Designing Murals That Age Well: How to Avoid Trend Fatigue
Issue 02 Author: Victoria Robustello
The Bug Wall. Highland, NY, 2022 (Art by BLKBYRD, Lady Pink, SMITH, Matthew O’Connor and Echo Goff.
We’ve all seen it. That new thing that’s caught everyone’s interest. It intrigues you with its novelty and everyone’s loving it. Obsessed even. They have to have it. You start to see it everywhere and just when you finally get it—the world is over it. Sick of it, actually. Moved onto the next.
Fidget spinners, frozen yogurt, millennial grey? What ever happened to NFTs? And is Dubai Chocolate discounted yet? You guessed it—it’s a trend. And like all styles, interior spaces, including mural art, are no exception!
So our big question is this — how do we design a mural that can stand the test of time?
…and what do we look for when hiring an artist to ensure our mural stays relevant?
Rule 1: Hot Today, Cold Tomorrow
If you’ve start seeing it everywhere, run. For murals, this may look like abstract neutral blobs, graphic mountain silhouettes and line art faces, found all over Pinterest, easily replicated and easily forgotten. Timeless murals, on the other hand, often start with a concept before a style.
Rule 2: Classics
Stay
Classic
Think denim, a white tee and a red lip. In spaces, think hardwood floors and well-made furniture. Why do classics stay classic? As it turns out, we tire of the new things, not the old. Classics have already proven to stand the test of time. Odds are, they will continue to.
Rule 3: Authenticity Creates Lasting Impact
Original Designs Available by BLKBYRD.
This is a big one. Work rooted in an artist’s voice carries an intention and depth that people can feel. There is a difference between art that is uniquely expressed and art that is replicating what’s already out there. Authentic works builds emotional connection, which is what people remember and return for.
Why it matters? Art driven by personal vision evolves slowly and gains character over time. It often becomes even more meaningful as a space, community and brand grows around it.
When Hiring an Artist, ask yourself:
Does the artist’s portfolio feel original, or like something I’ve seen before?
What is special about this artist? How does their work resonate with me?
As a client, am I allowing room for originality in the concept?
Rule 4: Create Singular, Non-Replicable Work
Trendy art is easily copied. Original art born from genuine expression can’t be replicated without losing it's essence (think original brand vs. off-brand). That exclusivity adds both cultural and perceived financial value. And the result? A one-of-a-kind piece of art that you can be proud to have.
The Take Away:
When you buy trend-based art, it is an investment in short-term relevance. Buying from a fine artist, however is an investment in voice, longevity and identity.
About the Artist
Hi, I’m Blkbyrd. I specialize in bold, illustrative scrapbook-style murals. My art is custom-designed for spaces and communities. I bring structure, communication, and thoughtful design to every project. Whether it’s a small storefront or large public wall, my goal is always the same: create art that feels intentional, beautiful and is built to last.
