But a number of my project have wallpaper in them, why is that?
I'm not adverse to wallpaper. As a child the mid-century modern home Dad built in Avonhead had some wallpaper. In the lounge a feature wall had a beautiful wallpaper with vertical tread adhered to it, in a really nice green. I loved the look and feel of this textured paper. It looked great against the white concrete block walls and dark mahogany furniture of our 1965 family home. I also had wallpaper in my bedroom which was textured like exposed aggregate and painted a sandy colour. I used to lie in bed imagining animals, figures and landscapes in the texture just as you do when lying on the grass looking up at the clouds.
So, given all this why have I never specified wallpaper? The answer is simple I suggest it to clients I think might be open to the idea and then leave it to them to find something special. Clients want this, they want a sense of ownership in the design beyond their input at design meetings. Giving clients the freedom to make some design and selection choices gives them this ownership. I love it when they proudly lead you to the room where the wallpaper is installed. These are the moments I remember the most from a fun project with my amazing clients.
This client chose a foliage pattern which goes really well with the interior materials, leathered finish granite bench top, oak veneer vanity unit and polished concrete floor. It also blends with the bush landscape visible through the narrow window when the wooden blind is open. Having the full width mirror gives twice as much wallpaper for no extra cost
I've seen some very bold and bright wallpapers in my time and while I might not have selected them for myself these wallpapers are not about me, they are about my clients and that is the way it should be.
If you want to work with an architect who designs for you and with you then give me a call.
I am Graeme Jacobs a Christchurch based Architect designing high performance homes that are bespoke and beautiful.
Builder- John Garlick Builders
Photo - Mick Stephenson Photography
