How to choose a wall mural: The ultimate guide

 

If you've ever pondered the question of how to choose a wall mural, you're not alone. Choosing a wall mural may seem daunting, given the myriad of options available. 

This article aims to simplify the selection process for you. We'll discuss how to choose the ideal wall mural for your room based on various considerations, including the theme and ambiance that you want to achieve, the size of your room, the features of the wall mural, and the existing characteristics of your space— making sure that everything is considered in your selection process.

 

How to choose a wall mural based on a theme

In the realm of interior design, themes or motifs serve as guiding principles, harmonizing every element within a space for an intentional appearance. These themes ensure that your décor feels interconnected and tells a story. Whether you're aiming for the rustic charm of a countryside cottage or the sleek allure of contemporary design, selecting a mural aligned with it can be the touch that ties everything together.

 

Scandinavian

 

 

Scandinavian design blends functionality with natural beauty. Think murals showcasing snowy landscapes, minimalistic botanical art, forest silhouettes, or neutral geometric patterns. The palette often includes cool blues, soft grays, and stark whites to create a serene, cozy environment.

 

Minimalist

 

 

Minimalism thrives on simplicity and function. Wall murals that align with this theme often boast subtle gradients, simple line drawings, monochromatic landscapes, or Zen-inspired natural elements. Less is more, with a focus on calm and clarity.

 

Contemporary

 

Contemporary design champions the "here and now," emphasizing clean lines and a fresh feel. Wall murals that suit this motif often lean towards abstract forms, geometric patterns, or even sleek cityscapes or cities and places. Think bold brush strokes, fluid designs, and a blend of muted tones with occasional pops of color.

 

Rustic

 

Rustic themes invoke a sense of comfort reminiscent of the countryside and nature. Ideal wall murals for this motif include a wooden look, rolling farmlands, vintage botanical prints, or even scenes from a cozy cabin. The key is warmth, earthy colors, and a touch of nostalgia.

 

Industrial

 

Industrial design finds beauty in the unfinished and raw. Wall murals that complement this theme range from exposed brick walls, vintage blueprints, and loft-style windows to metallic elements or urban landscapes. It's about celebrating structural elements and a bygone industrial era.

 

Coastal

 

Evoking feelings of a breezy shoreline, the coastal theme is about relaxation. Suitable mural designs include beach scenes, nautical maps, underwater locations, marine life illustrations, and soft watercolor seascapes. Hues of blue, sandy beige, and soft pastels are often dominant.

 

Vintage

 

Vintage design is a throwback to past eras, offering timeless beauty. Murals for this theme can range from sepia-toned photographs, Art Deco patterns, and classic film and TV posters to retro advertisements. It's a nod to the classics, embracing nostalgia.

The themes we've discussed are among the most cherished and universally admired. While there are countless other motifs to explore, these encapsulate a range of styles that resonate with many. No matter which theme speaks to your soul, Photowall brings an abundance of wall mural options to the table, ensuring that every aesthetic desire is met with perfection.

 

How to choose a wall mural based on a desired ambiance

 

Colors, patterns, and scenes painted across your walls can evoke specific emotions, set moods, and create atmospheres. Thus, your mural choice becomes quintessential when you wish to stir a certain sentiment or kindle a specific vibe in a room. In this section, we'll guide you on choosing murals that align perfectly with the ambiance you aspire to craft.

 

Relaxing

 

Opt for wall murals that induce serenity and calm. Think soft blue, green, and muted earth tones. Scenes of tranquil lakes, quiet nature-inspired sceneries, or distant mountains under a pastel sky can be soothing to the soul. Designs with gentle gradients or soft geometric patterns can also be relaxing.

 

Cozy

 

For a cozy atmosphere, murals depicting intimate spaces, soft textures, or warm landscapes are ideal. Scenes of snow-covered cottages, crackling fireplaces, or autumnal forests can make spaces feel snug. Warm colors like deep red, orange, and brown are beneficial.

 

Whimsical

 

Unleash your playful side with murals featuring fantastical landscapes, quirky patterns, or even fairy-tale characters. Think floating islands, enchanted forests, or a sky full of hot air balloons. Bright, multi-colored designs paired with imaginative designs make for a whimsical feel.

 

Romantic

 

Imbue your room with romance using murals of serene sunrises and sunsets, moonlit cityscapes, or even a garden full of blooming roses. Soft pink, deep, or twilight purple, combined with scenes that evoke passion, work wonders.

 

Energizing

 

Opt for murals with bold patterns, vivid colors, and dynamic scenes to invigorate and energize a space. Jungles, radiant yellow against cityscapes, or abstract designs can awaken the senses.

 

Luxurious

 

Lavish your space with opulence using murals showcasing regal patterns, metallic accents, or grand architecture. Think marble patterns, gilded designs, or sprawling chateaus. Deep purple, gold, and black exude luxury.

 

Mystical

 

 

For a mystical aura, murals featuring enchanted woods, ethereal beings, or cosmic designs can be chosen. The allure of deep blue, emerald green, and cosmic purple paired with scenes from unknown realms make the space feel otherworldly.

