How to remove old wallpaper like a pro
Removing old wallpaper can feel like tackling a long-forgotten project, but it’s totally doable with the right prep and tools. Whether you’ve inherited dated wallpaper from the previous homeowner or you’re just ready for a fresh look, rolling up your sleeves and getting it off the walls can be surprisingly satisfying. Let’s break down the process step-by-step, so you can get from wallpapered to wall-ready without tearing your hair out (or your walls apart).
Preparing the room and protecting surfaces
Before diving into the wallpaper removal, preparation is key. You don’t want to make a bigger mess than necessary. Start by clearing as much furniture as possible from the room, or at least push it into the center and cover it with a protective sheet or plastic tarp. Protect your floors with drop cloths—especially if you’re using water or steam to remove the wallpaper.
Switch off the electricity in the room and cover outlets and light switches with painter’s tape, as you’ll be working with moisture, and you don’t want water dripping into the wiring. Finally, grab a good ladder (preferably one with a wide base) if your wallpaper goes all the way up to the ceiling. Safety first!
Dry method vs. wet method: Choose your weapon
There are two main ways to remove wallpaper: dry and wet. Which method works best depends on the type of wallpaper you’re dealing with and how long it’s been stuck to the wall. Let’s explore both options.
Dry removal (for peelable wallpaper)
If you’re lucky, your wallpaper is peelable, meaning you can simply peel it off the wall in large strips. Start by loosening one corner of the wallpaper with a utility knife or wallpaper scorer, then carefully peel it back at a low angle. If the wallpaper doesn’t tear, you may be able to remove whole panels at a time. But don’t get too excited if the outer layer comes off easily—often, you’ll be left with a backing paper that still needs to be removed using the wet method.
Wet removal (for older or stubborn wallpaper)
For stubborn, old-school wallpaper, the wet method is your best friend. Fill a bucket with hot water and mix in a splash of vinegar or wallpaper-removal solution (available at most hardware stores). You can also try adding a little fabric softener to the water—believe it or not, it helps loosen the glue. Using a sponge or a large brush, generously soak the wallpaper starting from the top of the wall, allowing the water to penetrate for about 10-15 minutes. Be patient here—the longer the wallpaper soaks, the easier it’ll be to scrape off.
Helpful materials for wallpaper removal: Water, vinegar, and steam
If vinegar and water aren’t doing the trick, or the wallpaper has been there since the dawn of time, it’s time to break out the big guns: a wallpaper steamer. Steamers are especially useful for stubborn adhesives that have fused with the wall over the years. A wallpaper steamer essentially applies concentrated heat and moisture, softening the glue and making it easier to scrape off.
Your tool kit: What you’ll need
There are a few essential tools you’ll want to have on hand to make this process as smooth as possible:
- Utility knife or wallpaper scorer: Helps you get under the wallpaper and create perforations for moisture to penetrate.
- Putty knife or scraper: For lifting and removing wallpaper after it’s been softened with water or steam.
- Sponge or brush: To apply water or your removal solution to the wall.
- Bucket and vinegar (or wallpaper remover): Your mix of choice for the wet method.
- Wallpaper steamer (optional): For particularly stubborn paper that refuses to come off.
- Goggles and gloves: For protection when working with hot steam or messy solutions.
Scraping: Time to get hands-on
Now that your wallpaper is nice and soggy, it’s time to scrape it off. Using a wide putty knife or scraper, gently lift the softened wallpaper from the wall. Be careful not to gouge the wall underneath—slow and steady wins the race. If any stubborn patches remain, reapply more of your water-vinegar solution or hit them with the steamer for a few extra seconds.
Cleaning up and sprucing up the walls
Once the wallpaper is gone (cue applause), you might be left with glue residue. Don’t panic. Using warm water, a sponge, and a little more vinegar, scrub the walls to remove any remaining adhesive. This step is important, especially if you plan to paint or apply new wallpaper, as leftover glue can interfere with the new surface.
Let the walls dry thoroughly, and if any parts of the wall got damaged in the process, now’s the time to patch them up with spackle or filler. Once dry, sand the walls smooth, and voila! You’re ready to move forward with your new design project.
