Fall in Love with Versatile, Naturally Lovely Leaf Motifs

(ARA) – Mother Nature isn’t the only decorator who can use leaves to stunning effect. Leaf motifs have been popular in home décor for about as long as people have been living in houses.

Grape and olive leaves appear in ancient Greek art. Victorians plastered leaf patterns on everything from cutlery to fireplace mantles. The enduring appeal of leaf motifs is rooted in the simple patterns and color palettes that characterize the design. Whether you use a leaf pattern to make a bold statement or as a soft backdrop to a stronger pattern, leaf designs coordinate well with stronger patterns and accent furnishings.

Modern homeowners and designers are discovering that leaf patterns mesh especially well with current design trends. First, the patterns draw on nature, tapping the trend towards the harmonious incorporation of natural elements and eco-awareness in home design. Also, a leaf pattern can fulfill many couples’ design requirement for a look that is neither too masculine nor too feminine. Finally, leaf designs transcend seasonality; you can make a great leaf motif appear seasonal by changing decorative accessories in a room.

Wallpaper designers in particular are keeping the classic leaf motif fresh and new through a range of interesting techniques, including:

* Metallic backgrounds or accents,
* Mica or foil highlights,
* Flocking,
* Embroidery looks,
* Textural overlays and backgrounds.

Leaf patterned wallpapers are particularly useful in some areas of modern homes where adding design interest – without overdoing it – can be a challenge, such as entryways, powder rooms, dining rooms and kitchens.

By evoking the peaceful qualities of nature, leaf designs set a warm welcoming tone – one that can impart a casual or sophisticated atmosphere, depending on the techniques in the design. For example, metallic or embroidered leaf designs will create an elegant, refined look for a formal dining room. Wallpaper manufacturer Sandpiper Studios incorporates subtle metallic accents into an airy combination of palm fronds and leaves to evoke a sophisticated aura. A paisley leaf pattern can deliver a more traditional tone for a home office, and rendered in a trellis design, leaf patterns evoke a country flair for kitchens.

Thinking of using a leaf motif in your home décor? Keep in mind that smaller scale designs typically work well in smaller areas, while large-scale designs are ideal for large, adjoining rooms. Bold, modern designs can make a strong statement when used in a master bedroom. For example, wallpaper manufacturer Thibaut uses basic black and white and a large-leaf design to create a dominant pattern that naturally draws the eye.

When choosing a leaf pattern for smaller rooms, use a design with a more subdued color palette. Or, if using a design with bold, bright colors, consider limiting it to an accent wall. If you love a pattern but fear it may overwhelm a room, start by placing it on just one wall as a focal point and use a simpler pattern – such as a stripe, texture or faux finish – on a coordinating wall.

To view more leaf motifs and draw design ideas, visit www.seabrookwallpaper.com or www.thibautdesign.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent