Wall panelling has remained a beloved feature in both traditional and contemporary interiors for centuries. From its origins as a practical way to insulate draughty walls in historic homes to its current role as a sophisticated design element, wall panelling offers a perfect blend of form and function. Today, homeowners and designers alike turn to wall panelling not only to enhance visual appeal but also to introduce texture, depth, and character into any space. Whether you’re drawn to the charm of classic tongue-and-groove, the grandeur of Georgian-inspired raised panels, or the sleek lines of modern slatted designs, there’s a style to suit every taste and interior scheme.
Historically, wall panelling was a practical necessity. In draughty country houses and Georgian townhomes, wood panelling provided an additional layer of insulation, helping to keep rooms warmer and more comfortable. Decorative styles soon evolved, with intricate mouldings, painted finishes, and polished wood becoming a statement of wealth and refinement.
Today, while insulation remains a benefit, wall panelling is largely chosen for its design impact. It has become a go-to solution for creating a feature wall, disguising imperfections, and bringing a bespoke finish to interiors. Designers often use it to anchor a space visually, provide symmetry, or break up expanses of plain plaster.
Wall panelling is incredibly versatile, offering countless possibilities for style, finish, and installation. Popular choices include:
Tongue-and-Groove Panelling: Known for its vertical or horizontal boards with interlocking edges, this style is perfect for adding a traditional or coastal feel to bathrooms, kitchens, and hallways.
Shaker-Style Panelling: With its clean, rectangular frames, Shaker panelling is ideal for modern country homes, providing understated elegance and symmetry.
Board-and-Batten Panelling: A rustic yet refined option, this style features alternating wide boards and narrow battens for a striking, textured look.
Slatted and Fluted Panelling: A favourite in contemporary interiors, slim vertical slats add height, drama, and a touch of Scandi minimalism to living rooms and bedrooms.
Raised and Beaded Panels: Perfect for period properties or grand interiors, these panels offer depth and detail, often painted in rich tones for a truly opulent finish.
Traditionally made from solid timber, wall panelling is now available in a range of materials to cater to different budgets and needs:
MDF Panelling: Affordable, easy to work with, and perfect for painting, MDF panels are a popular choice for DIY projects and custom designs.
Solid Wood Panelling: Brings authentic grain patterns, warmth, and durability, with options like oak, pine, and walnut adding natural beauty to interiors.
PVC and Composite Panelling: Ideal for high-moisture areas such as bathrooms, offering water resistance and easy cleaning.
Engineered Veneer Panels: Provide the luxury look of real wood with improved stability and less susceptibility to warping.
The colour you choose for your wall panelling can dramatically influence the mood of your space:
Crisp Whites and Soft Neutrals: Perfect for creating a bright, airy look that works well in both traditional and contemporary homes.
Deep, Moody Hues: Rich navy, forest green, or charcoal grey panelling brings drama and sophistication to living and dining spaces.
Natural Wood Tones: Highlight the beauty of the wood grain for a warm, organic feel that complements rustic or mid-century modern interiors.
Two-Tone and Contrasting Finishes: Combine painted panels with wallpaper or bold wall colours for a striking visual effect.
Finishes can be matte for a soft, understated appearance, satin for a gentle sheen, or gloss for a more formal, polished effect.
While aesthetics are a major draw, wall panelling offers several practical benefits:
Added Insulation: Especially in older homes, panelling can help retain heat and reduce energy costs.
Improved Acoustics: Certain panel designs can help absorb sound, reducing echo in large or open-plan rooms.
Wall Protection: In high-traffic areas such as hallways and staircases, panelling protects walls from scuffs and knocks.
Concealing Imperfections: Panelling can hide cracks, uneven plaster, or outdated wall finishes, giving rooms an instant upgrade.
Wall panelling can be adapted to almost any room in the house:
Living Rooms: Create a feature wall behind a sofa or TV unit for added depth and style.
Bedrooms: Add a half-height panelled wall behind the bed to serve as an integrated headboard.
Hallways and Stairs: Protect walls from wear and tear while adding a touch of elegance.
Bathrooms: Use moisture-resistant panelling to add charm and warmth to what can otherwise be a clinical space.
Home Offices: Incorporate panelling to create a professional backdrop for video calls and improve the room’s acoustics.
You can opt for professional installation for a flawless finish, or choose a DIY route with ready-made panelling kits. Many panels are designed for straightforward installation, with pre-cut sections and easy-to-follow instructions. For a bespoke look, custom-made panels can be tailored to your room’s exact dimensions.
Pair with Lighting: Wall sconces or picture lights mounted on panels create a layered, atmospheric glow.
Mix with Wallpaper: Use panelling on the lower half of a wall with patterned wallpaper above for a classic look.
Incorporate Shelving: Add built-in shelves or alcoves within panelled walls for a functional feature.
Play with Proportions: Full-height panels can make ceilings feel higher, while half-height designs create a cosy, grounded effect.
Wall panelling can be made from a variety of materials, including MDF, wood, and PVC. The most common materials used are MDF and wood.
Wall panelling is easy to clean and maintain. Simply wipe it down with a damp cloth and mild soap to keep it looking its best.
Yes, wall panelling can be painted. MDF and wood panelling can be sanded and painted to match your décor. PVC wall panelling typically cannot be painted.
Wall panelling is durable and long-lasting. When properly installed and maintained, it can last for many years.
The cost of wall panelling can vary depending on the type of material and the design you choose. On average, wall panelling is more expensive than painting or wallpapering a room, but it offers a more sophisticated and elegant look that can increase the value of your home.
Common materials for Wall Panelling include wood, MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard), PVC, and fabric. The choice of material depends on the desired aesthetic, durability, and budget considerations.
Wall Panelling enhances interior aesthetics by introducing visual interest, texture, and architectural depth to flat walls. It serves as a decorative element that can transform a room into a well-curated space.
Yes, Wall Panelling is highly customizable. It can be tailored to match different design styles, from classic and traditional to modern and contemporary. Customisation options include choosing materials, patterns, and finishes.
Wall Panelling is versatile and can be used in various rooms, including living rooms, bedrooms, dining areas, and hallways. It adds character to any space and can be adapted to suit the function and style of different rooms.
Wall Panelling offers practical benefits such as protecting walls from wear and tear, improving room acoustics by minimising sound reflections, and serving as an aesthetically pleasing backdrop for different activities.
