Most people ignore the importance of interior design, by assuming that its goal is superficial (to make a room look good), but actually, the term of “interior design” describes a lot of related projects whose sole aim is to transform an interior space here into a proper setting for effective human activities. Out of the different elements of interior design, one is easily recognized by everyone: the walls.
From paint to panels to neo-classical abstract patterns or modern graffiti, wall design has always been a priority due to its ability to transmit so much aesthetic information in a direct manner. Wall covering has come a long way in the past decades and a few materials have become more popular than others.
Without any doubt, the best known wall covering material is wallpaper. Being easy to apply, durable and cost-effective, a lot of individuals chose this alternative in spite of it non-sophisticated appearance. Even if there are only seven basic patterns on which all wallpaper models are based, wallpapers can also be custom made, thus giving the possibility of personalized options. Another perk of going with wallpaper is that if you ever change your mind, it is very easy to take down (just by brushing down the paper with water).
The other popular alternative is the use of plastic wall panels, which are also quite indicated if wanting to finish the job very quickly and without any residue. The main advantage of plastic panels is of course durability: they have a longer life span than their wood counterparts while also being very low maintenance (all that is needed to clean them being a damp cloth). They are also light-weight and very easy to install (not requiring any special tools) and their variety is also unmatched by any other wall covering material. Other advantages of plastic wall panels are: they are inexpensive, flame resistant and, as also stated about wallpaper, very easy to change.
There is also one disadvantage of choosing this material: not all manufacturers produce plastic panels with regard to the environment. Even if there have been a lot of developments in the field of degrading plastic and making the processes involved in producing it environment friendly, this has not yet reached a global scale, thus making plastic materials a threat. With luck, in 50 years, plastic will either be replaced or manufactured in a safe manner.