A mural has the power to completely transform a room. Unlike wallpaper or paint, it can transport you somewhere else entirely, creating a mood and sense of escapism that becomes woven into the fabric of an interior.
Murals bring spaces to life, introducing personality and narrative in a way that feels immersive and unexpected. Whether inspired by nature, folklore or contemporary art, they create an atmosphere that cannot be achieved through furnishings alone.
When choosing a mural, the most important consideration is not colour or scale, but the feeling it evokes. At the Kit Kemp Design Studio, we believe interiors should tell a story, and a mural is often the perfect place to begin. It might capture the essence of a favourite landscape, celebrate a beloved artist or simply reflect a mood that you want to live with every day.
The most successful murals work in harmony with the surrounding architecture. Sometimes they enhance a room’s proportions, while at other times they soften them. They can draw attention to soaring ceiling heights, add depth to a narrow space or create a striking focal point behind a bed or dining table.
Scale is another important consideration. Sweeping landscapes can be wonderfully theatrical, particularly in public spaces or rooms designed for entertaining. In the Drawing Room at The Soho Hotel, our Rufus design with Andrew Martin brings a sense of folk heritage to the space, creating an atmosphere that feels warm, welcoming and full of character.
In the Araminta Room at The Whitby Hotel, our Mythical Land wallpaper for Andrew Martin creates an enchanting world of imagination, offering guests a moment of escapism from the energy of Manhattan beyond.
While digital printing offers endless creative possibilities, there is something uniquely special about the human touch. In the Dora Carrington Room at Charlotte Street Hotel, artist Eliza Downes drew inspiration from the wallcovering fabric to create a richly layered hand-painted mural that unfolds across the ceiling above.
Hand-painted murals possess a depth and character that come directly from the artist’s hand. Every brushstroke introduces texture and movement, bringing the artwork to life. Drawing colours from the mural into surrounding fabrics, trims and accessories helps create a scheme that feels cohesive, thoughtful and connected.
What we love most about murals is their ability to surprise. They encourage people to pause, look closer and discover something new, whether in the smallest detail or across an expansive landscape.
The best murals do more than decorate a wall. They create a world of their own. A thoughtfully chosen mural brings individuality, character and a lasting sense of place, leaving an impression long after you have left the room.