If you're looking for a way to add a wow factor to your plain walls, wall panelling ideas are a popular choice and a regular feature in interior design. And, while the technique was once considered a fairly traditional style of decor, there's now options for all rooms and homes – regardless of style, era or budget.
Added to its aesthetic appeal is also the fact that installing wall panelling is also a job that doesn't always require the skills of a professional. Often within the capabilities of a competent DIYer, there are now a raft of wall panelling options you can install yourself.
Feeling like your walls could benefit from a boost? Here's 25 wall panelling ideas to help turn your bare walls into a design delight.
1. Create a cocoon like feel in a cosy bedroom
If you're looking for a way to add interest to your sleeping spot, wall panelling ideas can be a good choice in all types of bedrooms. And while using it on every wall may not be practical if you need to position wardrobes or other bedroom furniture, adding a feature wall behind a bed to make a cosy bedroom idea even more welcoming is a great way of enhacing the space.
For even more interest, opt for slatted wall panelling ideas in a colour that compliments the best bedroom colours. These Trepanel Design Double Denim Blue Wall Panels also have acoustic backing for soundproofing.
2. Use bookmatching for dramatic effect
While wall panelling ideas may once have been limited to wood panelling, it's no longer the case. Now, large sections of wall panelling made from materials such as stone and marble are as equally an option when it comes to wall design – albeit more expensive and trickier to install than some of the simpler DIY options.
But, while they may cost more, they can achieve striking results, particularly when techniques such as bookmatching are used. Often found in kitchens, it's used to dramatic effect in this living room scheme.
3. Combine wall panelling and wallpaper
When renovating a period property, you may be keen to reference the original era or style of your home in your new decor, and even if you don't have original panelling you can restore, there's no reason you can't use modern materials to add a traditional touch.
And, if your walls aren't in the best condition, using a combination of simple wall panelling and wallpaper can be a good way of covering up flaws or discrepancies that paint simply wouldn't hide.
Try this delicately patterned wallpaper surrounded by green square panelling for a similar effect
4. Or, fake it with faux wallpaper panelling
"Panelling wallpaper offers several benefits over traditional wood or other types of panelling, making it an increasingly popular choice for homeowners seeking a blend of practicality and contemporary elegance," says Caroline Woolmer, head of product design at I Love Wallpaper.
"One of the main benefits of panelling wallpaper is also its affordability. It provides a cost-effective alternative to wood or custom panelling, enabling homeowners to achieve a similar aesthetic without the extra costs," she adds.
And, if carpentry isn't your forte, wall panelling ideas that involve wallpapering can make it a little easier to get the look particularly if you opt for an easy hang, paste the wall option. Wallpapering skills a little rusty too? Stock up on these wallpaper tools to ensure a professional finish.
This wood panelling and tree design combo wallpaper shown here in cream is also available in a range of other colours
Caroline Woolmer heads up product design at leading wallpaper company, I Love Wallpaper.
5. Get creative with paint on your wall panelling ideas
Combine simple vertical panelling with some clever paint ideas and you have a great wall panelling idea for a hallway or entrance. In this design, a two tone colour scheme has been used to add contemporary twist to this traditional look.
Painting the skirting board in the same colour as the lower half of the wall adds a sense of solidity to the scheme, while the lighter colour above keeps it fresh and inviting.
To make sure you get a clean line between the two different colours, try this Frog Masking Tape from Amazon for a neat and crisp finish.
6. Mix and match wood and marble in contemporary spaces
If you're in the process of designing a large, contemporary self build with high ceilings and vast rooms, finding ways to avoid them feeling too cavernous can be challenging. Wall panelling ideas can be a good solution, particularly when you combine a variety of different finishes.
The vertical wooden slats in this room draw attention to the upper windows and height of the space, while the large sections of marble on the walls below draw the eye back down and towards the large patio doors and the view outside.
Not sure how to mix and match colours? Olivia Crosher, interior designer at Naturewall offers the following tips.
"For wall panelling with natural wood and stone finishes, picking out the tones of colour is a great way to build up a complementary palette with other organic materials," she says.
"The warmer tones found in oak work well with creamy neutral linens and fiery terracotta to create a welcoming and relaxing atmosphere, whereas the cooler grey tones running through stone finishes can be layered with deep charcoals and pewter metallics to create a contemporary, layered look."
Olivia is an interior designer and visual content lead at Naturewall, purveyors of cutting edge wall panelling for hallways and interiors. Olivia leads direction on photography, videography, set design and styling for Naturewall products.
7. Use wall panelling in bathrooms as an alternative to tiles
If re-grouting tiles or even keeping the grout clean always seems like a chore, vast sections of wall panelling may be a good option when renovating a bathroom.
"There are lots of ways to introduce panelling into the bathroom," says Olivia Crosher. "Large-format marble, or marble-effect panels are perfect for shower enclosures. Alternatively, slatted waterproof panels work well behind a basin and mirror to create a feature wall that brings even small bathroom ideas to life."
