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February 22, 2025

Wallpaper: What You Need to Know
(And Why You Absolutely Need Us to Help You Get It Right)

Let’s be real—wallpaper is one of the best things to happen to interior design. It can add depth, drama, whimsy, or elegance to a space faster than you can say “Do I need to prime my walls first?” (Spoiler: You probably do.)

But while wallpaper is gorgeous, it’s also tricky. Picking the right one is not as simple as flipping through a sample book, pointing at something pretty, and slapping it on the wall. There are patterns to match, rolls to calculate, and walls that need proper prepping—not to mention the very real possibility of ending up with a living room that looks like a DIY crime scene if you try to install it yourself.

That’s where we come in. At Rowan Hall Interiors, we take the stress, guesswork, and potential wallpaper-related meltdowns out of the process. We help you choose the perfect wallpaper, handle all the measuring and ordering, and—most importantly—arrange for professional installation so you don’t have to worry about air bubbles, crooked seams, or walls that look like a patchwork quilt gone wrong.

So, before you let your Pinterest board convince you that you’re a wallpaper expert, here’s everything you need to know—and why you should leave it to the pros.

Picking the Right Wallpaper Is Harder Than It Looks

Not all wallpaper is created equal. Some are wipeable (perfect for kids’ rooms and bathrooms), some are natural (hello, visible seams), and some are high-maintenance divas.

For example:

  • Vinyl wallpaper – The gold standard for bathrooms and kitchens. Moisture? No problem.
  • Grasscloth wallpaper – Beautiful and textural but will show seams, so if that makes your eye twitch, maybe reconsider.
  • Fabric or silk wallpaper – Stunning, luxurious, and an absolute nightmare if someone spills a glass of wine on it.
  • Custom murals – A jaw-dropping way to make a statement, but not something you want applied by an amateur.

The good news? We know exactly which wallpapers work best where, and we’ll help you pick the perfect one so you don’t end up with a grasscloth wall you resent for the rest of your life.

Just Because a Wallpaper Looks Pretty in the Sample Book Doesn’t Mean It Works in Your Home

That giant floral pattern might be stunning, but if it clashes with your furniture, draperies, and rug, you might start to feel like you’re living inside a botanical explosion. Wallpaper isn’t just about making a statement—it needs to work with the whole design of your home.

That’s where hiring an interior designer in Knoxville is a game-changer. We make sure your wallpaper looks intentional, whether that means re-picking the paper or re-vamping the space.

Custom Murals: Because You Deserve Something One-of-a-Kind

If you’re really looking for wow-factor, custom murals are where it’s at. Imagine a hand-painted scenic landscape in your dining room, an elegant chinoiserie mural in your entryway, or a whimsical, dreamy backdrop for your nursery.

And did you know? Our Color Specialist, Sylvia, is an experienced commercial and residential muralist! Whether you’re looking for a fully custom, hand-painted mural or a specialty wallpaper with a mural effect, Sylvia’s expertise ensures that your walls become a work of art.

But let’s be clear—custom murals require serious skill to execute properly. You don’t want your hand-painted masterpiece looking like something your nephew did in art class. We work with top artists and installers to make sure your mural is executed flawlessly.

Sylvia at work- check out her murals by clicking the picture above!

Wallpaper Math Is a Thing (And You Definitely Don’t Want to Get It Wrong)

Ordering wallpaper is not as simple as measuring your walls and placing an order. You have to factor in:

  • Pattern repeats (because some designs need extra rolls to match up properly)
  • Roll widths (because not all wallpaper is the same size)
  • Waste calculations (because the last thing you want is to run out halfway through)

If you under-order, you could end up with a backorder situation that leaves you staring at a half-finished wall for weeks. If you over-order, well… you’ll have an expensive pile of extra rolls sitting in your closet. We handle all of this for you so you don’t have to do math (or panic).

Your Walls Need to Be Ready—Or Your Wallpaper Will Betray You

Wallpaper is like a high-maintenance houseguest—it will show every flaw underneath if you don’t prep properly. Walls need to be:
✔️ Smooth (any bumps or cracks will be painfully obvious)
✔️ Primed correctly (some wallpapers require a special base coat)
✔️ Painted behind (if your wallpaper is thin or dark, the base color matters)

We make sure all of this is done before installation, so you don’t end up with a textured disaster.

