Selecting the perfect commercial wall murals for your office space is both an art and a science. By focusing on durability, aesthetics, and functionality, you can create a professional environment that enhances productivity and reflects the company’s brand ethos. Here’s how to transform those office walls into a canvas of creativity and professionalism!
Starting with Commercial Wallpaper: The Fundamentals
Office spaces typically endure more wear and tear than home environments. High-traffic areas need durable, long-lasting materials.
What vibe does your boss want to convey? Professional and sleek? Creative and vibrant? Calm and relaxing? Identifying this is the first step.
Commercial vs. Residential Wallpaper
Commercial wallpapers are designed for heavy use, often made from vinyl or fabric-backed vinyl. They’re resistant to wear, tear, and can handle frequent cleaning. Many commercial wallpapers comply with fire safety regulations, an essential consideration for public spaces.
While residential wallpapers like those we have at home focus more on personal taste and homey designs, commercial wallpapers are tailored to a variety of professional aesthetics — think subtle patterns, sophisticated textures, and even custom designs that promote branding.
Essential Considerations for Choosing Office Wallpaper
Durability and Maintenance
Vinyl is vital when it comes to versatility and vigor! Highly durable and easy to clean, making them ideal for high-traffic areas like hallways and lobbies.
Combines durability with a range of sophisticated textures and patterns. Perfect for executive offices or meeting rooms.
Office Aesthetic and Branding
Align wallpaper colors with the company’s branding.
If the brand logo is green and white, incorporating those colors into the walls subtly ties the space together.
Keep in mind! Blues and greens for a calming effect, reds and oranges for energy and creativity.
You may use textures to add dimension. Subtle patterns can add interest without overwhelming the senses. For example, A minimalistic geometric pattern can add a touch of modern elegance without being too distracting.
Functionality: Acoustic and Writable Surfaces
In open-office settings, acoustic wallpapers reduce noise and can make the space more conducive to concentration and productivity.
A wall you can write on? That’s a stroke of genius. Some wallpapers are designed to be writable and erasable, perfect for brainstorming areas or meeting rooms.
Peelable and Strippable Wallpapers
Choose options that can be easily removed or replaced without damaging the walls. This is especially useful if the office decor changes frequently.
Making the Selection: Just a Few Ideas
If you have a specific vision, many companies offer custom mural services. Provide them with high-resolution images of the desired scene and ensure it fits the wall dimensions. Confirm the image resolution is sufficient for a large format to avoid pixelation.
Plenty of ready-made options are available, ranging from subtle designs to dramatic landscapes. Ensure they align with your overall design goals and biophilic theme which is in trend right now.
Reception Area
Choose textured vinyl with a subtle metallic sheen. It’s durable, impressive, and creates a welcoming yet professional first impression. Or, try a welcoming mural that immediately conveys the natural theme. A forest path or garden scene works wonders.
Meeting Rooms
Writable wallcovering with a sophisticated print will go well. Why? It encourages creativity and collaboration while maintaining a polished look. On the other side, inspirational nature scenes like mountain ranges or serene lakes can stimulate creativity and provide a refreshing backdrop.
Open Office Space and Break Rooms
Here goes well some neutral-toned acoustic wallpaper. It is capable of reducing noise pollution, providing a calmer working environment without clashing with individual desk decor. You also may opt for calming water scenes or floral patterns, creating a relaxing space for employees.
Executive Offices
Think about fabric-backed vinyl in a rich, textured pattern. This option offers elegance and durability, reflecting the importance of the space.
Biophilic Design with Office Mural Wallpaper
This design philosophy aims to connect people more closely with nature, improving well-being, reducing stress, and boosting productivity. Incorporating natural elements like plants, water features, and nature-inspired decor can significantly enhance the workspace ambiance.
Decide where you want to place the mural wallpaper. Ideal spots include behind reception desks, in break rooms, meeting rooms, or any space where it can serve as a visual centerpiece.
Theme Selection
Choose murals that reflect nature — forests, mountains, waterfalls, floral patterns, or even underwater scenes. These not only provide visual relief but also enhance the biophilic ethos.
