For most home owners who are planning a renovation, the question “What should we do with the walls?” is usually translated as a question about what colour paint they were planning to use. However, there are actually quite a few different wall treatments that are available when redecorating, many of which get overlooked.
In fact, interior designer and former winner of The Block, Shannon Vos was recently asked about his preferred options in wall treatments, and provided different options that home owners can consider.
Paint
Of all the different wall treatments, many would argue that paint provides more ‘bang for your buck’ of any form of home improvement. For example, a fresh coat of paint in a tone like a yellow, orange or red can add warmth and character, but don’t overdo it. Warm tones need to be paired with cooler tones to maintain a sense of balance, whilst simply adding an undertone to a wide range of colours can add warmth to a room.
Wall panels
Panelling has been around for as long as home decoration has been in the dictionary, providing an alternative to plain plasterboard. Options like timber veneers, acoustic panels and sculptured panels can be used to fill a wall, or as a dado, adding visual appeal as well as a tactile element.
Cladding
Many people associate cladding with the exterior of a building, but nowadays it can also be used to add warmth or a visual highlight. Timber batten cladding is a long-standing favourite, whilst materials like cement cladding can play a role in an industrial theme.
Wallpaper
As we have mentioned in PAST POSTS ON WALLPAPER, this wall treatment option has been making a comeback in recent years. Wallpaper can add extra interest to a room, but you need to choose your options carefully depending on what room you are decorating.
Curtains
Many people tend to forget that drapes are as much a part of the walls as they are the windows. Whilst they have a clear function and purpose, fabric is both visual and tactile. On a cold winter’s day, drapes can both add to the warmth of the décor, as well helping to keep the real warmth inside.
One final point…as we often remind our readers, if you are planning a renovation in order to prepare your property for sale, be sure to chat with one of the team at Ian Reid Vendor Advocates before you start. Not only can we save you money by advising you on what the buyers will respond to, (and what they won’t), but in some cases you might be better off selling your property unrenovated.
You’ll also find lots of helpful tips on selling your property in our free booklet, “FATAL REAL ESTATE TRAPS EXPOSED”. Feel free to download a copy while you’re here.