Wallpaper Installation Is a Job for Professionals—Period.

Have you ever tried to line up wallpaper seams perfectly while juggling sticky glue, air bubbles, and a rapidly drying adhesive? No? Good—keep it that way.

Here’s what professional installers do that you don’t want to:

  • Align seams perfectly so there are no weird gaps
  • Apply the right adhesive (yes, different wallpapers require different pastes!)
  • Smooth out every air bubble like it was never there
  • Make sure it actually stays on the wall and doesn’t start peeling two weeks later

We work with the best wallpaper installers in Knoxville, so you never have to worry about a wallpaper fail.

A Well-Chosen Wallpaper Can Instantly Increase the Value of Your Home

A stunning, well-installed wallpaper makes a home feel more high-end, custom, and intentional. But a bad wallpaper choice (or worse—a bad install) can have the opposite effect.

At Rowan Hall Interiors, we make sure your wallpaper looks elegant, timeless, and 100% perfect.

Thinking About Wallpaper? Let’s Make It Effortless for You.

At Rowan Hall Interiors, we sell a wide range of wallpaper brands at different price points—meaning we can help you find the perfect wallpaper for your home, style, and budget. But we don’t stop there.

We also:
✔️ Help you select the perfect wallpaper for your space
✔️ Coordinate and handle all the ordering and logistics so you don’t have to worry about quantities, lead times, or backorders
✔️ Offer exclusive access to high-end and custom wallpaper brands
✔️ Work with Knoxville’s best professional wallpaper installers to ensure a flawless final result
✔️ Offer custom murals and hand-painted designs by Sylvia, our expert muralist and Color Specialist

Whether you’re dreaming of a custom mural, a classic grasscloth wallpaper, or a bold statement wall, we make the entire process seamless and stress-free.

Wallpaper isn’t just back—it never left. And with the right guidance, it can be the most stunning addition to your home.

Thinking about wallpaper? Call us today. We’ll handle every detail so you can enjoy a beautifully designed space—without the stress.

Get the Rowan Hall party started!

To get in touch with a member of our team, fill out our contact form.

To discuss a potential project and get more information, schedule a discovery call.

To get started making your home extraordinary, book a consultation.

February 7, 2025

Pretty in Pink
Infusing Romance and Sophistication into Your Home This Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is in the air, and what better way to celebrate than by embracing one of interior design’s most romantic and versatile colors—pink! Whether you prefer soft blush tones, bold fuchsia, or sophisticated rose, pink has the power to transform your home into a stylish and inviting retreat.

At Rowan Hall Interiors, we’re no strangers to color. As a Knoxville interior designer, we love incorporating shades of pink in fresh, elevated ways that feel both timeless and personal to each client. Inspired by some of our recent projects, let’s explore how you can use pink to create a space that feels luxurious, inviting, and perfect for celebrating love year-round.

The Subtle Romance of Blush

Soft, barely-there blush tones are the perfect way to add warmth and elegance without overwhelming a space. Blush acts as a modern neutral, pairing beautifully with creamy whites, muted grays, and natural woods.

In one of our favorite projects, we layered blush textiles over a neutral base, creating a living space that feels effortlessly sophisticated. As Farragut and Knoxville interior designers, we often use blush tones to bring a hint of romance into spaces without making them feel overly feminine.

Where to Use Blush:

  • Upholstered seating (like a velvet settee or accent chair)
  • Drapery and soft window treatments
  • Textured throw pillows for a hint of color
  • A feature wall in a warm blush-toned paint

Bold & Beautiful: Fuchsia as a Statement

For those who love a dramatic and playful aesthetic, fuchsia and deep berry tones bring energy and excitement to a space. A bold pink can instantly modernize a room, making it feel vibrant, chic, and sophisticated.

In one of our more daring designs, we introduced fuchsia upholstery on a sleek, modern chair, turning it into the undeniable focal point of the room. Paired with neutral walls and gold accents, the bold pink feels both playful and refined.

