Interior trend watch: wall panelling

It’s the interior trend that’s happening across the country! People are swapping their plain walls for panelling – a classic design facet that adds drama, texture and interest. The material of the moment is wood, although the approach to panelling varies from house-to-house. From half height or floor-to-ceiling, to feature cameos or just the end of a kitchen island, we have fallen back in love with battening out our walls.

Choose your panelling style

If you’re looking for inspiration, social media is your friend. Use the search function on Instagram and Pinterest to see real-home examples, or head to YouTube for tutorials of DIY panelling in action. 

You can choose from traditional panelling created using mouldings, cornices and dado rails, quick-fix kits for a shiplap look or Scandi-style thin slats that are super sleek but the different styles all have one thing in common – they have the ability to change the atmosphere in any room. Here’s how you can get the look:-

Take the DIY approach

If you’re handy with a spirit level and a glue gun, you can create your own panelling with a few simple items from a good DIY store. It will involve basic woodwork skills, precise measuring and some patience but the effect can be stunning – especially if painted a dramatic shade. This simple ‘How To Panel A Wall’ guide from Homebase is a great place to start.

Ready-made panelling

If your DIY skills are more entry level, you can actually buy sheets of tongue and groove-style panelling. This approach covers large areas of a wall in one go and takes the hard work out of achieving a professional look. The sheets can easily be glued or screwed in place. If, however, you’re a tenant, you could simply prop the panels against a wall or use some of the many removable adhesive strips that are perfect for use in rented properties. 

Fake it with paper

Not everyone has the patience, skill or time to add real-wood panelling to their property but there’s good news – a shortcut exists in the form of panelling-effect wallpaper. Retailers including  Mineheart stock a range of panelling on a roll; you can even choose which period your faux panelling comes from, as there are Georgian, Victorian and Dutch Inlay styles to choose from. 

Temporary, no-damage solutions

If you’re prone to changing your mind or you live in rented accommodation, you can still follow interior fashions by choosing a ‘peel and stick’ wall decal in a panelling print. These decals can be applied with ease and removed without leaving a mark or residue. Etsy is a good place to source decals – we love this ornate panelling decal with gold details for adding a regal feel to any room. Looking for something more modern? Try this whitewashed timber plank decal for a Californian beach house vibe.

If you’re looking for a new home that provides you with a blank canvas to personalise, get in touch today. We’ll let you know all of the available properties to buy and rent within your budget.