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VB Magazine - March 2022 - Paper Trail

“I sometimes hear people say, ‘Wallpaper is making a comeback,’” says Elizabeth Pusser, owner of Oodles of Wallpaper, located in Vero Beach’s Village Shops. “Actually, it’s never been dormant. It just wasn’t as accessible to the masses.”

In the past, she points out, wallpaper was available only through interior designers or in books at paint stores. Today, there is a variety of online sources as well as stores like Oodles, which has full-size samples, arranged by color and available for a small fee.  

Here in Florida, both Auger and Pusser agree, grass cloths are especially popular. “People want to display their paintings on textured walls,” says Pusser. Tropicals are also a favorite, she says, particularly among newcomers to the area. 

Many local residents, particularly newcomers, enjoy bringing the outside in with tropical motifs like this subtly hued Jannelli & Volpi design. Courtesy of Scalamandré
Many local residents, particularly newcomers, enjoy bringing the outside in with tropical motifs like this subtly hued Jannelli & Volpi design. Courtesy of Scalamandré

“Vibrant prints,” she adds, “are usually reserved for powder rooms, where people expect to find a bit of whimsy.” As far as color, 90 percent of clients choose blue-and-white patterns, while seaglass is the shade of choice for most master bedrooms. 

A hemp vinyl wall covering
in cobalt from Christopher
Farr creates a comfortable background for a sitting room in a spacious John’s Island home. Gridley + Graves, Courtesy of Moulton Layne

When choosing wallpaper, Pusser advises clients to have a color palette in mind. “Clients come in with their phone and show me photos of their room or a particular chair,” she says. “Many find inspiration from Instagram and Pinterest posts.”

Pusser also asks clients to assess their lifestyle before choosing a wallpaper. Do they have pets, grandchildren, or an art collection that may impact their choice of wall covering? 

Wallpaper is not an impulsive buy, she points out. It’s an investment in your home that requires careful consideration. “Good-quality wallpaper generally starts at about $200 per double roll, and the average powder room requires at least six rolls. Add to that the installation fee, and it adds up,” she says. 

Blue-and-white patterns in all shades are favored for their calming qualities. Courtesy of Scalamandré
Blue-and-white patterns in all shades are favored for their calming qualities. This design from Sandberg Wallpaper comes from the “Ett Hem” collection, Swedish for “at home.” Courtesy of Scalamandré

Be sure to have accurate measurements before purchasing the paper. When choosing a professional to hang it, ask about his or her experience and get an estimate and time frame for completion, Pusser suggests. 

“Whether your home is 1,500 square feet or 15,000 square feet, wallpaper–like art–can completely transform it.” 


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WHEN
March 2022
WHERE
VB Magazine - Written by Renae Tesauro