Final cleanup
Now that the wallpaper is down, you’ll need to clean up the aftermath. Gather all the wallpaper scraps, along with the drop cloths, and dispose of them properly. Give your floors a quick sweep or vacuum to pick up any remaining bits, and wipe down the furniture you moved. Before putting your room back together, check to ensure the walls are fully dry, especially if you’re planning to paint soon.
Conclusion: Ready for a fresh start
Removing old wallpaper may seem daunting, but with the right tools and some patience, you can get it done without too much hassle. Once that outdated design is stripped away, you’ll have a clean canvas ready for your next big idea. And who knows? Maybe you’ll even start enjoying the process enough to tackle another room.
If you’re looking for expert advice or need personalized guidance from an architect, feel free to contact us.
The most common interior design mistakes (and how to avoid them)
When it comes to interior design, there are some pitfalls that can sneak up on even the most seasoned decorators. You might have the perfect vision in mind, but one wrong move and suddenly your chic living room feels chaotic, or that cozy bedroom you dreamed of looks cramped. Don’t worry, though—these mistakes are common, and best of all, they’re totally fixable. Let’s walk through the most frequent design blunders and how you can steer clear of them.
Ignoring scale and proportion
One of the biggest mistakes people make in interior design is ignoring scale and proportion. It’s easy to fall in love with a massive sectional sofa, but if it’s way too big for your living room, it’ll dominate the space in all the wrong ways. On the flip side, furniture that’s too small for a room can make the space feel empty and awkward. Balance is key!
To get it right, visualize the room as a whole. Pay attention to the size of your furniture relative to the room, as well as to other pieces in the space. One quick fix is using painter’s tape to mark out where your furniture will go—this lets you test its footprint without lifting a finger.
Overdecorating: When too much is, well, too much
Decor is meant to enhance your space, not overwhelm it. One of the most common mistakes? Overdecorating. When you try to cram too many decorative items—whether it’s pillows, wall art, or trinkets—into a space, it starts to feel cluttered and chaotic. As design icon William Morris said, “Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful.”
To avoid this, curate your decor carefully. Less really can be more, and a few well-chosen items will make a bigger impact than a room full of mismatched pieces. If you’re unsure, take a step back and remove a few things. You’ll be surprised how much calmer and more stylish your space feels.
Forgetting the flow of the room
Have you ever walked into a room and immediately felt cramped or unsure of where to go? That’s what happens when you ignore traffic flow in a space. If furniture is placed in a way that blocks pathways or forces people to squeeze through tight spots, the room becomes uncomfortable to navigate.
To avoid this, think about how you and others will move through the space. Leave enough room to walk comfortably between pieces of furniture, and ensure that doorways, windows, and important features (like fireplaces) aren’t blocked by large objects.
Poor lighting choices
Lighting is the unsung hero of interior design. You can have the most beautifully furnished room, but if the lighting is off, it’ll fall flat. One of the most common mistakes? Relying on just one light source, typically an overhead fixture. This casts harsh shadows and doesn’t do your room any favors in terms of creating depth or warmth.
Instead, aim for layered lighting: a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting. Table lamps, floor lamps, and wall sconces add dimension and make your space feel more inviting. Plus, you’ll never be squinting in a poorly lit corner again!
Pushing all the furniture against the walls
There’s a common impulse to push all the furniture against the walls to “open up” the space. While this might make sense in theory, in practice, it can leave the center of your room feeling like a sad, empty void. Even in small spaces, this can make the room feel disjointed and awkwardly spaced.
The trick? Float your furniture! Pull sofas and chairs inward to create cozy seating arrangements. Use a rug to anchor the space and give it structure. By letting the furniture “breathe” away from the walls, you create a more intimate and visually interesting layout.
Ignoring the power of a good rug
Rugs are more than just a pretty accessory—they’re key to pulling a room together. One of the most common design mistakes is using a rug that’s too small for the space. A tiny rug makes everything feel disjointed and out of place, like the furniture is floating rather than grounded.
The solution? Size up! Ideally, your rug should be large enough for all the furniture in a seating area to sit on it, or at least for the front legs of the main pieces to rest on it. This creates a cohesive, anchored look that ties the room together.
