Designers Are Saying Goodbye to Flat Painted Walls — Here’s the Textured Trend Taking Over Interiors

Interior design tastes are shifting, and flat painted walls are increasingly being replaced with surfaces that offer texture, depth, and visual intrigue. Experts and designers report that clients are now seeking walls that go beyond simple color, creating spaces that feel bespoke, elevated, and dynamic.

Reeded Wood:

Interior designer Becky Shea installed reeded walnut paneling in a bedroom, extending across the ceiling to create an enveloping, warm effect. This approach adds depth and contrast, resulting in a space that feels both distinctive and timeless.

Uniform Tiles:

Rachael Gowdridge designed bathroom tiles inspired by a 19th-century lithograph, using a repeating pattern for whimsy. The monolithic basin shelf clad in the same tile ensures consistency and playfulness, making a small space feel bright and visually interesting.

Colorful Grasscloth:

Grasscloth provides the texture of wallpaper with the solidity of paint. Gowdridge used a rich green grasscloth to bring subtle depth and warmth, adding sophistication and a layered feel to the room.

Folding Screens:

Fabric-covered folding screens serve as room dividers while contributing tactile richness. Designer Marty Dykas used one as a headboard, creating a special visual focal point visible from the entryway.

Wood Paneling:

Original carved wood paneling can be a design highlight. Andy Barlow preserved the 1914 paneling in a family home, balancing it with lighter areas for contrast and character.

Exposed Painted Brick:

Uncovered brick brings natural texture to interiors. Anshu Bangia incorporated existing painted brick in a Brooklyn kitchen, adding depth while maintaining a bright, airy backdrop.

Patterned Wallpaper

Wallpaper remains a versatile option for adding playfulness and personality. Designer Miranda Cullen uses patterns to enhance architecture, highlight color palettes, and create cheerful, inviting spaces.

Conclusion

From wood and brick to grasscloth and patterned wallpaper, the trend toward textured walls is redefining interior design. Spaces are becoming more tactile, layered, and memorable, proving that walls are no longer just a backdrop—they’re a central design statement.