The Third Dimension of Wall Finishing

Texture and pattern are taking on a more prominent role in interior design

After years in which sleek, white walls dominated, interest is growing in interiors with more depth, texture, and character. According to NOËL & MARQUET, this is not a fleeting shift in style, but a trend that offers designers more opportunities to make surfaces an active part of an interior. This concept forms the basis of the new collection, *The Harmony of Lines*, which the Belgian manufacturer showcased at Architect@Work Rotterdam.

“Architect@Work is really all about innovation,” says Head of Marketing Stephan Offermann. “Visitors can quickly get acquainted with new developments there, which is why we’re bringing only our latest collection. Plus, we get to meet exactly the people for whom we develop our products: interior designers, architects, and students who will soon be entering the profession.”

According to Offermann, the trade show is more than just a place to showcase products. “You can immediately see which themes designers are exploring and which solutions resonate with them. That makes Architect@Work a very valuable platform for us.”

Decor is making a comeback

According to the company, the new collection reflects a shift that has become increasingly apparent in recent years. “We’re seeing that strict minimalism is slowly giving way to interiors with more warmth and personality,” says Offermann. “People are once again daring to incorporate more decoration—not just with color, but also with texture. It doesn’t have to be extravagant at all; in fact, subtle textures can give a space much more depth.”

NOËL & MARQUET sees this trend reflected in the way architects and interior designers incorporate decorative elements. Wall panels are no longer used exclusively as accent walls but are also finding their way onto ceilings, doors, custom furniture, and cabinets. As a result, the role of decorative finishes is shifting to become an integral part of interior design.

“Paint and wallpaper remain essentially two-dimensional,” says Offermann. “Our panels add an extra, three-dimensional layer to that. Because they can be painted over, you can combine texture and color. This allows for a great deal of design freedom, whether you opt for a very understated interior or, on the other hand, a bold design.”

New Foundation

With “The Harmony of Lines,” NOËL & MARQUET introduces ten new wall panels featuring a variety of linear patterns, ranging from clean vertical rhythms and pleated structures to softer, organic forms. In addition, the collection includes new functional profiles, including solutions for indirect LED lighting.

Another new feature is the choice of materials. For the first time, the company is using high-density polystyrene (HDPS) for part of the collection. This results in thinner panels that remain both rigid and robust. According to Offermann, this simplifies processing without compromising the finish or application possibilities.

More Than Just a Trend

Although the current interest in decorative wall finishes is clearly evident, NOËL & MARQUET does not want to be guided by fleeting interior design trends. “We strive to develop collections that remain relevant over the long term. That’s why we’re always seeking a balance between timeless designs and the needs we see in the market today.”

For the manufacturer, the Netherlands is an important market in this regard. “We strongly believe in these products and showed architects and interior designers at Architect@Work what you can do with decorative elements. They are no longer just a finishing touch—they can truly contribute to the overall design.”