(ARA) - Do-it-yourself decorators are discovering what A-list interior designers have known for years: Naturally textured wallpapers do much more than add instant glamour. They hide problem walls, absorb noise, and add depth and dimension like no other wall surface.
And today's textured papers -- like sea grass, bamboo, grasscloth, silk, burlap and jute -- are no longer priced just for the jet set. In fact, natural wallpaper's newfound affordability and technological advances make it a great value, since it stays beautiful for decades. "We've used natural textures in several of the homes we've built and remodeled," says Liz Brunwin, design producer for ABC-TV's Extreme Makeover: Home Edition. "It is environmentally friendly and brings a bit of nature indoors, plus it adds serenity -- yet is durable enough -- for families with several people living in the house."
Natural wallpapers are also capable chameleons, looking splendid with family heirlooms and flea market finds in a cottage or country décor; rustically exotic in a tropical room; sleek and modern in a contemporary setting; or time-honored in a classically traditional home.
The stunning Raffia Weave Texture from Waverly's new Natural Fibers collection, available in colors from charcoal to crimson, is a highly textured natural grasscloth able to turn any room from weak to wow. As a frame enhances a painting, this collection of basket weaves, natural grasses, strings and silks creates dimension and interest while remaining subtle and serene.
This is not to say that all natural wallpapers are timid wallflowers. Ansai Sisal and Fengshan Weave, two touchable, textured wallpapers chosen for episodes of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, come in confident colors like red, onyx, and a stunning plum that is as radiant as it is regal. These wallpapers appear in Gramercy's Naturals II collection, whose breathtaking bamboo and stylish string wallpapers include an ultra-soft chenille-like texture, and a grasscloth whose subtle leaf motif dazzles in the background.
As for decorating with natural wallpapers, much of natural wallpaper's allure is its versatility. "Grasscloth gives walls a look and feel that paint simply can't provide," says Short Hills, New Jersey-based interior designer Kristin Casey of KC Interiors. "Fine weaves can be used more formally and big chunky weaves are ideal for more casual rooms. I've used grasscloth in small cozy libraries and large airy sunrooms, and am now using it in bathrooms, where it gives much-needed warmth against tile, glass and stone."
According to Shih-ma Sun, design director for Gramercy, natural wallpaper's newfound popularity is partially in response to the growing presence of electronics in the home. "Technology has spilled into every room in the house, and naturally tactile wallpapers help soften their presence," she explains. She adds that while many natural wallpapers are works of art on their own, grasses, weaves and strings are especially beautiful backdrops for artwork and family photographs. Natural wallpapers are also easier for do-it-yourself decorators to find than ever before. Both Waverly's Natural Fibers and Gramercy's Naturals II collections are online at www.americanblinds.com/waverly where large, color-true photos of each pattern make browsing easy. Once you've made your decision, your selection is guaranteed to be in-stock and shipped fast and free.
For more information about these natural wallpapers, or to place an order, visit American Blinds, Wallpaper & More online at www.americanblinds.com/waverly or talk to a free wallpaper personal shopper at (800) 921-1686.
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