When it comes to transforming a room's ambiance, choosing the right wall covering is a critical decision. Among the most popular options are wallpaper and murals, each offering unique aesthetic and functional benefits. As a professional in the field - I'm here to guide you through the essential differences, advantages, and considerations for using wallpaper and murals in your home or projects.

What is Wallpaper?

Wallpaper is a decorative material made of a non-woven substrate, vinyl, natural fibres, or other substrates that's applied to walls to add colour, pattern, or texture. It’s traditionally available in rolls and can feature a vast array of designs—from subtle textures to bold patterns.

Key Characteristics of Wallpaper:

• Design Diversity: From florals and geometric patterns to textured finishes, wallpaper offers a broad spectrum of styles as seen in the vast selection from the Eijffinger brand.
• Installation: Involves pasting the wallpaper directly onto the wall using adhesive.
• Removability: Depending on the type, wallpaper can be removable or not so easy to remove, so yet sound advice on which ones are easily strippable.

What is a Mural?

A mural is a large-scale artwork or image that covers one or more walls, often creating a statement piece within a space. Murals are printed on a wallpaper substrate for easy installation.

Key Characteristics of Murals:

• Focal Point: Murals are designed to be eye-catching. They often depict scenic landscapes, abstract art, or over-sized florals.
• Customization: Murals can be scaled up or down to suit any size wall, or created to suit a specific theme or personal preference.
• Non-Repeating Design: Unlike patterned wallpaper, a mural does not feature a repeating print, but presents a full-size "picture".

The Major Differences Between Wallpaper and Murals

Pros and Cons of Wallpaper

Pros:

• Variety & Versatility: With endless patterns, textures, and colours, wallpaper suits all design styles - from modern minimalism to vintage charm.
• Ease of Installation & Removal: Modern non-woven wallpapers make projects easier, and are removable without damaging the wall.
• Concealing Imperfections: Textured or patterned wallpaper can hide minor wall flaws effectively.

Cons:

• Temporary Durability: Some wallpapers, especially cheaper vinyl types, may peel or fade over time.
• Potential Damage: Removal can sometimes damage the paint or drywall, especially if not designed for easy removal.
• Cost & Maintenance: High-end wallpapers can be pricey, and cleaning depends on fabric or vinyl content.

Pros and Cons of Murals

Pros:

• Bold Statement: Murals create dramatic focal points, transforming a plain wall into a work of art.
• Personalized Design: Custom murals reflect your personal style, interests, or branding in commercial spaces.
• Enhances Space Perception: Scenic murals can make rooms feel larger or more immersive.

Cons:

• Measuring: Walls are rarely perfectly square so require careful measuring to avoid mistakes.
• Cost: Custom murals, can be more costly than wallpaper.
• Skill Required: DIY attempts may not turn out as envisioned without strong skills, so a professional installer is recommended.

How to Use Wallpaper and Murals in Interior Design

Wallpaper:

• Accent Walls: A popular method is to use wallpaper on a single wall to add interest without overwhelming the space.
• Full Room Coverage: For bold statements or creating themed rooms, wallpaper can wrap all four walls.
• Textured or Embossed Wallpaper: Adds dimension and tactile richness, ideal for modern or eclectic designs.

Murals:

• Focal Walls: Use a mural behind a bed, sofa, or main seating area to draw attention.
• Artistic Expression: Murals work well in creative spaces, children’s rooms, or to depict scenic landscapes or cityscapes as seen in the Into the Light collection.
• Commercial & Hospitality Spaces: Murals can convey branding, local culture, or ambiance effectively.

Additional Tips for Making Your Choice between Wallpaper and Murals:

1.           Room Function & Atmosphere:

Consider the purpose of the space. Bedrooms and living rooms benefit from warm, inviting wallpaper or calming murals, while kitchens and bathrooms need moisture-resistant options. Murals are perfect for making a statement in a dining room or entryway, while wallpaper can add texture and pattern throughout the space.

2.           Style & Aesthetic Goals:

Your overall interior style plays a role. Minimalist spaces may benefit from subtle textured wallpaper, while eclectic or artistic spaces can accommodate a vibrant mural. Think about whether you want to create a subtle background or a visual centrepiece.

3.           Wall Condition & Surface:

If your walls have small imperfections, textured embossed vinyl wallpaper or murals as seen in the JV brand can be advantageous. For walls with significant damage, repairing before applying wallpaper or murals is essential.

4.           Budget & Long-term Planning:

Wallpapers vary in cost, with high-quality options being pricier. Murals are not bulk-printed but printed individually, so are more costly than wallpaper in general. Consider not just the initial cost but also the potential expense of removal or redecoration in the future.

5.           Maintenance & Longevity:

Will the wall covering endure daily wear and tear? Vinyl wallpaper is durable and easy to clean, whereas non-woven qualities or natural fibres are not as durable. Plan accordingly for spaces prone to moisture or high traffic.

Final Thoughts: Which One Is Right for You?

Choosing between wallpaper and murals ultimately depends on your design vision, budget, and the personality of your space. If you desire versatility, pattern, and texture, wallpaper is an excellent choice. If you want to infuse your home with personality or create a dramatic focal point, murals are unmatched in their visual impact.

Remember, these elements are not mutually exclusive. Many interior designers blend both, using wallpaper for textured backgrounds and murals for standout features, creating layered, dynamic interiors.

Your Next Step

Consider your space's purpose, your style and your budget. Browse social media platforms or websites for ideas, sample colour palettes, and even consult with professionals if you're unsure about where to start and how to go about selecting wallpaper or murals. Most importantly, select a wallcovering that resonates with your personality and enhances your home's vibe.

 Whichever option you choose, remember that your walls are a canvas, an opportunity to reflect your style and create an environment that feels truly yours. 

If you need some advice or inspiration, visit our website at https://dreamweaverstudios.co.za/ or pop into our Kramerville Johannesburg showroom and explore our diverse collection of luxury wallcoverings.