Last Updated on August 28, 2023 by Kimberly Crawford
Orange peel texture is a specific type of wall finish named for its resemblance to the slightly bumpy surface of a citrus fruit. This texture is created by spraying a mixture of drywall compound and water onto the walls, and then letting it dry without smoothing it out.
It’s known for its ability to add visual interest to a room while also hiding minor imperfections in the drywall.
However, as with any design trend, tastes evolve over time. In this article, we’ll explore the question: Is orange peel texture outdated?
We’ll delve into its history, compare it to current trends, weigh its pros and cons, gather expert opinions, and consider consumer preferences.
By the end of this discussion, we aim to provide a comprehensive answer to whether this once-popular wall texture has stood the test of time or if it’s time to move on to more contemporary options.
History of Orange Peel Texture
The history of orange peel texture is rooted in residential construction, particularly in the southwestern United States during the 1980s. This texture was named for its resemblance to the skin or peel of an orange.
The use of this texture gained popularity because it added depth to walls and effectively hid imperfections.
In terms of its use in different decades, the orange peel texture was a favorite alternative to a smooth finish in Florida. However, it’s worth noting that by today’s standards, some consider the orange peel texture ‘dated’.
For instance, in a discussion on Houzz, one user mentioned that if you have a house from the 1970s with orange peel texture, it’s considered in good shape, but most homes from that decade used a knockdown finish, which had more of a stucco look.
Overall, while the orange peel texture was indeed popular in the past, current opinions vary, with some considering it outdated and others still appreciating its ability to add depth and hide wall imperfections.
Current Trends in Wall Textures
Today, there are numerous wall texture types that have gained popularity. The orange peel design continues to be a common wall texture due to its ease of application and affordability.
Its versatility is also a factor in its popularity; it can be used to create various looks.
However, other textures have emerged as trendsetters in contemporary home decor. The knockdown texture, for instance, is quickly gaining popularity. This textured look gives walls a subtle depth, making it a favorite among homeowners looking for a more rustic aesthetic.
Another popular texture is the spray sand texture, which offers a fine, granular look that adds a unique touch to any room. Comb texture, sand swirl, skip trowel, and slap brush are also among the popular choices.
While each of these textures has its unique appeal, they all share a common purpose with the orange peel texture – to add visual interest to the walls and mask imperfections. However, they differ in terms of the specific aesthetic they offer.
For example, while orange peel provides a subtly bumpy finish, a knockdown texture gives a more rustic, flattened look.
Pros and Cons of Orange Peel Texture
Like any design choice, the orange peel texture has its own set of advantages and disadvantages that can influence a homeowner’s decision to use it.
Advantages of Orange Peel Texture
- Hides Imperfections: One of the main reasons for the popularity of the orange peel texture is its ability to hide imperfections in the drywall. It can mask small dents, bumps, or cracks, making the walls look more uniform.
- Easy to Apply: Compared to some other wall textures, the orange peel texture is relatively easy to apply. It requires a mix of drywall compound and water, which is sprayed onto the wall.
- Cost-Effective: This type of texture is rather cost-effective compared to some other wall treatments. The materials are inexpensive, and the application process is quicker than many other textures.
Disadvantages of Orange Peel Texture
- Difficult to Clean: One drawback of the orange peel texture is that it can be challenging to clean. The bumpy surface can trap dust and grime, making it harder to wipe down.
- Outdated Look: While this point is subjective and depends on personal taste, some people consider the orange peel texture to be outdated. As home design trends evolve, smoother wall finishes or other textures might be more desirable.
- Hard to Repair: Although it’s easy to apply, the orange peel texture can be difficult to repair. Matching the existing texture can be tricky if a section of the wall gets damaged.
Quotes and Insights from Interior Designers and Architects about Orange Peel Texture
While direct quotes from interior designers and architects about orange peel texture are not readily available, there are some insights that can be inferred from the sources found.
One discussion on Houzz suggests that builders often use textures like orange peel in contemporary designs. This implies that professionals in the field do not necessarily see it as outdated, but rather as a versatile option that can fit within various design aesthetics.