- Forest Scenes—dense green forests or tranquil groves bring a sense of calm and focus.
- Waterfalls and Rivers—flowing water scenes can evoke peace and dynamism.
- Floral and Botanical—lush floral murals or botanical gardens add vibrancy and color.
Naturally, greens dominate biophilic design. They reflect tranquility and life. Blues add a calming effect, akin to the sky and water. Accent these primary colors with earthy browns, soft whites, and occasional pops of floral hues.
Complement your mural with real plants. Green walls, potted plants, and hanging gardens can make the biophilic effect more immersive. Choose plants that thrive indoors and require minimal maintenance. Consider settings that allow natural light to amplify the greenery and mural’s aesthetic.
Evaluating Safety and Compliance Standards
Eco-Friendly and Safe Materials
Look for wallpapers made from natural fibers like cotton, jute, and paper. Eco-friendly options often carry certifications such as GREENGUARD or FSC (Forest Stewardship Council), ensuring the wood pulp is sourced sustainably.
While vinyl is durable, it’s usually not the best for eco-friendliness unless labeled as low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) and free of harmful additives like phthalates and heavy metals. When vinyl’s friends are eco-friendly, it’s a vinyl winyl!
Industry Safety Standards
VOC Emissions
Commercial wallpapers meet specific standards to ensure safety and sustainability. Look for VOCs are chemicals that emit as gasses from certain solids or liquids, potentially causing health issues. Low-VOC or No-VOC wallpapers are best to ensure indoor air quality. Try to review the product’s Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) or Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for VOC information.
Fire Safety Standards
When fire resistance is checked, you’ll never get burned out at work!
- Class A/B Fire Ratings: Check for wallpapers that meet Class A (best) or Class B fire rating standards in the United States. These ratings indicate the wallpaper’s ability to resist flame spread, essential for commercial spaces.
- NFPA 701: Look for wallpapers tested under the National Fire Protection Agency’s standard 701, which assesses the flammability of textiles and films used in public spaces.
Greenguard Certification
This certification ensures that a product has low chemical emissions, improving indoor air quality.
Opt for wallpapers contributing to LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) credits, promoting sustainable building practices. Ensure the wallpaper is free from phthalates that can be harmful and are banned in many regions for use in wall coverings.
Specific Regulations and Standards
US Regulations
- EPA Standards: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates indoor air quality and VOC emissions. Seek products complying with EPA standards for safer indoor environments.
- ASTM E84: This standard test method, also known as the “Steiner tunnel test,” evaluates the surface burning characteristics of building materials, ensuring they meet fire safety codes.
European Standards
- EN 13501-1: The European standard for fire classification of construction products and building elements. Aim for wallpapers achieving class B-s1, d0 or better (B-s1, d0 means low contribution to fire, low smoke production, and no dripping in case of fire).
- REACH Compliance: The EU’s regulation for the Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals ensures that wallpapers do not contain harmful substances.
Global Certifications
- Oeko-Tex Standard 100: Ensures products are tested for harmful substances. Look for this label on wallpapers.
- Blue Angel: A German certification for eco-friendly products, ensuring low emissions and environmentally friendly production.
Practical Tips for Application
- Professional Installation: Ensure a smooth, bubble-free application by hiring professionals. They’ll handle seams, patterns, and trimming adeptly.
- Measure Twice, Buy Once: Accurate measurements are crucial. Ensure you account for windows, doors, and any other features that may interrupt the wall space.
- Samples: Always order samples before making a final decision. Consider having a mock-up section in the office to visualize the final look.
- Consult with Experts: Work with a design consultant if needed, ensuring the chosen wallpaper aligns perfectly with the branding and functional needs.
- Maintenance Considerations: Choose murals that are easy to clean and maintain, ensuring they look fresh over time. Materials like vinyl are durable and wipeable.
Embracing biophilic design with thoughtful mural eco wallpaper will transform your office space into a sanctuary of productivity and well-being. The right mural makes a statement, inspires creativity, and fosters a connection with nature that benefits everyone in the workspace. Happy planning and designing, and may your office space bloom with the tranquility and beauty of nature!
