Hallway panelling ideas won't just give your hallway a new look, but can also be a practical solution in a busy space.
With a constant flow of people, pets, bags, shoes, coats and deliveries all passing through your hallway, it's not unusual for your walls to bear the brunt of a busy lifestyle. As a result, covering them with panelling can provide a little more protection than perhaps paint or wallpaper.
From contemporary finishes through to traditional tongue and groove, there's a host of wall panelling ideas to choose for your hallway design and we've rounded up 24 of our favourites, so you can cover your walls in a solution that suits you, your home and your interior style.
1. Use a bold colour on your tongue and groove panelling
The simplicity of tongue and groove panelling makes it a suitable addition to lots of different hallway ideas. But, if you fancy giving your existing panelling an update, refreshing it in a bolder shade, such as this Flower Pot from Earthborn is a great option.
Paint your skirting the same shade to make touch ups nice and easy, and make sure you choose the right paint for wood to get a practical and hardwearing finish.
2. Contrast curves with horizontal and vertical strips for a designer finish
If your hallway is more designer than dumping ground, make sure you draw the eye to the level of thought and detail that has gone into making it an entrance to remember.
Curves and arches are a great way of creating a hallway that can't fail to catch your attention, and while painting the walls in different colours works, don't assume that curved walls aren't suitable for panelling.
Here, vertical and horizontal panelled strips in various different sizes add the texture and detail that plain walls would lack.
3. Traditional tongue and groove cladding will give a 'country' look
If you're seeking a cosy, rustic aesthetic feel, tongue and groove cladding might be the perfect choice for transforming your hallway into a countryside-inspired space. This style of panelling, often associated with cottages and country homes, adds warmth and texture to what can sometimes be a purely functional area. What's more, tongue and grove can be used to conceal an otherwise patchy or textured wall beneath.
To enhance the country feel, consider pairing this type of wall panelling with natural wood finishes or soft, muted shades of paint like sage green or off-white. Opt for a satin or gloss finish paint and moisture-resistant woods, such as oak or pine, as these not only add durability but also ensure your panelling withstands the wear and tear of high-traffic areas like hallways.
4. Colour drench your panelling, skirtings, radiators and furniture
If your hallway panelling ideas involve the whole wall, rather than half the wall, use the interior designer trick of colour drenching everything on that wall to make the space feel bigger.
Unlike colour capping which sees tonal shades used from top to bottom, colour drenching involves using one shade throughout. You can still add some visual interest by using different types of paint, for example gloss on skirting boards and matt on the wall panels, but the overall finish should be sophisticated and seamless.
5. Use half-wall panelling to add dimension
"If it's a pared back look you are after, consider going for half height panelling," says Charlie Farrar, creative product manager at Naturewall. "Whether that be tongue and groove or a reeded profile that can be painted a neutral colour slightly darker than the wall above."
By vertically breaking your hallway into two distinct sections, you can play with different colours and textures to make your space feel more dynamic. Plus, half-wall panelling is practical, too. The panels protect the lower half of the wall from scuffs and marks, perfect for entryways where guests may be shedding raincoats and little ones can kick off muddy boots.
Charlies is the creative product manager at Naturewall, a company that aims to empower home renovators to create inspired interiors with high-quality, easy to install wall panels in a wide variety of styles and finishes.
6. Add pegs or hooks to your panels to hang coats and bags
"Coat hooks or rails can be added discreetly to wall panels for a clean, organised look," explains Jessica Davis, founder of LL Company. These clever additions keep the hallway clutter-free while also turning everyday items into part of your décor.
For a more tailored look, consider positioning the hooks within the panelled sections for a built-in feel. Not only does this make everyday items easy to access, but it also helps turn those items – like colourful coats or patterned bags – into a part of the design. This small but impactful detail works especially well in busy households where keeping the hallway tidy is key. Plus, it’s a great way to maximise wall space in narrower hallways, ensuring everything has a place without adding bulky furniture.
Shop hooks for your hallway panelled walls
These easy-to-install wall hooks can be added to your hallway wall panelling to hang and organise all kinds of bags, coats, hats, and scarves.
Add pops of colour to your hallway with these wooden block wall hooks
Hang more than one item with this simple black wall rack featuring double hooks
Jessica, founder of LL Company, has 19 years of design experience and specialises in transforming spaces with wall panelling. Her expert knowledge helps homeowners choose the right styles and materials for beautiful, functional interiors.
7. Use fluted wall panelling in an open plan entrance
If your hallway leads straight into an open plan living room layout, you may not have clear dividing walls and doors between the spaces. Instead choosing to zone with feature wall ideas, where you play with shapes and curves to create visual dividers.
But, don't let this put you off considering a more practical finish for your walls. Here, thin fluted wall panelling in soft cream shows off the curved wall to its best advantage, and provides some protection from people passing by.
Add a visible storage seat following the same curved shape and it's the ideal spot for stopping, changing shoes and then transitioning into the rest of your home.
