Opinion: Wallpaper trends 2021

Paula Taylor, Trends & Design Expert, from Superfresco Easy unravels the key wallpaper trends set to define our homes in 2021.

Having won over many homeowners in 2020, wallpaper is set to be a must-have this year. A well-chosen design can complement an aesthetic or introduce bold elements to a room. Personal relationships with nature, materials and colours will be a focus in 2021. Purples and blues, accompanied by deep greens and soft yellows will set the tone, combined in organic and geometric shapes.

In 2020, we saw the emergence of Biophilic design, the desire to bring the outside in to connect with the natural elements. This connection was of ever-increasing importance to our health and wellbeing in urban society, as research[1] has shown that even indirect elements of nature help reduce stress, blood pressure and promotes wellbeing.

Wallpaper trend #1: Forecast – The Future is Now

Forward focused while incorporating the past, Forecast is inspired by the vivid 80s, embracing ultraviolet purples and pixelated elements. Breaking through the “less is more” minimalist motto that has been prominent in the last few years, this modern 80s trend will return with playful shapes, bold colours and eccentric patterns.

Wallpaper trends 2021Nostalgia became an interior inspiration in 2020 as we longed for times before the pandemic, but as we look to 2021 many will want to inject memories of their past with vibrancy and joy.

Wallpaper trend #2: Recharge – Self Care and Comfort

Relaxing at home will never go out of style, making interiors that reduce stress, calm and sooth a big trend for 2021. Recharge embodies balance and geometry with a need to create order through simplified structures and architectural references, such as circular shapes, cocoon-like spaces and the multi-functionality of our homes. Additionally, beautiful botanicals, greys, blues and pastels will create an experience of tranquillity.

Wallpaper trends 2021This trend will also reiterate the importance of our relationship with nature and the need to feel close to the outdoors due to the calmness it brings us.

Wallpaper trend #3: Authentic – Back to our Roots

In difficult times, we look to those we love, making social connection a powerful priority for home design in 2021. For many, injecting a sense of homeliness and togetherness, while embodying happier times into their spaces will be a must.

Wallpaper trends 2021The Authentic trend recalls the rich and comforting earth tones of the decade is further reflected in the return of oblong shapes, velvet textures, geometric ornaments and kitsch, energetic patterns.

Wallpaper trend #4: Impulse – In the Spotlight

Impulse is driven by our urge for experience. This ‘show time’ inspired trend focuses on intricate and ornate motifs. Moving away from the mid-century modern aesthetic, the art deco design movement will see a resurgence and will feature bold geometric shapes and sleek artistry in the architecture of the home.

Wallpaper trends 2021

As we invest more in craftsmanship and attention detail, we find that decadent arches and bold floral displays are notable features of this trend. Expect deep purples, berries and jewel influenced tones, combined with rich and velvety textures.

Wallpaper trend #5: Shapeshifter – Transform and Adapt

As the name suggests, Shapeshifter is all about adapting to our surroundings. For the past couple of years, we have been focused on achieving perfection in terms of our design styles, perfect shapes and neat interiors. However, a year on from the outbreak of COVID-19 where we were all thrust back to basics, we can now look to embrace imperfection in the way we style our homes.

Wallpaper trends 2021A blend of glitchy elements and hallucinogenic features drive this trend which mixes deep purple tones with statement greens and grounding greys. The divine elements of geometry combined with the wild and bold features of nature encapsulate a main trend of 2021.

Once a major investment in a home’s look, wallpaper is now a design element that can be easily changed with the trends thanks to removable options, like Superfresco Easy. Its ‘Paste the Wall’ technology allows homeowners and even renters alike to quickly put up wallpaper without the need for messy pasting tables and can be peeled off by hand without feat of ruining the wall beneath.

Superfresco Easy is available across Australia in Bunnings Warehouse and Independent Hardware Group stores, with prices starting at RRP $60 per roll. For more information click here.

[1] 14 Patterns of Biophilic Design 2014 Terrapin Bright Green