3D DESIGNS IN HOME DECOR
Technology has completely transformed the way we live and work. It is also changing the face of home decor. Today, 3D designs are seeping into residential design trends — from the wallcoverings we use around us to the fabric we feature on our accessories, to even the basic materials we use in our utilitarian spaces. These three-dimensional accents are what we incorporate into our homes and condos to really personalize them.
One of the first areas in which three-dimensional patterns started popping up was in wallpapers. While true 3D papers (where you use so-called 3D glasses to see the space in three dimensions) are still a specialty item, high- to mid-end wallpaper companies have created unique motifs that appear three-dimensional.
“I have a lot of companies that take geometric patterns and give them the illusion of 3D effects; the pattern appears to be jumping off the wall but it's all in the design,” said Maria Raco, director of the showroom for Newwall. “They use a lot of it for commercial and hospitality environments — board rooms and lobby areas: spaces (in which) you can step back and get the effect as opposed to being in a small powder room enclosed by four walls.
“There are certain designs where you need to be able to step back, so in a residential setting, these 3D prints are for feature walls in front entrances, bedrooms and dining rooms.”
Tiles in kitchens and bathrooms are also an area where 3D designs can be used, specifically on the backsplash, where they can truly become the centrepiece of the space.
“There are a lot of three-dimensional tiles out there,” said Kristina Panzera, a senior buyer with Ciot. “You can really bring the attention to that area with 3D effects. It's a really nice decorative element, particularly when you use a toneon-tone product.”
One of the most popular 3D applications in residential design is in artwork. Sophie Marcoux is the founder, owner and designer behind Sofs Designs, where she creates do-it-yourself 3D paper puzzles that anyone can make with scissors and glue.
“The art form is sometimes called 3D papercraft or low-poly paper sculptures, and it is starting to pop up everywhere,” she said. “When I started about six years ago, there were just a few designers making the patterns, but now you can find more and more, which is great because it's such a fun way to decorate. It is also super eco-friendly.”
Evolving technology has continued to usher in new ways of incorporating personalized art into homes, and that includes three-dimensional pieces that are one-ofa-kind and whimsical.
“I think that with the advancement of technology, such as home 3D printers and laser cutters, many more people have the ability to be creative and bring their amazing ideas to life. This makes for a greater range of decor elements and is also much more attainable in terms of cost,” Marcoux said. “If we look back maybe five to 10 years, there is no way someone could spend around $100 and have an eight-foot polar bear standing in their living room!”
Why has 3D design and art become so popular? A big reason, Marcoux said, is that people find such realistic three-dimensional shapes soothing.
“I once had a conversation with a resident psychologist that was visiting from Brazil on the impact of 3D imagery, and he explained that 3D shapes are perceived by the brain as being `real' and can evoke a whole range of emotions,” she said. “Three-d paper decor is so awesome (because) it brings real emotion.”
I once had a conversation with a psychologist ... and he explained that 3D shapes are perceived by the brain as being `real' and can evoke a whole range of emotions.