Matchy-matchy overload
While it’s tempting to match everything—your furniture, your curtains, your cushions—going too matchy-matchy can make a room feel stale and uninspired. You want a sense of cohesion, but it shouldn’t look like everything was bought from the same showroom on the same day.
The fix? Mix it up! Combine textures, materials, and even styles to add depth and personality to your space. An eclectic mix of modern and vintage pieces, for example, can give your room a more dynamic and interesting vibe.
Neglecting personal style
It’s easy to get swept up in the latest trends, but the biggest mistake of all? Forgetting to inject your personal style into the design. A home should reflect your personality and taste, not just what’s currently trending on Instagram.
Design isn’t about following rules or recreating what you’ve seen in a catalog—it’s about making a space that feels like you. So, don’t be afraid to break a few design “rules” and choose what you love. After all, the best interiors are the ones that tell a story, your story.
Conclusion: Design with intention
Interior design is full of opportunities to get creative, but it’s also easy to make mistakes. By paying attention to scale, decluttering, layering your lighting, and keeping the flow of the room in mind, you can avoid some of the most common pitfalls. Ultimately, design should reflect your personality and enhance how you live in the space. So, be intentional, have fun, and remember—there are no mistakes, only opportunities for creative problem-solving!
If you’re looking for expert advice or need personalized guidance from an architect, feel free to contact us.
How to design for small spaces without sacrificing style
Designing for small spaces may seem like a tricky puzzle, but with the right approach, it can actually be an incredibly fun and rewarding challenge. There’s something inherently creative about making the most of limited square footage without compromising on style or comfort. Whether it’s a cozy studio apartment, a tiny home, or just an awkwardly small room in your house, there are endless possibilities to turn that small space into a design gem. Let’s dive into how you can conquer small spaces with smart planning, savvy tricks, and a bit of design magic.
Maximizing space with multifunctional furniture
When you’re working with limited space, every piece of furniture has to earn its keep. Enter multifunctional furniture: the ultimate small space superhero. Think of items like a sofa bed, a fold-out dining table, or a coffee table that doubles as storage. These pieces do double duty, providing both function and style without cluttering up your precious square footage.
Modular furniture is another game-changer. Sectional sofas, for example, allow you to customize the shape to fit your layout perfectly. There are also designs where the ottoman has hidden storage, or the armrests turn into small shelves—clever little details that make a big difference in tight spaces.
Storage: get creative and go vertical
The key to making a small space feel livable (and not cramped) is smart storage. You’ll want to keep clutter to a minimum, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice the things you love. The secret? Go vertical.
Walls are your best friend in a small space. Open shelving, wall-mounted cabinets, or even pegboards can help keep things organized while freeing up floor space. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not install hanging planters, or even a drop-down desk that folds up when not in use? Vertical storage not only maximizes utility but also helps visually lift the room, making it feel taller and more open.
Hidden storage is also a game-changer. Think under-bed drawers, ottomans that open up, or even stairs with built-in storage (if you’re lucky enough to design a tiny home). Everything should have its place, but it doesn’t have to be out in the open.
Lighting: it’s all about layers
One of the biggest mistakes people make in small spaces is underestimating the power of good lighting. In small rooms, proper lighting can make the difference between cozy and cramped. The trick is to layer your lighting—don’t rely on a single overhead fixture to do all the work.
Start with ambient lighting, such as a ceiling fixture or recessed lighting, to brighten the entire space. Then, add task lighting where it’s needed—like a desk lamp for your workspace or pendant lights over the kitchen counter. Finally, throw in some accent lighting to highlight decor or architectural features. Floor lamps with slim profiles or wall-mounted sconces are great options when floor space is at a premium.
A layered lighting not only creates depth in small spaces but also enhances the room’s functionality, ensuring that no corner is left in the dark.
Trick the eye with mirrors and light colors
Here’s a little design trick that works every time: use mirrors and light colors to create the illusion of space. Mirrors reflect light and make a room feel larger than it is. A well-placed full-length mirror or a gallery of smaller mirrors can instantly double the visual size of a room.