Where to Use Bold Pinks:

  • A statement armchair or ottoman
  • High-gloss lacquered furniture
  • Abstract art with bold pink hues
  • A vibrant area rug that grounds the space

Soft & Serene: Layering Pink with Neutrals

One of the easiest ways to incorporate pink into your home is by pairing it with soft neutrals. Light pinks and warm whites create a serene, spa-like environment, while richer hues like mauve and dusty rose add depth and elegance.

In a recent Knoxville interior design project, we used blush-toned bedding against a neutral backdrop, creating a restful and romantic bedroom retreat. The result? A space that feels airy, cozy, and completely luxurious.

Best Combinations for Layering Pink:

  • Pink + Soft Gray (for a modern, understated feel)
  • Pink + Warm Whites (for a classic, romantic aesthetic)
  • Pink + Deep Green (for a fresh, botanical-inspired contrast)
  • Pink + Gold or Brass (for a touch of glamour)

Feminine Meets Sophisticated: Dusty Rose & Mauve

For those who love pink but want something a little more refined, dusty rose and mauve tones offer a sophisticated alternative. These hues are warm and earthy, making them perfect for elegant, timeless interiors.

As a leading Farragut and Knoxville interior design firm, we love incorporating dusty rose into upholstered pieces, drapery, and accent walls. In one project, we used mauve-hued drapery to add warmth and elegance to a space without making it feel overly feminine.

Where to Use Dusty Rose & Mauve:

  • Upholstered headboards for a soft, luxurious feel
  • Drapery with a romantic, billowy texture
  • Accent walls in a warm mauve hue
  • Statement-making wallpaper with subtle pink floral patterns

Timeless Elegance: Pink in Traditional Spaces

Pink isn’t just for contemporary designs—it also has a place in classic, traditional interiors. Think vintage-inspired floral prints, soft pink tufted sofas, and delicate porcelain decor that exudes old-world charm.

In a more traditional setting, we used a subtle pink wallpaper with a damask pattern to bring in a timeless, romantic element. The result? A room that feels refined, inviting, and effortlessly elegant.

How to Use Pink in Traditional Interiors:

  • Wallpaper with delicate floral or damask patterns
  • Vintage-style upholstered chairs in soft pink hues
  • Elegant glass or crystal decor with hints of pink
  • Persian or vintage-inspired area rugs with subtle pink detailing
Thibuat Wallpaper: Lincoln Toile- This statement paper balances traditional imagery and a soft, cool color pallete with it’s eleborate composition to create a vision that draws the eye without overwhelming it. Prints like this make enclosed spaces like powder rooms feel purposeful and expansive!
Thibuat Wallpaper: Meadow- Abstracted just enough to feel timeless, this design is extremely versile. Grounded in a warm, traditional rose with hints of peach, it’s scale and flow make it the perfect middleground between a modern botanical and a classic floral.

Is Pink for You?

Pink is one of the most versatile colors in interior design—it can be soft and delicate, bold and vibrant, or rich and sophisticated. Whether you incorporate it through paint, furniture, or decor, there’s a shade of pink for every home and every personality.

This Valentine’s Day, embrace the beauty of pink in your interiors! And if you need expert guidance, Rowan Hall Interiors is here to help. As a trusted Knoxville interior designer, we specialize in creating beautifully curated spaces that reflect our clients’ unique style.

January 24, 2025

Maximizing Wall Space with an Interior Designer
Artful Tips for a Cohesive and Stylish Home

Your walls are more than just surfaces—they’re an opportunity to express your style and tell your story. While working with an interior designer ensures flow, harmony, and access to exclusive art pieces, following some key tips can elevate your wall space to professional-level brilliance. Here’s how to combine designer expertise with practical advice for walls that wow.

1. Elevate Art Placement: The 66-Inch Rule

The golden rule for hanging art is to center pieces 66 inches from the floor. This places the center of the artwork at eye level for most people, ensuring it’s easily enjoyed without straining or craning your neck.

Designer Tip: For groupings of smaller pieces, treat the entire grouping as a single unit and center that grouping at 66 inches.