 

Inspirational

 

 

Typography wall murals that feature inspiring quotes, wide open landscapes, soaring birds, or even abstract designs that signify breaking boundaries can ignite motivation and inspiration.

Ultimately, the mural you choose becomes a silent storyteller of the room, narrating tales of the ambiance you've desired to create. Whether it's a whisper of relaxation or a shout of inspiration, Photowall has the right wall mural that will echo it perfectly in your room.

 

How to choose a wall mural based on the room's size

Every room, regardless of its size, deserves to be adorned with beauty and personality. However, the dimensions of a room can greatly influence the type of mural that complements it best. In this section, we delve into how different murals can be used to either accentuate or counteract the natural dimensions of a room, creating visual harmony and sometimes even optical illusions.

 

1. Small rooms  

For compact spaces, opting for murals with light colors and open designs is ideal. Sceneries like vast skies, serene beaches, or distant horizons can make a small room feel more expansive. Patterns that move the eye upward or outward can also create a sense of spaciousness. Additionally, minimalistic designs with fewer details can prevent the room from feeling cramped.

 

2. Narrow rooms

In a narrow room, the goal is often to widen the appearance. Horizontal patterns or landscapes can help achieve this. Murals depicting fields, seas, or any scenery with a wide horizon can balance out the elongated feel. Light colors, particularly on the longer walls, can also help expand the room's perceived width.

 

3. Low-ceiling rooms

Rooms with low ceilings can benefit from murals that draw the eyes upward. Think of vertical patterns, tall trees, skyscrapers, or clouds. Opting for murals that depict a sense of height can give the illusion of a raised ceiling, making the space feel airier.

Whether you aim to make a room feel broader, taller, or more spacious, the right design can accomplish that. With Photowall's diverse collection, you will find wall murals expertly crafted to address these size-centric goals, ensuring every room feels just right.

 

How to choose a wall mural based on the user-friendliness of features

 

Selecting the perfect design for a wall mural is just one part of the equation; the practicality of its features is equally crucial. In this section, we’ll guide you on prioritizing murals beautifying your space and offering user-friendly features that simplify your interior decorating journey.

 

Is it easy to install?

 

The installation process can make or break your mural experience. Opt for murals designed for self-application. Photowall emerges as a top pick for those seeking simplicity in installation. They offer non-woven wallpapers that ensure a mess-free application and boast peel-and-stick varieties for a swift and uncomplicated setup. To further ease the process, Photowall thoughtfully arranges your wallpaper order into consecutively labeled segments, making assembly a breeze. To assist you further, they provide a comprehensive guide on the installation process, which you can access here: how to install wall mural

 

Is it easy to clean?

 

 

Daily life can leave its mark on our walls from accidental spills, handprints, or dust accumulation. Look for murals that specifically mention their ease of cleaning. Photowall’s non-woven wallpapers are often favored because they can be easily cleaned with a damp cloth. When you choose Photowall's premium wallpapers, you benefit from their compatibility with cleaning agents. Additionally, their peel-and-stick variants are easily wipeable and resist common surface blemishes. Both their non-woven and peel-and-stick collections guarantee ease of upkeep, keeping your space pristine. To dive deeper into the care and cleaning of wallpapers, visit here: how to clean wall murals

 

Is it easy to calculate?

 

 

Determining the right amount of wallpaper required can be challenging and intricate. It's crucial to consider roll sizes, match pattern repeats, and gauge the necessary strips. Any oversight can result in a surplus or insufficient wallpaper, causing waste or added expenses. Opting for wallpaper that simplifies this calculation process is crucial for hassle-free decoration. Fortunately, Photowall has streamlined this aspect. Input your wall measurements, select your desired pattern, and adjust your motif. Photowall crafts a tailor-made wallpaper for your specific space. For insights on wallpaper quantity estimations, explore here: how much wall mural do I need

 

Is it easy to remove?

 

 

Whether you love changing up the décor frequently or residing in a rented space, the ease of mural removal is a significant consideration. Photowall non-woven wallpapers employ a 'paste-the-wall' method, ensuring ease during stripping. This type of wallpaper can be effortlessly peeled off, leaving the wall unharmed. Additionally, Photowall’s peel-and-stick options present a hassle-free removal experience. These variants can be removed without any sticky residue, making them perfect for those keen on regularly updating their interiors. For detailed steps on wallpaper removal, delve into this guide: how to remove wall murals

 

How to choose a wall mural based on quality

 

 

Quality is paramount when selecting a wall mural. It determines how well the mural stands up to everyday wear and tear, its safety features, and its longevity. Here are some essential quality considerations:

•  Scrape-resistant: In high-traffic areas or places prone to activity, durability is key. A wall mural that resists scrapes ensures the design remains impeccable despite minor accidents. Photowall's premium non-woven wall murals champion this quality, epitomizing resilience without sacrificing visual appeal.