Wildfire Interiors mentions that wall textures can vary depending on the location, and in their area, a bumpy texture like orange peel is commonly used. This suggests that regional preferences play a significant role in the choice of wall textures.
A post on The Home Depot Community suggests changing the wall texture from orange peel to skip trowel or imperfect smooth. This indicates that while some may prefer the orange peel texture, others may opt for different textures based on their specific design preferences.
Analysis of Whether Experts Consider It Outdated
The perception of whether orange peel texture is considered outdated appears to vary. While some might consider it a classic option due to its ability to hide wall imperfections and add depth, others might see it as less modern compared to smoother wall finishes or alternative textures.
On the other hand, Remarkable Coating recommends avoiding “orange peel walls” when applying whiteboard paint due to their rough texture. This suggests that for certain applications, smoother wall finishes are preferred.
Consumer Preferences
Based on the search results, it’s clear that homeowners have a wide range of preferences when it comes to wall textures.
Some people prefer textured paint for rooms where they want the walls to tell a story, as suggested by Lisa Rickert, the co-founder and principal designer at Jolie Home. This can create a one-of-a-kind look, adding visual appeal and depth to a space.
Some homeowners consider sand texture to be the most practical choice. It’s easy to touch up spots or replicate when remodeling, and it requires less labor than other options.
Other popular choices include stone, wallpaper, 3D wall paneling, and natural wood, all of which can add dimension to a space. There are also some homeowners who prefer to apply wall texture themselves to save money.
Orange Peel Texture Considered Outdated?
The perception of whether orange peel texture is considered outdated among homeowners seems to vary.
While some might see it as a classic option due to its ability to hide wall imperfections, others might consider it less modern compared to smoother wall finishes or alternative textures.
Alternatives to Orange Peel Texture
There are several alternatives to orange peel texture that homeowners can consider when deciding on the finish for their walls.
Description of Other Wall Texture Options
- Comb Texture: This texture is created using a toothed trowel to create patterns such as arcs, swirls, or waves on the wall.
- Popcorn Texture: Often used on ceilings, this texture has a heavy, bumpy look. It’s great for sound dampening and hiding imperfections.
- Knockdown Texture: This texture involves applying joint compound (also known as mud) to the wall in patches, then smoothing it out to create a subtle, mottled texture.
- Sand Swirl Texture: This involves applying a layer of sand-textured paint onto the wall and using a brush to create a swirling pattern.
- Slap Brush Texture: Also known as a crow’s foot texture, this technique involves dipping a brush with stiff bristles into the drywall mud, pressing it against the wall, and then twisting it slightly.
- Venetian Texture: A smooth and glossy texture, it involves applying several layers of plaster and then burnishing them to a shine.
Comparison with Orange Peel Texture
Aesthetics: Comb texture can give a room an artistic flair, while popcorn texture offers a more rustic feel. Knockdown texture provides a subtle, sophisticated look, while sand swirl and slap brush textures have a more decorative appeal. Venetian texture imparts a high-end, polished look.
Functionality: Like orange peel, popcorn and knockdown textures are good at hiding wall imperfections. Comb, sand swirl, and slap brush textures require a bit more skill to apply but can add a unique touch to a space. Venetian texture, while smooth, requires multiple layers and can be time-consuming to apply.
Trendiness: While orange peel texture might be seen as outdated by some, these other textures also have varying degrees of popularity. For instance, popcorn texture is often seen as outdated but is still used for its practical benefits. On the other hand, knockdown and Venetian textures are considered more modern and trendy.
Final Verdict on Whether Orange Peel Texture is Considered Outdated
Based on the information gathered, it can be concluded that whether orange peel texture is considered outdated or not largely depends on individual aesthetic preferences and the specific design context. While some may see it as less modern compared to other options, others might find its ability to hide wall imperfections and add depth to a space appealing.
As with any design choice, the best approach is to consider the specific needs, style preferences, and practical considerations of the space before making a decision.
