed photographs.
Paint the panelling a slightly darker shade of the wall colour to give a sense of warmth and depth.

SQUARES
For a contemporary take on traditional panelling choose a room such as the dining room and fix rectangular panels to the wall. Do this in a uniformed manner from floor to ceiling and this will create the illusion of height. Only use the panelling on one wall for dramatic impact and paint the panels the same colour as the other walls.

SKIRTING
Add a classic feel to a room such as the hallway by fitting an extra-wide skirting board and a chair rail. This look will suit high ceilings, whereas a low ceiling can be made to look higher by positioning the chair rail lower than the usual 90cm from the floor. Also, if you make the skirting and chair rail a little narrow this will help too.

PAINT
Before picture rails were used to divide up walls, interest could be added by painting strips of colour. Use this technique to produce a clean and simple finish, perfect for contemporary schemes.

NICHES
For practicality and charm, cut out square niches in a dividing wall and use the niches as shelves to display books and your favourite objects. Again, a low ceiling can be made to feel higher by adding niches further up the wall. Try and think asymmetrically if you want to add interest and think symmetrically if you want to create a sense of unity and calmness.

PAPER
As a contemporary twist on the conventional headboard or a continuation of it, try hanging strips of wallpaper horizontally up the wall above your bed. Cut them to the width of the bed and leave 5cm spaces in between each piece letting the paint behind show through. This can create a lovely focal point and make the room look wider.