Walls set the stage for the entire interior experience. While paint creates a clean backdrop, luxury design often calls for more depth, tactility, and visual richness. That’s where curated wall coverings come in—from textured grasscloth to hand-painted panels, the right selection elevates a space from simple to sophisticated.
At Kern & Co., wall coverings are a key part of our layered approach to interior design. They offer an opportunity to personalize mood, scale, and tone with artful, architectural intent.
Texture: A Sensory Foundation
Texture is the first quality we perceive, even subconsciously. It influences how a space feels—soft, structured, relaxed, or refined.
- Grasscloth: Woven fibers add organic warmth and a matte surface ideal for coastal or transitional interiors.
- Silk or linen wallpapers: Provide quiet luster and elegance in formal dining or bedroom spaces.
- Flocked or embossed patterns: Introduce a tactile element that adds drama and dimension.
In luxury homes, texture grounds the design in materiality and invites a closer look.
Pattern: Movement and Mood
Pattern can transform a room’s energy. Whether subtle or bold, it helps shape rhythm and visual interest.
- Tonal geometric patterns: Add modern structure without overpowering a room.
- Nature-inspired motifs: Bring softness and serenity, perfect for spas or bedrooms.
- Murals or scenic prints: Turn walls into immersive experiences, especially in entryways or powder rooms.
We use pattern to direct attention, create focal points, and build narrative within the home. A well-placed wall paper accent can add both artistry and architectural intent.
Material: From Artisan to Architectural
The choice of material defines not just the look, but also the longevity and impact of the wall covering.
- Hand-painted panels: One-of-a-kind works of art that add cultural and visual depth.
- Metallic-infused coverings: Catch the light and add subtle shimmer—ideal for evening spaces.
- Natural fiber wallpapers: Sustainable, breathable, and rich in texture.
Each material tells a story—of origin, craft, and refinement. At Kern & Co., we prioritize selections that balance beauty with performance.
Placement & Pairing Strategies
Wall coverings don’t have to go everywhere to make a statement.
- Accent walls: In bedrooms, dining rooms, or behind bookshelves.
- Full-room applications: For powder baths, studies, or formal spaces.
- Panel insets: In wainscoting or millwork to highlight craftsmanship.
For example, a powder room with tile accent wall can gain even more depth with wallpapered ceilings or metallic backing. We often pair textured wall coverings with custom cabinetry, soft furnishings, and layered lighting for a fully immersive effect.
For clients exploring beige wall living room ideas, a lightly patterned or textured wall covering in similar tones can elevate a neutral palette without introducing visual noise.
Layered Luxury from the Walls Out
Wall coverings are a signature of refined interiors. They provide an elegant foundation for everything that follows—art, furniture, lighting, and life. When selected with care, they create not just a style, but a feeling.
At Kern & Co., we help clients select coverings that speak to their vision and elevate their home’s identity—one wall at a time.
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