Light, neutral colors on walls and furniture also make spaces feel bigger and airier. Think soft whites, light grays, or pastel tones. These colors reflect natural light, helping to visually expand the room. But don’t be afraid to add a splash of color with accessories—bold, contrasting colors can add personality without overwhelming the space. A pop of mustard yellow or deep blue in a pillow or throw blanket might be all you need to give a small room some serious style.
Open floor plans and zones
If you have the option, an open floor plan can work wonders in a small home or apartment. By removing unnecessary walls or barriers between rooms, you allow for a more seamless flow of space, making it feel much larger. However, open plans do come with their own challenges—particularly in how you define each zone within the space.
Creating zones helps ensure that different functions—living, dining, working—are still defined even without physical walls. You can achieve this through strategic furniture placement, area rugs, or even lighting. A well-placed bookshelf can act as a room divider, while still keeping the space open. Or, you can use a small console table behind a sofa to subtly separate the living room from the kitchen.
Open floor plans, when paired with zoning techniques, improve spatial perception and enhance functionality, particularly in smaller living environments.
Keep it simple and declutter
One of the best pieces of advice for designing small spaces? Less is more. The fewer items you have, the more breathing room your space will have—both visually and physically. Decluttering is essential. But that doesn’t mean you can’t have decor! It just means choosing pieces with intention. Rather than a gallery wall of 10 small paintings, opt for one large statement piece. The same goes for furniture—don’t overcrowd the room with oversized sofas or bulky armchairs. Stick to slim, streamlined pieces that leave some negative space around them.
Japanese design philosophy, particularly the “less is more” principle in wabi-sabi, emphasizes simplicity, focusing on the essential rather than the excessive. This approach is ideal for small spaces, where every piece of furniture and decor should serve a clear purpose.
Conclusion: small space, big style
In the end, designing for small spaces is about making smart choices and knowing how to play with scale, light, and layout. Multifunctional furniture, vertical storage, layered lighting, and light colors can all work together to create a space that feels spacious and stylish. The goal isn’t just to fit everything in—it’s to make sure that every element serves both a functional and aesthetic purpose, helping you make the most out of every square foot.
If you’re looking for expert advice or need personalized guidance from an architect, feel free to contact us.
Sources:
Elliot, A. J., & Maier, M. A. (2014). Color-in-Context Theory. Advances in Experimental Social Psychology, 53, 61-125.
Kwallek, N., Soon, K., & Lewis, C. M. (2012). Work week productivity, visual complexity, and individual environmental sensitivity in three offices differently colored. Color Research & Application, 38(2), 153-164.
Augustin, S., & Cass, J. (2020). The psychological benefits of blue in interior spaces. Journal of Environmental Psychology, 71, 101-119.
Gilchrist, A., & Jacob, A. (2019). Lighting and color constancy: Understanding color perception under varied lighting conditions. Visual Neuroscience, 36, e007.
The role of color in interior design
Color is one of the most influential and fundamental elements in interior design, shaping not only the aesthetic of a space but also the mood and behavior of its occupants. A well-chosen color palette can enhance the functionality and emotional tone of a room, making it feel calming, energizing, or even intimate. The psychology of color is deeply rooted in both cultural associations and individual perceptions, and designers must navigate these nuances to create balanced and harmonious spaces. This article explores the foundational principles of color theory in interior design, supported by research on the psychological impact of color.
The basics of color theory in interior design
At the heart of color usage in interior design is color theory, a framework that guides how different colors interact with each other. Based on the color wheel, colors are classified into primary (red, blue, yellow), secondary (green, orange, purple), and tertiary colors, which are created by mixing primary and secondary hues. Designers use this structure to create harmonious color schemes through various combinations such as complementary (colors opposite each other on the wheel) or analogous (colors adjacent to each other).
Warm colors—such as reds, yellows, and oranges—tend to evoke feelings of energy and warmth, while cool colors like blues, greens, and purples are associated with calmness and relaxation. Neutral colors, such as whites, grays, and beiges, often act as grounding elements in a palette, providing balance and contrast without overwhelming the space. Understanding these basic principles helps guide the design process when choosing the right colors for specific spaces or functions.