8. Wall panel the lower half of a room to protect your walls
Do you have a busy family living room? Wall panelling such as these Boiserie White Wall Panels can help protect your walls from scuffs and scratches or even from furniture marks.
Pick a material that can be easily cleaned, or if you've opted for DIY wall panelling that you're painting yourself, make sure you keep a spare tin of paint in the same shade to touch up any marks on a regular basis, and ensure a pristine finish at all times.
9. Define a work from home space with fluted wall panels in an alcove
If you've designated an alcove in a sitting room as a location for a small home office idea, fluted wood panelling ideas are a great backdrop to a floating desk.
Hardwearing, practical and defining the space as something other than an empty alcove, another alternative wall panelling idea in this situation would be cork wall panelling.
Also hard wearing, it can be a practical wall covering and a far more stylish alternative to an office style pinboard.
10. Achieve a luxe look on less money
If you're how to make a small bathroom feel luxurious, wall panelling ideas can be a cost-effective solution. Offering all the style but without the premium price tag, "marble effect wall panels give the luxurious aesthetic of floor-to-ceiling natural stone slabs for a fraction of the price and with easier installation," says Olivia Crosher.
"Using neutral tones on the wall will also reduce visual clutter, making a room feel less chaotic and busy. Ideal when you want to a long relaxing bath in the evening.”
11. Create a headboard with wall panelling
If you need a headboard solution but can't find one that works, installing wooden slats along the lower half of the wall behind a bed and finishing with a wooden trim can recreate the feel of a headboard in your bedroom.
It also means you have an easy built-in picture shelf for displaying photos or artwork. This wall panelling idea is also an option for guest bedroom ideas that double up as studios or work spaces, and have a simple sofa bed for guests without any fixed headboard.
These Naturewall Slatwall panels in Walnut are bonded to felt to make them easier to install.
12. Install tongue and groove for a practical but stylish hallway
If you're looking for a simple hallway panelling idea, tongue and groove could be your answer. Practical, easy to install yourself if you have DIY skills and readily available online or from a DIY store, it can also be repainted if you decide on redecorating your entrance way in the future.
For maximum impact, adopt the technique of colour drenching in one shade across the walls, skirting boards, radiators and furniture and you've got a stand out entrance that's in line with this year's paint trends.
Try a scrub and stain resistant paint such as this Johnstone's washable paint if trying out this wall panelling idea in a busy hallway
13. Hang a wall panelling mural in your dining room
Wall panelling suits dining rooms particularly well, where its warmth adds a welcoming convivial touch. If you're installing the real thing, paint it in a soft muted tone, for a relaxing atmosphere.
Or, if you don't want to go to the lengths of measuring out and fixing mouldings and wall panelling to your walls, large wallpaper murals featuring a panelled design can be a clever alternative giving the same effect with less work required.
14. Use acoustic panelling in a loft conversion
This wall panelling doesn't only just look good, it has a special acoustic felt backing with sound absorption. It's the perfect solution for soundproofing a loft conversion.
This panelling can also be used on the ceiling, so can help muffle noise from upstairs in the rooms below too – perfect if you've got squeaky floorboards to contend with. To install, you only need to glue these panels to the wall or fix with screws through the felt, making it super easy for even an amateur DIYer.
15. Treat your pets to a spot of wall panelling too
If you're of the belief that your pet's abode is equally worthy of some stylish touches, using slatted wall panelling in a boot room idea where your pet sleeps is not only practical, but will also make the sleeping nook feel warmer and cosier.
Check you've opted for a waterproof version and follow the cleaning advice in the FAQs below to keep it fresh and germ free.
16. Create a work of art with individual slats and strip lights
Combining individual wall slats and energy-efficient LED strip lights can turn your wall panelling ideas into something resembling a modern work of art rather than a simple wall covering.
We love how this ideas runs along the walls and ceiling, although it would work equally as well as a standalone wall feature. One thing is sure, making sure your lines are poker straight is essential in a design like this one. Try this Nikotek Green Laser Level from Amazon to set out your design before you start attaching your slats to the wall.
And, if you don't want to tackle wiring in new lights, try a rechargeable option instead such as this Milpoel LED Light Strip, also available from Amazon.
17. Use a chevron pattern for extra interest
Although many wall panelling ideas include horizontal or vertical lines, breaking up a feature wall with a geometric pattern such as this chevron design in a master bedroom idea helps to add a sense of luxury and elegance.
And even though this room already benefits from high ceilings, the pattern would also help to add width and height in small bedroom ideas by naturally drawing the eye both upwards and outwards.
18. Add a wiggle to break up your wall panelling ideas
Like to stand out from the crowd with your interior design ideas? Why not add a wiggle to your wall panelling ideas by incorporating arches and curves.
Adding a sense of playfulness to traditional moulding designs, it's a great addition to this fresh and contemporary dining room idea. Make the whole scheme pop with a pastel and ice-cream inspired paint palette of green, yellow and pink.
