A Walk in the Woods

I had a client interested in this “Woods” wallpaper, by Cole & Sons. It’s like walking in the forest… take a look!

http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/ny/good-questions/good-questions-what-is-this-wallpaper-015132

http://www.cole-and-son.com/search_results_name.asp?productname=woods&form=4

Since this is a very strong pattern, I suggested she consider using the paper only on one wall, as an accent. I’m wondering if having the forest completely surrounding the room would be overwhelming.

On another note, since the paper is pricey and often available only “to the trade,” I suggested she try my contact at the Southwestern Paint on Bissonnet near Kirby to see if she could get the paper for her, as she often is able to do so. She can also track down patterns that are similar, but less expensive, and also more durable. (Cole & Sons is an uncoated, porous paper that can stain easily.) Dorota Hartwig (713) 520-6262.

Alternately, I offered to connect her with one of the interior designers I work with, who could help get the paper. There would be a fee for the designer’s services, but it would be worth it if she REALLY wants THAT paper.

’70’s Mod on Public Television

Tonight I saw glimpses of a TV show on PBS, “Electric Design,” a reality show where a British family went to live in a ’70’s era home, and had to live as people did back in those days… No cell phones, no computers, no microwaves.

Of course, they dressed in clothing from that era.

But even more cool was to look in the background and see the wallcoverings that were in style at that time. Big bold patterns, wild graphics, optical illusions.

What’s even more cool is that, as my contact who sells wallpaper at the Southwestern Paint on Bissonnet said, you can get these exact same wallpapers today, from contemporary manufacturers.

This “mod” style is very much in vogue with younger homeowners, and especially with residents of lofts and homes with open interiors.

VERY Cool Wallpaper

Check out these very innovative and funky patterns and colors.

http://www.walnutwallpaper.com/index.php

I’m always sceptical of “boutique” papers and “shade tree” manufacturers, because the quality of the paper stock, printing, inks, etc., can be poor.

But judging from the sample of paper from Walnut, I think this company makes some dynamite goods. I can’t wait to install the pattern my client has chosen.

Electric Wallpaper Stripper – ??

I got this e-mail through the National Guild of Professional Paperhangers:

The Rokamat Wallpaper Removal System
Rapidly perforates wallpaper for soaking, then quickly shaves it off the wall
Has a flexible shaft drive leaving the motor off the tool for light weight in the hand
Includes the Chameleon dual disc machine, perforating discs, shaving discs, and rails
Is designed and manufactured in Germany

See it on U-Tube:

http://www.youtube.com/user/ROKAMAT#p/u/1/_u49w4vAl2U

I see this as something that SOUNDS good, especially to novices or DIY’ers. But in actuality, I can’t imagine the damage this gizmo would do to the wall surface.

Why not just stick with good old hot water, a sponge, and a 4″ stiff putty knife?

Wallpapers To Go – CLOSED!

This is shocking to me… I heard some weeks ago that the Katy, Texas Wallpapers To Go store was closing. But yesterday I got the news that the very popular Rice Village store had closed, too. I couldn’t believe it, so I phoned their number, and got a phone company recording offering to redirect me to “other similar businesses in the area.”

This is sad, and it’s shocking. Wallpaper To Go filled a good niche, as they are about the only place left in the Houston area (aside from The Wallpaper Store up on FM 1960) that had wallpaper in stock, for people, particularly DIY’ers, who want to run in, make a selection, and install it the same day.

It’s also a sad indicator of the times. With the economy sluggish and with the slump in wallpaper sales in recent years, it could mean the Wallpapers To Go company simply could not withstand the downturn in sales.

It’s too bad they couldn’t stick it out a few more months, because wallpaper is back in style big time. My business is booming. But sometimes, it’s a corporate decision made by big wigs out of state, irregardless of what sales are like here in Houston.

I’m sorry to see the stores close, and wish their employees the best in their future endeavors.