The psychological impact of color in interiors
The impact of color on mood and behavior is well-documented. Research has consistently shown that color affects not only our emotions but also our physical responses. According to a study published by Elliot and Maier (2014), the “color-in-context theory” suggests that color carries meaning in specific contexts, influencing how we perceive spaces and objects. For example, red is often associated with energy, passion, and even aggression, making it suitable for spaces that require stimulation, such as dining rooms or creative offices. In contrast, blue is linked to calmness and trust, which is why it is commonly used in bedrooms or healthcare settings where relaxation is important.
Further studies also support the idea that certain colors can enhance productivity and focus. A 2012 study by Kwallek et al. found that employees working in blue and green offices were more productive and experienced less stress compared to those in red or white offices. These findings suggest that designers should carefully consider how colors align with the intended use of a space to optimize both emotional and functional outcomes.
Choosing colors for different spaces
The selection of colors within an interior depends not only on psychological factors but also on the intended use of the space. For high-energy areas, such as kitchens or living rooms, vibrant, warm tones like yellow or orange can create an inviting and lively atmosphere. These colors stimulate interaction and communication, making them ideal for social spaces. However, overuse of these bright tones can lead to visual fatigue, so they are often balanced with more muted shades or neutrals.
In more private or restful areas, such as bedrooms or bathrooms, cool tones like light blue, soft green, or lavender are favored for their calming effects. These colors are known to reduce stress and promote relaxation, contributing to a sense of tranquility. A study by Augustin and Cass (2020) highlights how blue, in particular, lowers heart rates and reduces blood pressure, making it ideal for spaces designed for rest.
Neutral colors serve as a backdrop in many interior designs, providing versatility and allowing for easy adaptation to changing trends or personal preferences. Shades of gray, beige, or off-white offer a timeless, understated elegance, and are often used in minimalist designs or spaces where the goal is to emphasize other design elements, such as furniture or artwork.
Light and color perception
An important aspect often overlooked in color selection is the influence of lighting on how colors are perceived. Natural light and artificial lighting can dramatically change the appearance of a color within a space. Sunlight tends to make colors appear more vibrant, while artificial lighting can either warm or cool a color depending on the temperature of the bulbs used. Research by Gilchrist and Jacob (2019) in their study on “color constancy” emphasizes that human perception of color changes under different lighting conditions, which is why designers often test color samples under varying light sources before finalizing a palette.
In rooms with ample natural light, bold and vibrant colors can be used without overwhelming the space. In contrast, darker or dimly lit rooms benefit from lighter shades or reflective finishes that enhance brightness. A well-lit space allows colors to breathe and contributes to the overall atmosphere of the room.
Creating harmony through color balance
Achieving color harmony in a space involves more than simply picking favorite colors—it requires balancing hues to create a cohesive and visually appealing environment. Designers often rely on the 60-30-10 rule, which suggests that 60% of a room’s color scheme should be a dominant color, 30% a secondary color, and 10% an accent color. This proportion creates balance and visual interest without overwhelming the senses. For example, a living room might feature soft gray walls (60%), navy blue furniture (30%), and gold or brass accents (10%).
Texture and finish also play a role in how colors are perceived. Matte surfaces absorb light, making colors appear richer and deeper, while glossy finishes reflect light, giving a brighter, more luminous effect. By combining different textures, designers can add depth and dimension to a room’s color scheme.
Conclusion: think twice!
Color is a powerful tool in interior design, capable of shaping not just the aesthetic of a space, but also the mood and behavior of its inhabitants. From the energizing effect of warm hues to the calming presence of cool tones, the strategic use of color can transform a room into a place of relaxation, productivity, or socialization. As research continues to reveal the profound psychological effects of color, designers must stay attuned to how different hues influence both perception and emotion, ensuring their palettes align with the intended function of each space.
If you’re looking for expert advice or need personalized guidance from an architect, feel free to contact us.
Sources:
Elliot, A. J., & Maier, M. A. (2014). Color-in-Context Theory. Advances in Experimental Social Psychology, 53, 61-125.
Kwallek, N., Soon, K., & Lewis, C. M. (2012). Work week productivity, visual complexity, and individual environmental sensitivity in three offices differently colored. Color Research & Application, 38(2), 153-164.
