Interior Decorating - Chobam, Surrey

Hawkes Decor & Design redecorated the hallways, stairs and landing of a private home in Chobham, Surrey. The existing walls were tired and the client wanted a cleaner, more considered finish. Jane Clayton wallpaper was specified for the main wall areas, with painted surfaces prepared and finished to suit.

The brief

The client asked us to strip the old wallpaper, prepare every surface properly and hang the new Jane Clayton paper. The hallway, stairs and landing form one continuous space, so the brief also included repainting the woodwork and ceilings to give the whole area a fresh, even look.

Preparation

All existing wallpaper was removed and the walls were washed down to remove old paste residue. We filled cracks and dents, sanded back to a smooth surface and applied a coat of size to control suction before papering. Woodwork was cleaned, sanded and spot primed where bare timber showed through. Ceilings were checked for cracks and filled where needed.

The work

Wallpaper hanging

The Jane Clayton paper was hung with a butt joint and the pattern matched across every drop, including around the stairwell and landing. A ready-mixed adhesive suitable for the paper type was used, and each length was smoothed with a paperhanging brush to remove air bubbles and ensure a flat finish.

Painting

Woodwork was painted with a water-based satin finish in a colour chosen to work with the wallpaper. Two full coats were applied after priming, with a light sand between coats. Ceilings were rolled with a flat matt emulsion, cutting in around cornice and light fittings.

Stairwell access

The hallway and stairwell required a scaffold tower to reach the upper walls and ceiling safely. Drop sheets protected the floors and stair carpet throughout.

The result

The finished hallway, stairs and landing look clean and cohesive. The wallpaper is hung without visible seams or pattern breaks, and the painted woodwork gives a crisp edge against the paper. The client was pleased with the standard of finish and the way the space now feels brighter and more welcoming.