•  Wipeable: Quality murals should be low maintenance. Whether an accidental spill or a curious handprint, a wipeable surface ensures your mural stays pristine with minimal effort. With Photowall’s standard non-woven wall murals, a simple wipe with a damp cloth suffices, and their peel-and-stick variants offer the same convenience.

•  Suitable for cleaning products: Durability extends to how a mural interacts with cleaning agents. A high-quality mural allows for thorough cleaning without its design getting compromised. Photowall’s premium non-woven wall murals are designed to withstand standard cleaning products, ensuring longevity with uncompromised aesthetics.

•  Fire-rated: Quality is as much about safety as it is about aesthetics. Fire-rated murals minimize risks, having been tested for ignition resistance and containment of fire spread. Photowall takes safety seriously, offering both standard and premium non-woven fire-rated wall murals.

•  UV Resistant: Quality murals can maintain their vibrancy over the years. With resistance to fading from sunlight, you can be assured that the mural’s colors will remain vivid, even in rooms bathed in sunlight. Photowall's commitment to quality ensures their standard and premium non-woven wall murals are UV-resistant.

With the right quality markers, your mural won't just be a visual treat but a lasting piece of art. Let's move on to the factors concerning the features of your room, so you can choose a wall mural that complements them.

How to choose a wall mural based on the room's existing features

 

 

Selecting a wall mural is also about ensuring it complements the room's existing features. This section will guide you on how to choose murals that harmonize with the architectural elements, materials, and furniture in your room.

 

Architectural elements

Every room has unique architectural characteristics, whether crown moldings, exposed beams, arched doorways, or built-in shelves. It's essential to understand how a mural can either accentuate or diminish these features:

•  Crown molding: If your room has detailed crown molding, you might opt for simpler murals that don't compete with the intricate designs of the molding. Lighter backgrounds with subtle patterns can let the molding be the room's star.

•  Exposed beams: Rooms with exposed beams often exude a rustic or industrial charm. Murals with landscapes, especially forest scenes or vintage cityscapes, can pair well with this aesthetic. Alternatively, a mural with a sky or cloud theme can give the illusion of depth above the beams.

•  Built-in shelves: If a wall with built-in shelves is where you're considering placing your mural, remember that a large part might be obscured. Opt for designs where the main subject isn't likely hidden behind books or decor. Gradual patterns or color gradients can work well.

•  Arched doorways or windows: For rooms with arched architectural features, selecting murals incorporating arch-like curves or a focal point sitting at the arch's apex can create a harmonious look.

 

Materials

 

 

The materials used in your room, such as hardwood, brick, or stone & rocks, play a role in the ambiance. Ensure your mural complements these materials. For example:

•  Hardwood floors: Consider earthy or warm-toned murals if your room boasts rich wooden floors. Landscapes with forests or vintage patterns can also elevate the wooden charm.

•  Brick walls: Exposed brick walls have an industrial charm. Murals with metallic textures or graffiti can augment the urban vibe of brick walls.

•  Stone elements: For rooms with stone accents or fireplaces, nature-themed murals like mountains, waterfalls, or green forests can harmonize beautifully.

 

Furniture

Furniture in a room underscores personal style, so it's paramount for wall murals to harmonize with this. Antique pieces flourish beside murals like sepia landscapes or old-world maps, modern furniture shines with abstract or minimalist murals, while eclectic bohemian furnishings come alive next to vibrant patterns or tropical scenes. Choosing a mural that complements furniture ensures a cohesive and appealing room aesthetic.

 

Dos and don'ts of choosing a wall mural

 

Feeling ready to embark on the journey of selecting a wall mural? Here are some dos and don'ts to guide you through the process, ensuring that your choice elevates your space and meets your aesthetic and functional needs.

 

Dos

•  Research your theme: Understand the mood or theme you want to set. Be it coastal, vintage, or minimalist, having clarity on your theme will make your selection process smoother.

•  Consider room lighting: Your room's natural and artificial lighting will affect the mural's appearance. Make sure to choose a design that complements the room's lighting. It’s best to check this by ordering a wall mural sample; read here to know how: How to request a wall mural sample

•  Check quality markers: From scrape-resistant to UV-resistant, ensure the mural has the essential quality markers for longevity and safety.

•  Ensure room harmony: Ensure your wallpaper choice blends with the color scheme, furniture, and other elements.

 

Don'ts

•  Rush your decision: Wall murals are a significant decor element. If possible, take your time, order different wall mural samples, and visualize them in your space.

•  Neglect the room's purpose: Choose a theme or motif and create an ambiance suitable for the room’s purpose. For instance, a whimsical and energetic space may suit a kid’s room, while a relaxing minimalist look may suit a workspace.

•  Neglect the overall home theme: Consider assessing the overall theme of your home before choosing your wallpaper. Ensure a seamless transition from one room to another, adhering to the underlying theme.

In conclusion, choosing a wall mural goes beyond picking a design you like. It's about understanding your space, considering the mural's quality and maintenance, and visualizing its impact on the room's ambiance. Remember, a well-chosen mural is an investment in the aesthetics and vibe of your living or working environment. Make your choice count.