Augustin, S., & Cass, J. (2020). The psychological benefits of blue in interior spaces. Journal of Environmental Psychology, 71, 101-119.
Gilchrist, A., & Jacob, A. (2019). Lighting and color constancy: Understanding color perception under varied lighting conditions. Visual Neuroscience, 36, e007.
The role of materials in interior design
In interior design, materials play a fundamental role in shaping the atmosphere and functionality of a space. While color and form often receive much of the attention, the choice of materials can significantly alter the tactile experience and overall perception of a room. From the warmth of natural wood to the sleekness of metal and the transparency of glass, each material brings with it a set of qualities that influence not only the aesthetic but also the sensory dynamics of an interior. Understanding how to effectively use and combine these materials is a key skill for any interior designer.
Wood: warmth and versatility
Wood remains one of the most versatile and timeless materials in interior design. Its natural grains, warm tones, and ability to fit within a wide variety of design styles—from rustic and traditional to modern and minimalist—make it indispensable. The texture and feel of wood create a sense of warmth and comfort, making spaces feel more inviting. Hardwoods like oak and walnut, known for their durability and rich hues, are often used in flooring, furniture, and cabinetry. Softer woods like pine and cedar, with their lighter tones and distinctive grains, lend themselves well to spaces that require a more casual or rustic atmosphere. But wood is not just aesthetically pleasing; its natural insulation properties also make it functional in regulating room temperature and acoustics.
Metal: structure and modernity
Metal, by contrast, brings a sense of structure and modernity to a space. The cold, sleek finish of metals like stainless steel, aluminum, or brass provides a counterbalance to softer materials like wood or fabric. In contemporary or industrial design, metal elements often serve as focal points—whether through exposed beams, staircases, or furniture accents. The use of brushed metals, with their muted shine, can offer a subtler approach to incorporating metal into a space, allowing it to contribute without overpowering. However, the challenge with metal lies in achieving balance. Overuse can lead to a space feeling too sterile or harsh, which is why combining it with materials like wood or fabric is often recommended to soften the overall effect.
Glass: transparency and lightness
Glass, meanwhile, offers both transparency and lightness, playing a crucial role in maximizing natural light and enhancing the perception of space. Used in windows, partitions, or even flooring, glass helps to create a seamless flow between different areas of a home. It can open up a space visually, making it appear larger and airier. Frosted or tinted glass, which provides privacy without sacrificing the benefits of natural light, is often employed in areas like bathrooms or office spaces. Designers also use glass to introduce reflective surfaces, which can amplify light and add a sense of depth to a room. However, as with metal, careful consideration must be given to how glass interacts with other materials. Too much glass can leave a space feeling cold or impersonal, so it is often paired with materials that provide warmth and texture.
Combining materials for balance
The intersection of these materials often leads to some of the most compelling designs. Wood and metal, for example, can be combined to create a harmonious contrast between warmth and coolness. A wooden dining table with metal legs blends rustic charm with modern elegance. Similarly, glass and metal pairings, such as glass tabletops with stainless steel frames, give off a minimalist, sleek vibe, ideal for modern homes or office environments. The key lies in proportion and context—understanding the material’s inherent qualities and balancing them appropriately within the larger design scheme.
Sustainability and durability in material selection
Beyond their visual and tactile properties, the sustainability and durability of materials are becoming increasingly important in modern design practices. Designers are now more aware of the environmental impact of their material choices. Responsibly sourced wood, recycled metal, and energy-efficient glass are not only desirable from an ecological perspective but also resonate with clients who prioritize sustainability. The longevity of these materials further justifies their use; durable materials reduce the need for frequent replacements and renovations, ultimately leading to a more sustainable design process.
Conclusion: shaping spaces with materials
Materials are the building blocks of any interior space. Whether through the organic warmth of wood, the cool precision of metal, or the clarity and openness of glass, these elements provide designers with the tools to shape both the form and feel of a room. The art lies in their combination—in knowing when to highlight a material’s natural characteristics and when to use them in balance with one another. A well-designed space is not just about how it looks, but how it feels to inhabit, and the choice of materials is central to that experience.
If you’re looking for expert advice or need personalized guidance from an architect, feel free to contact us.
