Upholstered Walls Explained by Absolute Upholstery

Interior designers are ecstatic about the potential to bring back traditional design principles like upholstered walls as homeowners reject the idea of sharp modern in favour of comfort and warmth. There have been upholstered walls for millennia. But never before have they seemed as timely as they do now. We look to upholstered walls to add texture, warmth, and, most importantly, quietness as we spend more time in our homes. Let’s look into upholstered walls in general and how our team at Absolute Upholstery can make your house more comfortable.

What Exactly Are Upholstered Walls?

Upholstered walls are decorative wall coverings that cover the walls with fabrics and battings to give them a warm, textured, and calming appearance. The practice of upholstering walls is quite sophisticated and has been practised for many years. Professionals frequently spend years honing their wall upholstery skills. Tacking and adhesive are the two main techniques for upholstering walls. When we imagine upholstered walls, we typically visualise the tacking method result. This method involves adding a layer of fluffy batting to the walls, framing them with tacking strips, stretching the fabric over them, and tacking it into the strips.

In the adhesive approach, the fabric is glued to the wall, much like how we install wallpapers. This method uses no batting, involves less preparation, and costs less. The adhesive upholstery technique does not help sound deadening but offers texture and colour.

History of Upholstered Walls

The use of upholstered walls dates back to the Middle Ages when members of the royal aristocracy looked for a solution to keep draughty stone castles warm in the winter. Although adding rugs was successful, lining the walls with fabric was even more effective and showcased wealth and elegance. The value of mediaeval wall upholsterers increased to the point where a trade guild was formed. In 1465, during the reign of Edward IV, the Worshipful Company of Upholders (an early term for upholsterers) became one of the first design trade guilds in history. They were in charge of upholding the standards still followed in the upholstery industry today.

Upholstered Walls vs. Wallpaper

Upholstered walls, at first glance, especially in photos, resemble various types of wallpaper. While both wall coverings bring colour and texture, upholstered walls also give padding, giving the room a broader appearance and a quieter atmosphere. Although rooms with wallpaper and upholstery may appear similar, they will feel very different and have various tonal qualities.

Why Are Upholstered Walls Back in Style?

While some might think the upholstered walls trend of the 2020s is new, textile wall coverings have never been out of style. Upholstered walls have been seen as a luxury throughout the history of interior design, from royal estates to the homes of celebrities. Upholstered walls are becoming simpler and less expensive to install and maintain thanks to newly designed performance fabrics, making them an affordable addition for many homes wishing to renovate.

Upholstered walls scream maximalism, old-world elegance, and extravagant grandeur, yet they can fit in any home with the right care. With countless fabric options, upholstered walls may effortlessly match any interior design style, from traditional to modern. So, if you want to make a quieter office or a cosier bedroom, Absolute Upholstery can install high-quality upholstered walls following your design preferences.

With over 100 years of combined experience in our workroom, we can take on all kinds of upholstery work, from small repairs to large commercial fit-outs. Call us at (02) 9572 9662 for an appointment.

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