8. Or conceal built-in storage within your panelling
Maximising storage without sacrificing style can be a challenge, especially in smaller hallways. One smart solution? Conceal built-in storage within your panelling. Hidden cabinets or drawers within the panelling allow you to tuck away everyday items, all while maintaining a clean, streamlined look.
As Jessica Davis explains, “panelling can cleverly double as functional hallway storage. Consider integrated cabinetry or hidden compartments within the lower panels –particularly useful in smaller hallways where space is at a premium.”
In the example above, vertical slatted walnut panelling adds visual texture while cleverly concealing a built-in bench with storage underneath. This seamless design offers both a stylish seating area and a practical storage solution.
9. Try DIY beadboard panelling for an affordable transformation
Looking to transform your hallway on a budget? DIY beadboard panelling is an easy and affordable option. Its distinctive vertical grooves add instant character to a space, making it a great choice for smaller hallways where you want to make an impact without overwhelming the room.
To get started, you can find beadboard panels at most DIY stores – try B&Q or Cut My. They often come in pre-cut sheets that make DIY wall panelling easier to handle. All you need is adhesive, a saw for trimming, and paint to match your scheme.
Beadboard works well with a range of looks: paint it in crisp white for a coastal feel or try muted tones or soft greys for a more contemporary aesthetic. It’s also a great fit for traditional country-style homes. Just make sure to apply a protective finish, especially in high-traffic areas like hallways, to keep it looking fresh for longer.
10. Opt for wainscoting to transform a plain hallway
"Traditional wall panelling ideas have been making a strong comeback, with its timeless aesthetic making it a classic choice for homes," explains Charlie Farrar.
"Bringing in subtle detail, wainscotting panelling adds a touch of elegance to a room, injecting interest to flat walls. These traditional styles are on trend due to their ability to work in a range of interiors, as they can be painted any colour to match your hallway scheme.
"For those wanting maximum effect, full height wainscotting in a dark or bold colour creates the wow factor on entry to a home," adds Charlie. "Taking this panelling to the ceiling in a hallway is also a great way of making the space look bigger."
11. Or embrace a timeless shaker style wall panel
For a look that stands the test of time, you can’t go wrong with Shaker-style wall panelling. Known for its clean lines and classic design, Shaker panelling brings understated elegance to any hallway scheme. Its simple square frames add structure without feeling too busy, making it an excellent option for both modern and traditional style homes.
To recreate the look above, consider pairing Shaker-style panelling with bold, rich paint colours. Shades like navy, charcoal, or even forest green give the panelling a moody and timeless yet feel. Similarly, pairing dark Shaker panelling with whimsical patterned wallpaper creates a striking contrast that’s both playful and sophisticated.
"Try Experimenting with paint finishes too, such as matte or high gloss, to give standard panelling a more personal feel," suggests Jessica Davis.
In terms of the best to use on hallway panels, she recommends using Mylands Wood & Metal Paint which are good for both interior and exterior and come in three different finishes: Matt, Eggshell or Gloss.
Why not give DIY Shaker wall panelling a go yourself? This MDF kit covers approximately 1.2msq and is easy to fix to your wall with glue, nails or screws.
12. Blend your doors into your panels to create a 'hidden door'
Who can resist the lure of a hidden door? Blending your hallway doors into the surrounding wall panelling creates an uninterrupted look that brings an air of sophistication and mystery to the space. By matching the colour and style of the door to your choice of panelling, you can make the door almost disappear.
In this example, the door is cleverly concealed by matching moulding and a uniform paint finish. Subtle detailing and a neutral colour palette keep the look feeling timeless and elegant, while the hidden door adds a playful element of surprise.
13. Integrate lighting into your designs
Hallway lighting is one of the easiest ways to enhance your panelling, instantly adding ambience while providing practical task lighting to guide the way.
"Adding LED strip lighting behind or within the panels can create a dramatic, illuminated effect that’s both functional and visually striking," says Jessica Davis. By integrating lighting into your panelling design, you can also highlight the texture and detail of the panels.
For a subtle, modern touch, try placing LED strips behind the edges of the panels to softly illuminate the walls. For a bolder look, consider recessed lighting within the panels themselves, which can cast light directly onto the floor or accent specific features for a striking visual effect.
Each of these LUSTRE LED Kits includes adhesive LED tape, a black aluminium profile with diffuser, an LED driver, power adapter, and all necessary fittings for easy installation.
14. Add unique texture to your hallway panels
Want to elevate your hallway beyond the ordinary? Consider experimenting with textures and the direction of your wall panels.
"Panels with fluted or ribbed surfaces add depth and interest, making the hallway feel tactile and rich," explains Jessica Davis. "Don't shy away from mixing different panel heights or combining styles to create an unexpected but cohesive look."
In this example, the combination of vertical and horizontal panelling creates a truly bespoke, textured finish. While this combination of directions could feel too busy, the soft, neutral tones keep the look feeling understated – adding interest while maintaining a clean, minimalist style.
15. Opt for low wall panelling to subtly add character
If you're looking for a subtle way to add interest to your hallway without overwhelming the space, opt for low wall panelling. These shorter panels offer just enough structure and visual detail while keeping the upper part of the wall open for bold colours, artwork, or other design features.
