6.1 Introduction to wall hangings

A wall hanging is a decorative piece, usually made from textiles, fibres or mixed materials, that is hung on a wall to add colour, texture, pattern and meaning to an interior. Wall hangings include woven tapestries, macramé pieces, quilts, embroidered panels, printed fabrics, beadwork, basketry and mixed-media art. Unlike framed pictures, they are often soft and three-dimensional, so they also absorb sound and add warmth to hard spaces. In interior design they are used to create focal points, express culture and identity, soften rooms and tell stories. Example: a hotel lobby in a lakeside town features a large hand-woven sisal and wool hanging behind reception, showing local landscapes and absorbing echo in the high-ceilinged space.

6.1.1 Meaning and scope of wall hangings

Wall hangings cover a wide range of decorative wall pieces made by hand or machine using many techniques. The scope includes small personal pieces in homes and very large commissioned works in public buildings. Example: an artisans' cooperative produces both small macramé pieces for apartments and large woven panels for corporate offices.

Scope of wall hangings

• Textile hangings: Tapestries, quilts, appliqué, embroidery and printed fabric panels.
• Fibre art: Macramé, knotted, crocheted and knitted pieces.
• Natural material hangings: Basketry, woven grass, sisal, palm and bark cloth pieces.
• Beadwork and embellished pieces: Beaded panels, shell and seed work.
• Mixed-media hangings: Combinations of fabric, wood, metal, clay and found objects.
• Functional hangings: Acoustic panels, room dividers and storage organisers with decorative value.

6.1.2 Importance of wall hangings in interiors

Wall hangings serve decorative, practical and cultural purposes. Understanding their importance helps designers use them deliberately rather than as afterthoughts. Example: a designer for a children's hospital ward uses colourful fabric hangings with animal motifs to make the space feel friendly and reduce noise.

Importance

• Decoration and focal points: Add colour, pattern and interest to plain walls.
• Texture and warmth: Soft materials balance hard surfaces such as concrete, glass and tiles.
• Sound absorption: Textile and fibre pieces reduce echo and noise.
• Cultural expression: Show heritage, traditions and local crafts.
• Personalisation and storytelling: Reflect the client's identity, history or brand.
• Concealing defects: Hide cracks, stains or unattractive features.
• Supporting local artisans: Commissioning hangings creates income for craftspeople.

6.1.3 Places where wall hangings are used

Wall hangings suit many types of spaces, each with its own requirements for size, durability and theme. Example: a county assembly's reception displays a large woven hanging showing the county's landmarks to welcome visitors.

6.1.4 Factors to consider when choosing wall hangings

Choosing a suitable wall hanging requires balancing appearance, function and practical limits. Example: a designer for a coastal resort avoids natural fibre hangings in humid open areas because they could grow mould.

Factors

• Size and scale: The hanging should suit the wall and nearby furniture.
• Theme and style: Colours, motifs and materials should match the interior concept.
• Location and environment: Humidity, sunlight and dust affect durability.
• Purpose: Decide whether the hanging is decorative, acoustic or functional.
• Weight and mounting: The wall must support the hanging safely.
• Maintenance: Consider how the hanging will be cleaned and how often.
• Budget: Balance cost of commissioning, materials and installation.
• Safety: Avoid flammable materials near heat sources and loose parts in children's spaces.

6.1.5 Care of wall hangings

Wall hangings need regular care to keep them clean and in good condition. The method depends on the materials used. Example: housekeeping at a conference centre vacuums its textile hangings monthly using a low-suction brush attachment.

Care practices

• Regular dusting: Use a soft brush or vacuum with a brush attachment on low suction.
• Avoid direct sunlight: Prevent fading by placing hangings away from strong sun or using UV-filtering glass.
• Control humidity: Keep pieces dry to prevent mould and insect damage.
• Rotate or rest pieces: Rotate hangings occasionally to spread wear and light exposure.
• Spot-clean carefully: Test cleaning methods on a hidden area first.
• Professional cleaning: Send valuable or delicate pieces to specialist cleaners.

Worked example: sizing and placing a wall hanging

Hanging width ≈ furniture width × 2/3

Height of hanging centre ≈ 1,450 to 1,500 mm above the floor (average eye level)

A sofa is 2,100 mm wide.

Hanging width ≈ 2,100 × 2/3 = 1,400 mm

A hanging about 1,400 mm wide, with its centre about 1,500 mm above the floor, will look balanced above the sofa.