Frequently Asked Questions

What is a mural?

A mural is any large piece of artwork painted, tiled or applied directly onto a permanent wall, ceiling or other architectural surface.

What is a mural artist?

A mural artist (or muralist) is a visual creator who paints, draws or applies artwork directly onto large permanent surfaces such as walls, ceilings and architectural structures. Richard Bagguley is an internationally recognized mural and trompe l’oeil artist based in London.

Why do people commission murals?

A wall mural turns a plain surface into a focal point, adding character, atmosphere and a sense of place. People commission murals to personalize a home, make small rooms feel larger, tell a story or build a brand for a business, brighten public spaces and add one-of-a-kind artwork that wallpaper cannot match.

What is the best way to paint a wall mural?

The best way to paint a wall mural is to prepare the surface properly, transfer the design using a grid or projector, block in the large colour shapes first, and finish with fine detail and a protective coat. Richard’s process begins with a discussion of your ideas, followed by a free scaled sketch and quotation.

What paint do you use for wall murals?

Most murals are painted in acrylics, either artist-quality acrylic paint or good-quality emulsion, because they dry quickly, bond well to walls and stay flexible. Interior walls need a matt or satin base coat first. Outdoor murals need weather-resistant masonry paint, UV-resistant pigments and a protective topcoat to cope with sun, rain and frost.

Do you need planning permission for a mural?

Often not for an interior mural, but exterior murals depend on the building and the artwork. You may need consent if the property is a listed building, sits in a conservation area, faces a public road or space, or if the mural works as an advertisement. Rules vary across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, so check with your local planning authority before painting.

How long does it take to paint a mural?

A simple feature wall can take two to five days, while detailed or large-scale murals can take several weeks, or more. Time depends on the size of the wall, the level of detail, the number of paint layers, drying times and the condition of the surface. You will be given a timeline when you receive your quotation

How much do mural artists charge in the UK, and how much does a mural cost in 2026?

In the UK, mural artists typically charge between £120 and £300 + per square metre, or day rates averaging £250 to £350, depending on experience and the complexity of the design. In 2026, a custom, professionally hand-painted mural generally ranges from £800 to £5,000 for standard projects, while very large commercial walls can exceed £13,000. Richard provides a free scaled sketch and quotation for every project.

What is trompe l’oeil, and what does it mean?

Trompe l’oeil is a painting technique that creates a realistic optical illusion, making flat painted images look three-dimensional. The French phrase literally means “deceive the eye”. An artist might paint a window onto a blank wall, a bookcase, a stone archway or a garden view that looks real from a distance.

What techniques are used in trompe l’oeil painting?

Trompe l’oeil uses photorealistic painting, lighting and perspective to make flat surfaces appear three-dimensional. Key techniques include:

• Linear perspective to create depth
• Highlights and cast shadows that match the room’s real light source
• Precise colour and tone to imitate stone, wood, marble or fabric
• Layered glazing and fine detail for realism
• Choosing the viewpoint so the illusion works from where people normally stand

What are some famous examples of trompe l’oeil?

Famous trompe l’oeil examples include Pompeii’s painted wall scenes, Mantegna’s oculus in Mantua’s Camera degli Sposi, Pozzo’s false dome at Sant’Ignazio in Rome, and the ancient tale of Zeuxis and Parrhasius’s painted grapes.

What is chinoiserie, and what is chinoiserie style art?

Chinoiserie is a European decorative style, popular from the 17th and 18th centuries, inspired by Chinese and East Asian art. It is known for delicate hand-painted scenes of birds, blossoms, pagodas, landscapes and figures, often on silk, wallpaper, lacquer or walls. Today it is used in murals, wall panels, furniture and interiors for an elegant, timeless look.

Is chinoiserie expensive?

Hand-painted chinoiserie is a premium, bespoke product, so it usually costs more than printed wallpaper or standard decorating. The price depends on the size of the area, the intricacy of the design, the background (such as silver leaf, metallic or silk-effect grounds) and the artist’s time. A custom chinoiserie mural is quoted individually, often with a sample first.

Is chinoiserie still trending?

Chinoiserie remains popular in traditional and contemporary interiors and is widely regarded as a lasting style rather than a passing trend. Designers keep reinventing it with fresh colourways, modern palettes and simplified patterns. Hand-painted chinoiserie suits dining rooms, hallways, bedrooms and powder rooms.

What is a faux finish on a wall?

A faux finish is a decorative paint technique that imitates another material or texture, such as marble, stone, wood, aged plaster, leather or metal. It is created with layers of glazes, tinted plasters and specialist tools. Richard also works with gold leaf, silver leaf and polished plaster.

How much does it cost to faux finish a wall?

Faux finishing usually costs more than ordinary painting because it needs multiple coats, skilled hand application and drying time between layers. Cost depends on the technique (marbling and polished plaster are more labour-intensive than a simple glaze), the size of the wall and the surface preparation.

Is faux painting walls still in style?

Yes, but the style has moved on. Heavy 1990s effects such as sponging and ragging look dated, while subtle, refined finishes are in demand, including polished plaster, limewash, Venetian plaster, marble effects and aged patinas. Done well, a faux finish adds depth, texture and a luxurious feel to modern homes.

Request a Personalized Quote

To discuss a mural, trompe l’oeil, chinoiserie or specialist finish for your home or business, contact Richard Bagguley with your wall size, location and ideas, and receive a free scaled sketch and quotation.

Does Richard offer a free quote?

Yes, Richard offers a free, no-obligation quote for your mural painting project. 

Can a mural be painted off-site and fitted to my wall?

Yes, depending on the dimensions, a mural can be painted in the studio on synthetic canvas and transported to the site.

Does Richard work outside London?

Yes, Richard undertakes mural painting projects nationally across the UK and internationally. 

What types of property and project does Richard work on?

Richard mainly works on high-end residential properties, as well as commercial spaces, shops, restaurants, and hotels

Does Richard work with interior designers and architects?

Yes, with many interior designers and architects, and enjoys creative collaborations.