Two decorating trends are capturing the attention of homeowners looking to update their living spaces – the resurgence of wallpaper and the growing popularity of luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring. The former has transformed into a stylish and versatile design element that adds personality and flair to any space and the latter offers a great alternative to traditional hardwood. If you’re looking to update your home this summer, these two trends may be the perfect choices for your next home project.

Q: I’ve been hearing more and more about the rising popularity of wallpaper. But I can’t help but picture the old-fashioned designs from my grandmother’s house, and the idea of hanging it seems incredibly daunting. Is wallpaper a decorating trend I should consider to update my living spaces?
A: Absolutely! Wallpaper’s popularity has skyrocketed, currently taking center stage when it comes to interior design. It has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, evolving from a simple wall covering into a design element that adds personality, texture, and visual interest to any room. Its versatility – boasting bold patterns, vibrant colors, and textured finishes – allows you to easily create interesting focal points within spaces. Its creative uses further solidify wallpaper’s position as a great design tool. When updating your living spaces, think beyond traditional applications. Consider using it as ceiling accents, furniture enhancement, and even personalized galleries created with framed wallpaper or used as artwork to express your individual style. From classic retro designs to modern geometrics to natural motifs and more, the options are endless.

Peel-and-stick wallpaper offers convenient installation compared to its traditional counterpart, particularly if you’re looking to personalize your spaces without permanent alterations – minimal setup, virtually no mess, and quick application. But one of its downsides is the potential for air bubbles and mistakes during application. While it’s certainly possible to fix those mistakes, repeated peeling and sticking can lead to creases and other issues in the paper itself. Traditional wallpaper, on the other hand, while messy, allows for easier correction while it’s being installed, due to the slower drying time of the paste. Whichever route you choose – peel-and-stick or traditional – start with high-quality wallpaper for best results.

Q: I’m considering redoing my floors. Can you help me understand if luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring is a good option for my renovation project? How can I know if it is the right choice for my home versus hardwood flooring?
A: When considering LVP flooring for your renovation project, there are several key factors to keep in mind. First, its durability is a significant advantage, particularly in high-traffic areas like kitchens and living rooms. LVP’s ability to resist scratches, dents, and water damage makes it ideal for families with kids and pets. It also offers affordability without compromising on appearance. The low-maintenance aspect is another important consideration. Unlike hardwood flooring, which requires regular refinishing, LVP can be easily cleaned with simple sweeping and mopping. Additionally, it comes in a range of styles, colors, and textures, so you can achieve the look and feel of natural materials like hardwood or stone, without the associated cost or maintenance requirements. However, it’s important to consider potential drawbacks as well. While it does have a realistic look, LVP is made from synthetic materials like PVC, which may raise environmental concerns for some. Additionally, proper installation is crucial to prevent issues such as buckling or gaps, so it’s essential to follow manufacturer guidelines carefully. And while LVP is gaining popularity, it could impact resale value considerations, as some buyers may still prefer traditional flooring materials like hardwood. But overall, LVP flooring is a durable, affordable, and versatile flooring option … I recommend weighing these factors against the specific needs and preferences of your family to determine if it’s the right choice for your home.