The amazing history of wallpaper!

Have you wondered how wallpaper came about? It has an amazing history behind it. From ancient civilizations to hand-created works of art, from the advent of the printing press through today’s 3-D printing technology, societies have been adorning their living and working spaces with the application of beautiful wallcoverings. Today’s wallpaper represents a rich history of artisans and designers and a proud heritage of tradition around the world.

From China to Europe  

The first recorded use of wallpaper was in China in 200 B.C., when the Chinese first glued rice paper to walls. In the eighth century, techniques of applying patterned linen fabric to walls spread to the Middle East and eventually made their way to Europe. France latched onto the wallpaper craze while creating official patterns for monarchs similar to the rich tapestries of the time. Prior to the discovery of the printing press, only the very-wealthy could afford to commission artisans to create hand-painted, stenciled or block-print patterns for their walls.

Wallpaper Comes to America

The first known use of wallpaper was in Philadelphia in 1739.  Early styles followed European trends, including a craze for panoramic sceneries and flower motifs. These early murals were designed to be hung above. By 1900, wallpaper was arguably the most popular household decorating technique in the United States. During this period, producing patterns that appealed to a variety of period décor styles and even commissioning famous artists of the time to create signature patterns.

Modern History and Beyond

World War II put a serious dent in the wallpaper industry, as it was classified a nonessential commodity. Once the war was over however, wallpaper rebounded with a vengeance. In the mid-20th century, modern consumers took to solid papers, eschewing the ornate patterns popular before the war. Grasscloth and other plain textures gained popularity and vinyl wall coverings made their first appearance. Today, designers flock to wallcoverings for new and exciting vibes. Modern printing technology provides a virtually limitless array of choices in pattern, texture and materials.

Goodrich Global offers over 20,000 patterns, designs and colours celebrating every style.  Over the 36 years of being in the business of wallpaper and wallcovering, we have covered walls of global chain hotels, residences, show flats, offices, institutions and commercial spaces.   Our experienced Gallery Representatives can help you find the perfect wallpaper for your home, whatever your preferred décor choice. Choose a pattern that celebrates the history of wallpaper and your own unique style.

For more details of the product, please contact: 

Goodrich Global (Headquarters)

Marketing Department | Goodrich Building | 8 Changi South Lane, #05-01| Singapore 486113 | T: 6787 8787 | F: 6788 7733 | E: info@goodrichglobal.com | Mon to Fri: 9am to 6pm | Closed on Public Holidays

For Media Enquiries

Ms. Jean Leong | Head of Marketing

T: 6586 8763 | F: 6304 7236 | E: jean.leong@goodrichglobal.com.sg

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About Goodrich Global

Goodrich Global provides the perfect finishing touch to every interior.  It offers an extensive collection of interior wallcoverings, carpets, fabrics and floorings to create a completely personalized furnished ambience.  Goodrich believes in ensuring that every dream design comes to life.  Above all else, Goodrich is driven by the vision that every living space is an expression of a unique cover story. Goodrich boasts a strong presence in over 40 regional offices and galleries located in 11 countries including Singapore (Headquarters), China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Myanmar, Philipines, Vietnam and United Arab Emirates. Goodrich is well placed to meet all your interior furnishing needs, globally.