City Design: Wallpaper, Backsplash, Flooring, & More

A trend that 2020 never saw coming – suburbia. Cities are overpopulated, public transportation is filthy, and apartment prices are steeper than ever. It appears unaffordability teamed up with the COVID-19 pandemic causing many city-dwellers to relocate to the suburbs – and we don’t blame you.

Transitioning from the city to the suburbs will undoubtedly bring changes to your style of living, and with that we’re here to help. Moving to the suburbs doesn’t mean that you need to sacrifice your exposed brick wall for an unstimulating painted wall – and you certainly don’t need to give up your minimalist aesthetic. These décor pointers will help you bring the city design back into your life in no time.

1. Wallpaper

Red Brick

An accent wall of reclaimed brick wallpaper may be exactly what you need to bring that city feel back into your home. I mean really, what says city design more than an exposed brick wall? Choosing a red brick will bring an industrial look while filling the room with character.

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White Brick

Or, if you’re looking for a brighter option, opt for a textured white brick. This textured brick wallpaper is sure to create a loft-like space that delivers both brightness and minimalism.

This peel and stick wallpaper goes up in minutes and comes down in seconds making it perfect for even DIY beginners. It’s also safe on walls and damage free which makes it a highly desirable, non-permanent option.

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Skyline Pattern

For more of a blunt city design, utilize skyline wallpaper. The intricate NYC skyline pattern will truly make you feel like you never left the city.

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Paintables

For a more personalized city design, opt for paintable wallpaper. Paintables act as any other wallpaper but are heavily textured, allowing you to paint directly over the pattern. With this, you can still incorporate exposed brick or subway tile but you’ll get the chance to make it your own. Or – why not keep them white and embrace the thick texture in its original glory?

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2. Backsplash

Subway Tile

What better way to create an urban energy than to incorporate the attributes of the NYC Metro (minus the rats) right into your kitchen? This subway tiled inspired wallpaper is sleek and realistic. Or, try a peel and stick backsplash. Both options are easy, durable, and timeless.

According to Apartment Therapy, subway tiles were designed for New York City’s subway back in 1904 and their main intention was to maintain good hygiene because they clean with such ease –  how fitting to use during a pandemic.

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3. Floor Tiles

Tundra Tiles

Conceal your busy tiling by adding a simple grey flooring that will feed the soul of any true minimalist. Adding a contemporary interior design throughout will undoubtedly bring an urban energy – and these contemporary Tundra peel and stick tiles will do just the thing. Plus, peel and stick flooring is an easy way to make a drastic renovation.

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4. & More

Décor & Space Utilization

Now that you have a basic perception of what goes into an urban inspired home, take it to the next level by decorating like a true urbanite. Urban décor and space utilization revolve around minimalism.

City apartments are often small and require décor that is multipurpose. Incorporating the same minimalistic intentions in a Suburban home (with significant amounts of space) is also important in staying clutter-free.

Take this bike for example. Instead of storing it in your ever-so large garage, consider hanging it on the wall for both function and aesthetic. Double-dipping in décor and function will keep your home tidy and chaos-free.

Another way to incorporate urban minimalism is to make the best use out of every space without over cluttering. The small nooks of a home are often overlooked – but these are the perfect spots for a desk, coffee bar, reading corner, etc.

The use of the space in this staircase is minimalism to its core. Utilizing this small staircase nook as an office (that would otherwise be placed in a second bedroom) gives the option to open space in other areas of the house. When creating a similar space focus on aesthetics, simplicity, and most importantly – function.

In sum, moving to the suburbs does not mean you have to sacrifice your urban style living. Incorporating the 3 tips in this blog (and possibly adding minimalist décor) will revitalize your inner metropolitan flare in no time. Say hello to the suburbs, but don’t say goodbye to the city.