19. Create New England style wall panelling
Simple wood cladding, fitted in horizontal strips and painted a fresh white is the ideal way to create an airy New England style feel in the home. This style of cladding, sometimes called shiplap, is super popular in the US, especially in coastal towns, for its fresh, nautical vibe.
Combine it with pale wood floors and painted joinery details elsewhere for a cohesive look.
20. Hide a door in your wall panelling ideas
This clever wall panelling idea is a clever way to include hidden door ideas in your rooms. This could be for some hidden storage, or how about for an ensuite bathroom? In this instance, it's been used as an under stair storage idea, with the panelled wall covering over the awkward nook under the stairs.
For this project, build out a stud wall and door first, before affixing your panelling. The panelling strips will add some extra weight to the door, so using adjustable hinges will help you keep your lines straight on the panelling once it's finished.
21. Use your wood panelling to create the illusion of an alcove
Although the beds in this room appear to be inset into a large alcove, it's simply a clever illusion achieved by running this dark wood panelling in smaller strips along the side walls and ceiling.
Turning a feature wall into a more structural design feature adds another dimension and creates a luxurious, hotel like finish in this twin bedroom.
22. Showcase the beauty of natural timber in your panelling
Though it's a bit more pricey than using MDF, you can't beat internal timber cladding as a form of panelling. It brings instance warmth and richness to your space, and brings a connection with natural materials that's an important part of biophilic design.
For a highly contemporary finish, opt for a rich toned timber such as walnut or a very pale timber, such as ash. Narrow strips of timber fitted either horizontally or vertically, with tiny spaces between, ensure a super sleek end result.
23. Choose shaker style wall panelling for classic appeal
Shaker style wall panelling is a classic design that adds a sense of depth and interest to walls. It's best suited to period homes where it may have naturally been found, but Shaker panelling has become a modern design staple and has also been adopted as a way to bring some character to new builds.
As they're so popular, Shaker style wall panels can often be bought in kits and packs, meaning you don't have to do too much maths and get the timber cut yourself. You can try any sort of proportion of panelling for your room, from simple squares to this interesting set-up used in a small bathroom.
24. Choose reclaimed wood for instant character
The rustic weathered vertical wall cladding used in this bathroom creates a warm backdrop for the back-to-wall bath as well as providing a handy shelf for toiletries.
Sourcing reclaimed wood is a great idea for panelling, not only might it be cheaper than new timber, but it's good for the planet and means you can embrace the natural patina of the timber in your space.
25. Go for coastal vibes with weathered boards
Recreate a beachside feel in your home all year-round by using your wall panelling to conjure up a seaside mood.
Opt for slightly weather-beaten timber with a rustic finish – think fishing boats and huts and aim for a slightly imperfect look for a coastal house.
If you are worried about the whole thing looking a little too shabby, limit the panelling to just a small section of the room and make a feature of it rather than covering all the walls in the same finish.
FAQs
How practical is wood panelling in a bathroom?
Wall panelling ideas are particularly useful when it comes to bathroom design. Not only will wall panelling add warmth and character but it can also have a practical role too.
If you want to build in pipework, for example, you can cover your boxing in with wall panelling – a neat and stylish way to finish off your bathroom and add a handy storage ledge at the same time.
Many people are now opting for wood cladding as an alternative to tiles – on walls and bath panels alike. If you choose to do this, be sure to check the wood you use is suitable for use in wet areas, or select a sealant that will protect it from moisture. Moisture-resistant MDF works well too.
What is the best wall panelling for kitchens?
"Reeded, fluted, and slatted panels all add interest to kitchens with their sleek geometric profiles, creating a contemporary look when installed as splashbacks or clad around islands," says Olivia Crosher.
"Achieving a traditional yet easily maintainable design is made possible with waterproof tongue-and-groove panelling. These splash-proof finishes eliminate the need to compromise on style for practicality, with all options being quick to install and easy to wipe down."
Can I use beading to make wall panelling ideas?
Making panelling with beading is a cost-effective way to add interest to your walls, as this generally costs much less than whole sheets of MDF and is much easier to cut at home.
It also lends itself to creating large panels, which are a great way to highlight the proportions of a room – and not only does this wall panelling style add drama, but it can make ceilings feel higher too, making it a great small living room idea.
What material is best for wall panelling?
Those after wall panelling ideas should be aware that there are lots of different materials for wall panelling. Whilst timber is the traditional option, MDF wall panelling is also cost effective, easy to paint and doesn't tend to warp or twist.
If you plan on using MDF in a room with high levels of moisture (such as the bathroom) be sure to opt for moisture resistant MDF.
Is wall panelling easy to clean?
"To clean in between wooden slats, use a vacuum cleaner with a soft-bristle nozzle to remove any dust from the crevices," says Olivia Crosher. "For wood panelling with an oiled finish, a damp cloth can be used on the surface to wipe away any fingerprints and marks. Our waterproof panelling can be easily cleaned with soap and water, making it ideal for high-traffic areas," she adds.
While wall panelling can be a great option in your self build or renovations, if you're keen to consider other finishes too, why not take a look at microcement. A popular choice for flooring, it can also be used on walls too.
