Wallpaper That Inspires
By Emma Stergoulis & Eunice Aubert with Patricia Braune
30 September 2024
Exploring Trends in Australia and Europe with Designer Patricia Braune
Materials Board by Emma Stergoulis
As designers we are seeing how wallpaper has become a staple part of more luxury moodboards. In light of this we thought we would have a look at how wallpaper has evolved. When it comes to wallpaper, Australia and Europe have their own unique approaches, shaped by everything from climate to culture. While both regions love a good wallpapered wall, they do it in ways that reflect their distinct styles and histories. We have been lucky enough to get some wonderful insight from Australian Textile & Surface Designer Patricia Braune who’s designs have graced many Australian homes and even Cartier’s newly designed Sydney store.
So grab yourself a cup of tea and enjoy!
Q & A With Patricia Braune
Q : Australia’s climate is extreme and varied, with humid coastal areas to dry inland regions. How does this affect your designs and does this affect the choice of the materials that you use in the design process?
A : “When I design wallpaper, I always keep the unique Australian interior style in mind. Our homes here range from light, modern spaces in coastal settings to charming, traditional Victorian heritage houses. The climate also plays a significant role in my designs, especially when selecting colour palettes that suit the Australian environment. I have a soft spot for traditional homes with so much character—these spaces are a natural fit for wallpaper. However, I’ve noticed that internationally, the trend is shifting towards contemporary homes, which creates a growing demand for designs that strike a balance between classic and modern aesthetics. Thanks to today’s advanced printing techniques and high-quality materials, wallpaper has become more versatile and durable, no matter the climate. This allows me to create designs that cater to both traditional and contemporary interiors without worrying about limitations posed by temperature or humidity.”
Q : Are there any particular challenges you have to take into consideration when designing wallpaper in Australia?
A : Australia is a truly unique market for wallpaper design. The Australian interior design industry is often at the forefront of global trends, and I find it exciting to create for such a dynamic space. As a wallpaper designer, my challenge isn’t just to follow trends, but to innovate and bring new ideas to life while staying true to my signature style. What I love most is the incredible diversity Australia offers, from its landscapes to its architectural styles, providing endless inspiration for my designs.
Materials Board by Eunice Aubert
Q : How do Australian cultural preferences shape your design choices?
A : Bringing the outside in and drawing inspiration from Australia's rich and diverse natural landscape is a beautiful way to capture the essence of this country in wallpaper design. Australian designs are truly unique, much like our iconic flora and fauna, and it’s special to reflect that natural beauty in my work. Whether it's the bold hues of native plants or the intricate textures found in the environment, these elements help create wallpaper designs that feel authentically Australian.
Materials Board by Emma Stergoulis
Q : Do you find that you get more demand for wallpaper in Historical houses or are you starting to see a trend for it in the more modern homes?
A : Australian Victorian traditional homes have always been perfectly suited for wallpaper, embracing the elegance and charm that wallpaper brings to these character-filled spaces. Recently, however, I've noticed a surge in the use of wallpaper in modern, contemporary homes as well, with homeowners seeking unique designs that enhance their interiors. My Sanctuary Lines collection was specifically created to bridge this gap, blending the timeless appeal of traditional wallpaper with the sleek, textured designs that suit contemporary spaces. By introducing texture and dimension.
Materials Board by Eunice Aubert
Q : What are some current trends in wallpaper design that are unique to Australia?
A : The Australiana wallpaper designs immediately comes to mind when thinking of truly unique Australian wallpapers. By capturing the iconic motifs of our native flora and fauna, these designs embody the essence of Australia and reflect the country’s natural beauty, making it a perfect representation of what makes Australian wallpaper design so distinctive.
Materials Board by Emma Stergoulis
Q : How do you balance modern Australian design preferences with global trends, particularly those from Europe?
A : I closely research European and global trends, then distill them into my own interpretation of what I believe will resonate with the Australian market. While it’s important to stay informed about international design movements, I also feel strongly that Australia is carving out its own unique identity in the wallpaper world. We have the opportunity to create designs that stand apart from what's happening in Europe by developing our own distinct ‘wallpaper voice’—one that reflects the diversity and beauty of our local environment and lifestyle.