In this hallway design, the low panelling is painted a soft, neutral white, providing a crisp contrast against the deeper wall colour above. The height of the panelling allows the space to feel open and airy, while still offering a little texture and dimension.
16. Don't shy away from asymmetrical or geometric designs
"Break away from symmetry by creating asymmetrical panelling layouts," recommends Jessica Davis. "Vary the size or positioning of panels to add an element of surprise and uniqueness to your hallway.
"Instead of traditional vertical or horizontal panels, consider diagonal or patterned designs for a modern edge, and play with scale and pattern to create something that feels distinct," she suggests.
"Whether it’s oversized panels or a mix of textures that reflect your personality, choosing the right style of wall panelling depends on several factors," says Jessica. "First, consider the overall aesthetic of your home – is it more traditional or contemporary? Classic panel styles like wainscoting or shaker panelling complement period homes, while sleek, 3D linear or geometric designs suit modern spaces."
17. Turn your wall panels into artwork
For a one-of-a-kind look, why not create custom hallway wall panels with built-in spaces for artwork.
"Whether it’s framed paintings, photography, or even decorative objects, integrating personal style into the panelling design allows your hallway to make a unique statement," says Jessica Davis.
Custom details like unique trims, mouldings, or personal touches such as picture-frame panelling for displaying family photos are also a great additon. Mirrored sections within the panelling are another great option too, as they reflect light, making your small hallway ideas feel more spacious.
18. Colour coordinate your wall panels with your floor
For a cohesive modern hallway scheme, why not colour coordinate your wall panels with your hallway floors? Matching or complementing the colours between these two elements creates a harmonious flow that ties the space together beautifully.
In the above example from Tapi Carpets and Floors, the bold blue wall panelling perfectly mirrors the deep blue tones in the patterned floor tiles. This matching palette draws the eye naturally through the space and up the stairs.
19. Use contrasting colours for an impactful design scheme
"Use can use two-tone panelling with contrasting colours to create visual interest," recommends Jessica Davis.
Darker tones on the lower panels paired with lighter shades on top can create a sophisticated, layered look. This two-tone technique is perfect for those looking to add drama and style to their hallway while keeping the design balanced and refined.
20. Pair half-wall panels with a statement wall mural
For a hallway that really makes an statement, try pairing half-wall panels with a bold wall mural design. In this example, the white half-wall panelling keeps things simple and classic, while the colourful, nature-inspired mural adds personality and interest to the space.
If you choose this option, consider painting the lower half of the wall in a muted shade. However, if you’re a fan of the maximalist look, a bold-coloured half-wall panel paired with playful wallpaper might be more your style.
21. Continue your hallway panelling up your staircase
For a cohesive look throughout your home, continue your hallway panelling up your stairs. Extending the panelling from the hallway to the stairs creates a seamless flow, which works particularly well in narrow or multi-level homes, drawing the eye upwards and highlighting the architectural features of the staircase.
In this example, the dark panelling carries up the stairs, complementing the bannister and flooring, bringing a touch of elegance to the staircase design. Paired with neutral walls and a lighter carpet runner, it's a calm and collected hallway panelling idea that would suit many contemporary homes.
22. Install minimalist vertical panelling for added height
If you want to make your hallway feel taller and more spacious, install minimalist vertical panelling. This design trick draws the eye upwards, creating the illusion of added height. The clean, simple lines of vertical panels are perfect for smaller spaces, as they help elongate the walls without overwhelming the room with too much detail.
Minimalist vertical panelling works well in modern homes and can be painted in a range of colours to match your aesthetic. For a sleek, airy look, go for light or neutral shades. Alternatively, if you’re after more drama, opt for a dark, moody colour to add contrast while still benefiting from the height-boosting effect.
23. Use reclaimed wooden boards to add warmth to a hallway
Adding reclaimed wooden boards to your hallway is a fantastic way to introduce warmth and character to the space. The natural tones and textures of reclaimed wood bring a sense of history and charm, while also making your home feel cosy and inviting. Plus, using reclaimed materials is a sustainable design choice that gives new life to old materials.
Add hooks for extra storage and pick furniture that also has natural textures too to complete the look.
24. Mix and match your shapes and styles
Not sure which style of hallway panelling you want? The good news is you don't have to choose. Using a combination of curved panels on the lower section of the wall and simple mouldings on the top half really transforms a plain wall into something more standout.
And, by running it from floor to ceiling, it's a great skirting board alternative that adds height to spaces with lower ceilings.
The final benefit of considering hallway panelling ideas? It could help reduce sound levels in your home too.
"Panelling is a great option for improving acoustics in a hallway, particularly wood slatted panels with felt backing," says Charlie Farrar. "This combination of form and materials dampen the noise, creating a calm and quiet space as you enter your home, making it a great way to transition from the outdoors to the indoors."
And, once you have decided on the best wall panels for your hallway, don't neglect your hallway decor ideas, as it's those finishing touches that can truly transform your hallway into a welcoming space.
