Hanging a wallcovering is always a challenging job, however imagine if you were installing a custom wallcovering that was measured specially for each nook and cranny and every sketch custom designed for your space? There are many companies, such as Zuber, de Gourney, Starke, Gracie and Paul Montgomery that produce hand painted murals. At H.J. Holtz & Son we have the expertise to handle this custom job.
The wallcovering we installed at this project was paper-backed silk with a hand painted chinoiserie by Paul Montgomery Fine Murals. The walls were repaired where needed by a plasterer and we primed the walls using our primer of choice, Gardz. Muslin, a plain cotton fabric, was then applied to all of the walls to help ease any future removal of the wallcovering. To give stability, absorb excess paste, and also let us know where problem areas may occur during installation, we applied a blank stock liner.
The blueprints were checked within the space. We reviewed each panel to see if there were any defects or discrepancies present in design, layout, or painting design. Some were found which is common with any hand painted goods. We determined they were minor so it would be better to repair them and make adjustments after the installation. Our other alternative was to send the panels back and wait approximately 4-6 months for a new panel that may or may not be a significantly better match. Once these steps were completed, we were ready to begin hanging the hand painted silk wallcovering.
We started hanging the wallcovering in a niche on the landing, which was the main focal point. You can see how customized the design is. The peacock is centered perfectly in the niche as the branches and flowers flow seamlessly through the curved wall.
We had the complexity of working with multiple off corners as well as plaster unevenness, which is common on older homes. Because of our experience, we were able to make these adjustments without issues.
Once all of the wallcovering was hung, we went back and reviewed the design. At the homeowner’s request we hand painted and appliquéd additional birds, butterflies, and plants throughout the wallcovering using watercolor and gouache paints.
Notice how beautifully the the custom design moves up the stairs with the wainscoting and how the branches surround the arched doorway.
The finished product is this absolutely gorgeous foyer! We were not only able to install the custom designed wallcovering, but our skilled craftsmen were also were able to add additional decorative finishes.
