After decorating the guest bedroom with a slatted feature wall, my parents were left with an abundance of panelling and had no idea what to do with it.
But after coming across a video suggesting clever ways to upcycle it, they knew just the place for it – a lifeless alcove in their hallway that was in desperate need of a refresh.
Not only has this new addition breathed new life into a once-boring wall, but it has also been a game-changer for catching splashes from the cat’s food bowls underneath, as it's much easier to wipe clean.
Article continues below“When you’re redecorating on a budget, upcycling dated or tired-looking features is a great place to start. It’s a simple and easy way to instantly add some character, without the need to completely overhaul the room," says Summa Costandi, co-founder at Panels by Sofia.
How to recreate this idea
After measuring the width of the alcove, the panelling was cut to size using a Stanley knife, dragging it down the felt backing.
If you're working with a particularly wonky ceiling or a curvy wall and need to cut it lengthwise, you can make a template using cardboard. Cut it to match the profile, lay it on the wall panel, draw around it, and then cut it using a jigsaw.
To fix the panelling in place, my parents used Stixall Adhesive & Sealant, but any adhesive, such as Grip Fill, would work well for this wall panelling idea. It doesn’t take long to stick – simply push it against the wall and you’re good to go.
They decided to keep the original skirting in place, so the panelling sits neatly on top without dropping down.
To make the most of this once-forgotten corner, they screwed on eight pegs, turning it into a useful area for hanging coats as you walk through the door, slightly tucked behind the edge of the alcove.
They're really happy with the result and feel this space looks more polished and put together than it used to, while also making the most of spare material that would have been a real shame to waste.
What you will need
This versatile adhesive can be used on wood, metal, plastic, glass, and more, and dries in just 10 minutes.
Durable, pocket-friendly and built to last, Stanley knives have a good reputation for a reason.
Other ways to upcycle leftover panelling
Even if you don't have enough panelling to cover an entire wall, there are plenty of ways to get creative and put it to good use. Here are some of my favourite ideas I’ve come across:
1. Media wall
If your media wall idea looks flat and boring, adding some panelling to the back is a great way to create some visual interest – without having to buy lots of knick-knacks to fill it up with.
Slatted panels, as pictured below, tend to work best for this type of setup, offering a subtle but stylish backdrop to your TV. Shaker and wainscoting may also work, but you’ll need to think carefully about the alignment of the rectangles.
2. Fireplace
Panelling is an easy way to spruce up a tired-looking fireplace, but you’ll need to ensure that you use fire-rated MDF panels.
"Installing panelling is a simple and affordable way to give this classic home feature the refresh it deserves, even when you’re short on time and on a budget. Panels can be fitted to the front of the mantlepiece or to the entire feature wall, to stylishly frame the fireplace," says Summa Costandi.
Summa Costandi is the co-founder of North Yorkshire-based decorative wall panelling company, Panels by Sofia. As well as heading up all marketing activity and helping to grow the brand, Summa provides practical advice on product installation and styling, enabling DIY enthusiasts to create their dream homes.
3. Shelving
Another easy way to upcycle leftover panelling is by turning it into floating shelves. Whether you hang it on a panelled wall for a seamless blend (as pictured below) or use it elsewhere to add a pop of interest, this is a thrifty way to put it to use.
"Smaller offcuts can work brilliantly as floating shelves, helping to create a more cohesive look throughout the home," says James Bryant, founder of Cut My. "It is a simple way to reduce waste while adding finishing touches that feel unique and personal."
James Bryant is the founder of Cut My, a UK-based made-to-measure interiors company specialising in bespoke products for homes and gardens. A dedicated DIY enthusiast, James founded Cut My to make precision-cut materials accessible to everyone - from ambitious home improvers to professional tradespeople - combining his hands-on expertise with a commitment to quality craftsmanship and customer service.
These ideas are all incredibly simple and (virtually) free, but will go a long way in livening up forgotten features or even creating a new focal point.
If you found this helpful, you may also want to learn how I turned leftover decking into a DIY planter or how one writer used a wall panelling kit to revive a boring chimney breast.