Q : Are there specific patterns, colours, or textures that resonate more with Australian clients?
A : I’ve noticed that my Australian Lines and Paradise Lines collections have been the most popular among my clients. These designs naturally complement Australian homes, blending effortlessly with our architectural styles and interior aesthetics. Interestingly, I’ve also had sales to Australians living abroad, who are looking to bring a touch of 'Australia' into their homes overseas. When it comes to colour palettes, neutral tones along with blues and greens tend to resonate the most with Australian consumers, reflecting both our coastal lifestyle and the calming influence of nature in design.
Materials Board by Eunice Aubert
Q : In Australia, there seems to be a trend toward using wallpaper for feature walls. Does this impact your approach to designing collections?
A : In my collections, I always aim to offer a variety of design scales to suit different spaces—whether for a striking feature wall or for covering entire rooms. Wallpaper can make a bold statement with a large, colourful print, creating a vibrant focal point, or it can subtly add texture and depth with a smaller, more intricate motif. Ultimately, the right choice depends on the space itself—its size, natural light, and overall style. I believe that thoughtful wallpaper design has the power to transform a room, no matter the scale.
Q : Sustainability and eco-friendly are really starting to be part of clients briefs - does this play a big part in your design practices?
A : Absolutely, I believe that prioritising eco-friendliness and sustainable manufacturing is crucial for brands today. That’s why I choose to manufacture on demand here in Australia and use eco-friendly, PVC-free wallpaper bases sourced from sustainably managed forests. Sustainability is a core value for me, and I’m committed to making it a priority in my business practices.
Q : Do global design trends, particularly from Europe, influence your work? Are there any specific European designers or movements that have inspired you?
A : I have a deep appreciation for European designs, particularly the traditional works of William Morris. His visionary approach, intricate details, and romantic style were incredibly influential in my early design days. I was captivated by the meticulous craftsmanship in each of his designs and the consistency of his distinctive style. Morris’s work has had a lasting impact on my own design philosophy and continues to inspire me.
Materials Board by Emma Stergoulis
Q : How do you see Australian design preferences will evolve, do you think we are becoming a bit more global or are we sticking to our Aussie roots?
A : Australian interior design is a trendsetter on the global stage, and in the crowded world of international wallpapers, indie boutique brands from Australia are increasingly recognised for their fresh and distinctive styles. My priority has always been to create a unique design identity that stands out and offers a point of difference. By focusing on originality and innovation, I aim to appeal to those seeking something truly unique and noteworthy in their interiors.
About Us
Emma Stergoulis is the Director of Emma Stergoulis Design. Based in Sydney Emma creates designs that honour the essence of you and your home's history. helping to preserve your home’s charm whilst infusing modern elegance and practical design. Born in the UK, starting school in the Caribbean and moving to Sydney in 2001 has given her a wide understanding of many cultures, and climates. Originally studying law and entering the corporate world she stepped off of the ladder to follow her creative dream in 2017.
Born in Brazil, Patricia had a transient childhood and lived in Germany and South Africa, but the last decade and a half has been happily spent in Sydney Australia, and most recently working from her studio in the beautiful coastal village of Nelson Bay. With roots in design and advertising,she realised a love for intricate hand illustration, a passion for interior textile & wallpaper design. Her designs are applied to various substrates and applications -including textiles and wallpapers, tiles, mosaics, screens, blinds, and rugs – serving the full spectrum of the interior industry from designers for luxury brands to architects, project managers and builders to DIY home renovators.
Eunice is the founder and Creative Director of EA Design . Having travelled extensively and living in numerous places including Hong Kong and Australia, these experiences have enhanced her deep appreciation for art, culture and the built environment. Coming from an art background, she’s always had an eye for design, which she actively started pursuing in 2016. Respectful of the architecture that was heralded before her, Eunice is skilled at creating environments that resonate with the era, yet tell the story of the people that occupy it now and into the future. She currently lives in North Wales with projects spanning across North Wales and other parts of the U.K.
