"Design Happens"

Although wallpaper has been back on the design radar for some time now, many have been too scared by the damaging effects of 20^th-century patterns and the painful removal process to even consider adding it again. Here’s a creative, eco-friendly wallpaper alternative you’re going to love: sculptural wall coverings. Esther Galarza, HGTV Home Studio intern and student at Savannah College of Art & Design, spent the last quarter working with Vern Yip and other HGTV design experts to create an interactive display focusing on this hot new design trend. The Home Studio university co-op program allows Scripps Networks to work with up-and-coming designers who share creative and unique takes on interior design. Find out what Esther has to say about adding sculptural surfaces in your home.

Esther Galarza and her HGTV Home Studio sculptural surfaces vignette

Three-dimensional sculptural surfaces are textural, warm, dramatic, artistic, luxurious and completely inspired by nature. With a variety of patterns, materials and installation types, adding a sculptural wall covering is an easy way to create a statement in your home. Some of the materials are plaster-like, wood-based and sugar cane pulp (Bagasse). To customize the wall coverings, you can paint them any way you like, too.

“I have seen this product used mainly in commercial and hospitality settings, and many people do not consider the extents you can go with it in a residential setting,” Esther says. “People are beginning to become bolder in their remodeling projects and want to make an impact in their homes with relatively little expense. This is a functional product that offers an abundance of texture, depth and warmth, while decorating a home.”

When using this product, Esther suggests the “less is more” approach. “Due to its overwhelming nature, I would recommend using it as an accent within a room. We want to create comfortable, luxurious and engaging environments that give a strong aesthetic effect. Keep in mind the importance of budget; with this material a little goes a long way,” she says.

Hive Wall Flats, Inhabit

Luna Wall Flats, Inhabit

The best part about these wall coverings is that they can mesh perfectly with any design style.

“They can look just as good as the backsplash of your Arts and Crafts bungalow kitchen or in between two wooden bookcases, as it can in a 15-foot wall of  an industrial loft,” Esther says. “There is nothing more personal than design. Everyone has the abiltity to use the product in any way they choose to. That’s the beauty of these panels; they’re great for reflecting personalities.”

In what room would you add sculptural wall coverings? The kitchen? The bedroom? (Put it in the room that needs the most ‘oomph’.)

Tell us in the comments below.

Kayla is an assistant editor for HGTV.com. When she’s not scouring the internet for delicious design inspiration, she’s shopping for home decor to spruce up her apartment, spending quality time with D'Artagnan, her adopted cat, and finding any reason to be outside. Her favorite design style: eclectic with a vintage, retro vibe.