2. Group Art Thoughtfully: Balance Over Bulk

When arranging smaller pieces together, consider the horizontal and vertical lines they create. Stick to groups of two or three, as too many pieces can overwhelm a space and disrupt visual flow.

Why It Works: Smaller groupings allow each piece to shine without creating clutter, keeping the wall design clean and intentional.

Art isn’t limited to paper or canvas- check out the vertical line these colorful plates add to this space.
Think about layering in wall space- here we’ve filled layered 2D and 3D art objects to above this chest.

3. Spotlight Family Photos: Quality Over Quantity

While it’s tempting to display every cherished memory, a single standout family photo can be far more impactful than a hodgepodge of moments.

How to Choose the Perfect Centerpiece Photo:

  • Universal Appeal: Does everyone in the family like the photo?
  • Visual Aesthetics: Is it well-composed, as if taken by a professional? Avoid photos with cluttered backgrounds or strangers.
  • Resolution Matters: Ensure the photo is high enough resolution to scale up for large prints.
  • Wedding and Event Photos: Professional shots from special occasions often tick all these boxes, making them excellent centerpiece options.

Why It Works: A single, large family photo framed beautifully becomes a conversation starter and focal point, elevating the space’s design.

4. Balance Art and Photos: Art as the Heart of a Home

While family photos are meaningful, art can be transformative in capturing a home’s aesthetic and making it feel uniquely yours.

“My parents bought prints from the National Gallery in D.C. for their house before I was born,” explains Sylvia, Rowan Hall’s resident Artist and Color Specialist. “I was mesmerized by some of them when I was a child. I used to lie on my parents’ bed and stare at Van Gogh’s Wheat Field with Cypresses from all different angles. It made me feel so serene, and I’d see elephants in the clouds. When I was upset, I’d always try to go into my parents’ bedroom to cry if it was empty because that print comforted me in a way I still can’t fully explain or understand.”

Art isn’t just decoration—it’s a source of feeling and connection. Fill your home with pieces that speak to you, and they’ll resonate for years to come.

Tip: Keep an art-to-photo ratio of 70:30 or higher, with art taking precedence. Cherish photos that don’t make it to the wall by storing them in albums, scrapbooks, or curated digital collections.

Wheat Field with Cypresses by Vincent Van Gogh; Image Source: metmuseum.org

5. Best Places for Photo Displays

Certain areas of your home are ideal for displaying family photos without compromising the overall flow.

  • Staircases: Create a gallery wall that tells a story as you ascend or descend.
  • Hallways: Use linear arrangements to showcase a timeline of memories.
  • Offices: Keep a few key photos nearby for personal motivation without overcrowding your workspace.

Designer Tip: Group photos in spaces that naturally encourage close viewing, while leaving central living areas for art that complements the room’s overall aesthetic.

6. Light, Frame, and Balance with Intention

  • Lighting: Install picture lights or use nearby lamps to illuminate wall displays, enhancing their presence.
  • Frames: Choose cohesive frame styles that match the room’s decor for a polished look.
  • Matting: Use mats to add elegance and give each piece its own visual space.

Why It Works: These finishing touches ensure your walls look curated rather than cluttered.

Bulky frames aren’t always the way to go- the minimal black frames pictured here keep the artworks elevated and coordinated without drawing attention away from the pieces.

Partner with an Interior Designer for Perfection

An interior designer adds expertise, access to exclusive art and framing options, and an eye for creating seamless flow. From sourcing custom pieces to crafting layouts that enhance the entire room, a designer’s input ensures your walls make a statement while feeling cohesive with the rest of your home.

At Rowan Hall Interiors, we specialize in helping clients maximize their wall space while blending personal touches with refined design. Whether you’re showcasing a stunning family photo or sourcing bespoke artwork, we’ll ensure your walls become a masterpiece of style and meaning.

Ready to transform your walls? Contact us today to schedule a consultation and let our Knoxville design team bring your walls to life!

Get the Rowan Hall party started!

To get in touch with a member of our team, fill out our contact form.

To discuss a potential project and get more information, schedule a discovery call.

To get started making your home extraordinary, book a consultation.

