Create drama and personality

“Wallpaper has observed tradition for too long and people are starting to acknowledge its potential in their homes,” says Catherine Jacob, head of design at Murals Wallpaper, which offers a range of designs and can create bespoke wall murals from images, designs or photographs supplied by customers.

“Platforms such as Pinterest and Instagram inspire people and help empower them to experiment, while the rise in personalisation means people are enjoying creating unique designs for their walls.

“Generally, patterns are becoming more daring, with largescale dark florals, jungle prints and bright, coloured geometrics enlivening the landscape of walls once dominated by a conventional neutral palette of paint.”

For 2018, she predicts big images or repeat patterns will offer a punchy alternative to the small, ditsy patterns of yesteryear.

“Millennial pink reigns as the new black and has become a staple base colour, but lilac tones are gaining popularity,” Jacob adds.

“Faux texture wallpapers are recognised as a brilliant way to change the character of a space, with brick for a rustic look or concrete for a chic industrial feel, or even wool for softer luxury.

“The craft/handmade movement is inspiring design, so look out for more free-flowing painterly styles, merging the look of artisan skills with digital-age technology.”

One way to enhance a setting and ensure a beautiful wall covering is the focus of a room, is to pick out key colours from the design and repeat them in plain fabrics and painted woodwork.