York Wallcoverings managing director Ashley Vizzi Akridge and her family recently moved into a Federal-style Georgetown abode. H&D caught up with her there.

What are the hottest trends in wallpaper?
Large-scale murals and big prints are on the rise. It's a great time to be a maximalist! We’re also bringing nature indoors with botanical and floral prints and organic materials like wood, jute and grasses.

Current favorite wall covering and why?
I love grass cloth. It’s timeless and also helps with noise control. In my home, I feature grass cloth in teal, lavender, off-white and pale blue.

How do you accentuate texture and pattern?
Texture and pattern help create a mood—like textured neutrals and small-scale prints in a tranquil bedroom. A powder room with less natural light is an opportunity to go bold with large-scale patterns.

Rules of thumb for hanging art on wallpaper?
Hanging art on wallpaper can be very stressful because the nail holes are permanent. Be sure you absolutely love the artwork and the placement.

Unexpected space to enhance with wall covering?
The ceiling, which we call the fifth wall, is an under-utilized way to add dimension and personality. I have wall covering on my closet ceiling from Carlisle & Co.; the closet is a great place to start with this trend.