January 17, 2025

This Year, Live Colorfully!
2025 Color Trends According to Sherwin-Williams

The 2025 Sherwin-Williams Colormix Forecast presents a dynamic and multifaceted color palette organized into four themed capsules—Chrysalis, Paradox, Wellspring, and Kindred. Each capsule is thoughtfully designed to reflect different moods, styles, and stories, making this year’s forecast more expansive and personal than ever. Bringing these palettes to life is Rowan Hall Interiors’ color specialist, Sylvia, whose creative eye and deep understanding of color pairings make the possibilities truly inspiring. In this article, Sylvia not only shares her insights into each capsule but also demonstrates how to integrate them into your home with style. Be sure to check out our Instagram reels, where Sylvia showcases textile samples alongside each capsule, illustrating how these colors interact in various proportions and offering endless possibilities for creating spaces that are both cohesive and uniquely personal.

Wellspring

A nod to classic, heritage-inspired tones, this palette includes rich, sophisticated colors like deep navy blues and golden browns. These hues offer elegance and can be perfect for grounding interiors, particularly in living rooms or formal dining areas. Wadden described Wellspring as “drawing from heritage-inspired tones,” with “timeless elegance and a sense of history” that pairs beautifully with luxurious textiles like velvet, and complements warm, wood-based furniture for a timeless yet modern feel.

Chrysalis

Focused on serene, sanctuary-like spaces, this capsule features muted earth tones, such as warm beiges and calming greys, perfect for minimalist designs. “Chrysalis offers minimalist, raw neutrals perfect for creating serene, uncluttered spaces that evoke a sense of calm and simplicity,” said Sue Wadden, Sherwin-Williams’ Director of Color Marketing. These shades are ideal for spaces that need tranquility, such as bedrooms or reading nooks, and can be paired with natural wood furnishings, plush carpets, or neutral textiles for a peaceful vibe.

Kindred

This capsule evokes a sense of community and warmth, with inviting colors like soft whites and playful reds. It lends itself to family-centric spaces such as kitchens or communal living areas. “Kindred embraces warm, community-focused colors that foster connection and create inviting, cozy environments,” Wadden added. These shades can be paired with textured rugs, cozy throws, and rich wood tones to create a welcoming environment.

Paradox

If you’re looking for bold and expressive color, Paradox offers dynamic, high-energy hues like candy-coated pinks and vibrant blues. This palette works well for statement pieces like accent walls, unique furniture, or textiles. “Paradox features bold, dynamic colors designed to make a statement and energize any space with vibrant, eye-catching hues,” according to Wadden. Think modern maximalist spaces with funky patterns and eclectic decor that push the boundaries of traditional design.

*Image Credits: Sherwin Williams 2025 Colormix Forecast Capsules and Sherwin Williams STIR 2025 Colormix Forecast

According to Sylvia, Sherwin-Williams’ 2025 approach is refreshing. “This method of creating different mini collections rather than picking one color for the entire year is very clever. It allows everyone to pick their favorite direction, sort of a choose-your-own adventure for the mood of your specific space and style.” She also appreciates how this year’s forecast offers both versatility and boldness without sacrificing style: “Generally speaking, choosing any big color or color scheme is a balancing act between versatility and visual interest. This year’s Sherwin-Williams Color Forecast basically threw that model of compromises out the window so it could have its cake and eat it too! She who makes the colors makes the rules, I suppose!”

Sylvia approves of the colors selected and recognizes several of them from her recent paint consultations with clients. “Outerspace, French Roast, and Sealskin are all lovely deep, rich colors I’ve picked alongside clients, especially for exteriors. Drift of Mist is one of my go-to off whites and Sea Salt is an all-time favorite as well! I definitely recognize those names and can whole-heartedly endorse them on a large scale. It’s exciting to see them in the forecast, a little like reading a friend’s name in the newspaper. ‘Hey! I know that guy!'” For clients working with Rowan Hall Interiors, these colors offer endless possibilities, both in paint and beyond. Whether it’s custom draperies, textiles, rugs, or furnishings, this forecast provides a roadmap to infuse any space with modern, thoughtful color choices.

