How Decorative Wall Finishes Shape the Experience of Interior Spaces

In interior design, walls are often treated as a backdrop rather than a defining element. However, professionals working closely with materials and surfaces know that wall finishes play a much deeper role in shaping how spaces feel, function, and age over time.

To better understand this perspective, we spoke with Kris A., a design professional whose work focuses on decorative wall finishes and material-driven interiors, and who works with a company specializing in decorative wall finishes.

Q: Why do wall finishes matter more than people usually think?

Kris A.:
Walls are the largest uninterrupted surfaces in most interiors, so they quietly influence everything else in the room. Texture, reflectivity, and material depth affect how light behaves, how spacious a room feels, and even how comfortable it is to spend time there. When finishes are chosen thoughtfully, they create balance rather than distraction.

Q: How has the approach to decorative wall finishes evolved in recent years?

Kris A.:
There has been a clear shift away from purely visual trends toward material awareness. People are paying more attention to texture, durability, and long-term performance. Decorative finishes are no longer just about color or pattern — they’re about how a surface feels, how it interacts with natural light, and how it supports the overall atmosphere of a space.

Q: What are common mistakes people make when selecting wall materials?

Kris A.:
One of the biggest mistakes is choosing materials in isolation. A finish that looks great in a showroom can behave very differently once it’s placed in a real environment with specific lighting and proportions. Another issue is overlooking how finishes age. Materials should be selected not only for their initial appearance, but for how they will perform and look years later.

Q: How do professional organizations influence your work and perspective?

Kris A.:
Being part of professional communities helps maintain high standards and encourages continuous learning. I’m a member of the Interior Design Society (IDS) and the Wallcoverings Association (WIA), and both organizations emphasize education, ethical practice, and respect for materials. That shared knowledge shapes how professionals approach design decisions responsibly.

Q: What role do wall finishes play in creating a cohesive interior?

Kris A.:
Wall finishes act as a visual anchor. When they’re chosen correctly, everything else — furniture, lighting, textiles — falls into place more naturally. Instead of competing for attention, the elements of a room begin to support one another, creating a calm and intentional environment.

Looking Ahead

As interiors become more thoughtful and less trend-driven, wall finishes are gaining recognition as a core design element rather than a background choice. Texture, material quality, and long-term performance are increasingly shaping how spaces are experienced.