Book Your Consultation Today

If you’re feeling inspired by these 2025 color trends, why not reach out to Rowan Hall Interiors for a personalized color consultation with Sylvia? Our expert team, led by Alfie Rowan, can help you seamlessly integrate these trending palettes into your home, creating a space that reflects both your style and the year’s most exciting colors. Contact us today to get started on your dream project!

Get the Rowan Hall party started!

To get in touch with a member of our team, fill out our contact form.

To discuss a potential project and get more information, schedule a discovery call.

To get started making your home extraordinary, book a consultation.

Keep Up your Reading Streak!

Want to learn more about our color consultation process? Check out our this post:

The Art of Color: Why You Need a Paint Color Consultation

Sylvia showcasing her experience as a local muralist

“A paint color consultant brings expertise and experience to the table. They understand the nuances of color theory, lighting, and design principles, allowing them to provide personalized recommendations tailored to your unique preferences and space. Our Color Specialist, Sylvia, studied color and design at MICA, one of the top art schools in the country, and spent a year putting her education into practice as a local muralist. She understands color and painting from a fine arts standpoint, which translates beautifully into creating compositions with color in designed spaces.”

Read More…

January 10, 2025

New Year, New Home
Elevate Your Space in 2025 with Rowan Hall Interiors

Pictured above, a festive AI imagining inspired by photographs of our real work as seen below. We wanted to save on helium.
As we embrace 2025, there’s no better time to upgrade your home and refresh your living space. With Rowan Hall Interiors, your trusted Knoxville interior designer, we make this the year you truly fall in love with where you live. From custom furniture to expertly curated rooms, let us show you how new furnishings and thoughtful design can transform your home.
 

Start with a Critical Eye

Take a walk through your home with fresh eyes. Does your dining room reflect your style and function perfectly for gatherings? Could Grandma’s hutch use an update, or perhaps that aging chandelier deserves a stunning replacement? Investing in timeless pieces not only elevates your space but enhances your daily life.

The living room often holds the most memories, but is your sofa as dreamy as it should be? If it’s seen better days, consider performance fabrics that balance durability and style. These options can stand up to kids, pets, and even wine spills, making them perfect for real living.

And don’t forget the primary bedroom—your retreat deserves to be as serene as a five-star hotel. Think upholstered headboards, luxurious bedding, and smart storage solutions to create a sanctuary where you can recharge.

Why Rowan Hall Interiors is Your Knoxville Resource for Interior Design and Furniture

Shopping for furniture in Knoxville can be overwhelming. While local showrooms have their charm, they often limit you to what’s in stock. At Rowan Hall, we break free from those constraints, offering custom furniture and a curated design process tailored specifically to your needs and style. We specialize in whole-room transformations—not just selling one piece of furniture, but ensuring every detail flows seamlessly.

Our team knows Knoxville inside and out. From Farragut to downtown lofts, we’ve worked in countless homes, bringing them to life with custom drapery, carefully selected rugs, and designer lighting that sets the tone for each space. Whether you’re looking for a Knoxville interior designer or unique Knoxville furniture, we handle everything from design to installation, allowing you to enjoy a stress-free process.

The Perks of Professional Design

When you work with Rowan Hall Interiors, you get more than just beautiful furniture. You gain access to:

  • Custom Solutions: Whether it’s furniture, draperies, or bedding, we create pieces tailored to your home and lifestyle.
  • Expert Guidance: Our Knoxville interior designers use their knowledge to select high-quality furnishings and ensure every piece fits perfectly within your home.
  • Seamless Service: We manage all the details, from selecting fabrics to arranging furniture delivery and installation.

Transform Your Knoxville Home for 2025

Living beautifully is about surrounding yourself with quality, timeless pieces that reflect your style and enhance your life. Whether you’re upgrading your dining room, refreshing your bedroom, or completely redesigning your living space, Rowan Hall Interiors is here to help. If you’re searching for Knoxville furniture that’s as unique as you are or a Knoxville interior designer who can bring your vision to life, look no further.

Let’s make 2025 the year you fall in love with your home. Reach out to Rowan Hall Interiors today for a consultation. Together, we’ll create a space that feels uniquely yours and perfectly curated for the life you want to live.

Contact us to start your transformation today. Your dream home is just a phone call away!