Interior wall panelling is a versatile design element that can add character, warmth, and texture to any room. It’s really been making a comeback as a fashionable choice of wall decor. With panelling, you can achieve a classic, rustic, or contemporary look, depending on your preference. However, if you’re new to panelling, it can be challenging to know what to search for when looking for inspiration, as different types of panelling have specific names.
In this blog post, we’ll take you through the different types of interior wall panelling commonly used to help you decide what type might be right for you.
SHIPLAP PANELLING:
Shiplap panelling is a timeless favourite that has recently gained immense popularity. Characterised by its horizontal overlapping boards, it can create a rustic, beachy, or farmhouse vibe. Shiplap is versatile and easy to install, perfect for traditional and modern interiors.
Suitable for DIY?
Shiplap is relatively straightforward for DIY enthusiasts. Measure, cut, and attach boards to the wall to create the desired pattern.
Advantages
- Adds a rustic, coastal look.
- Easy to paint or stain.
Disadvantages
- It may require additional insulation for improved energy efficiency.
BEADBOARD PANELLING
Beadboard panelling is reminiscent of classic cottage and coastal aesthetics. It consists of narrow, vertical planks with a distinctive groove (bead) in between. This style adds a charming, textured look to your walls and works beautifully in bathrooms, kitchens, and bedrooms.
Suitable for DIY?
Beadboard panelling is DIY-friendly, especially for small projects. Measure, cut, and nail or glue beadboard sheets.
Advantages
- Adds charm to bathrooms, kitchens, and bedrooms.
- It can be painted in various colours.
Disadvantages
- Limited use in larger rooms due to the need for numerous seams.
RAISED PANELLING
Raised panelling is an excellent choice if you’re after a more formal and elegant appearance. It features intricately designed panels with a three-dimensional effect, often seen in traditional or Victorian homes.
Suitable for DIY?
Due to complexity, it is best left to experienced DIYers or professionals, especially when stairs or corners are involved. I think this panelling looks lovely, and I’m considering doing this in our hallway and landing. Keep your eyes peeled for a blog post within the next few months!
Advantages
- Creates an elegant, sophisticated look.
Disadvantages
- Requires skilled installation.
- It may be costly as it would require a lot of material to be fully raised off the wall.
TONGUE AND GROOVE PANELLING
Tongue and groove panelling is known for its tight interlocking system, similar to wooden or laminate flooring. It creates a seamless, smooth surface and is often used for a clean, contemporary look. This style can be painted or stained to suit your desired colour scheme and decor.
Suitable for DIY?
Tongue and groove boards must be carefully aligned. Thus, it is moderate DIY difficulty but should be fine if you have laid wooden tongue and groove floor before.
Advantages
- Versatile and suitable for modern or traditional interiors.
Disadvantages
- Slight warping or unevenness can pose challenges during installation.
BRICK AND STONE VENEER PANELLING
Veneer panelling is a fantastic option for those who love the look of exposed brick or stone but want to avoid the hassle of a complete renovation. It mimics the texture and appearance of these materials, providing a rustic or industrial feel to your space.
Suitable for DIY?
This is a DIY-friendly type of panelling involving adhesive and cutting tools, similar to tiling. It does require careful measurement. I personally love the look of open brick and am considering doing a feature wall in my kitchen using brick veneer.
Advantages
- Adds rustic or industrial aesthetics without the need for structural support.
Disadvantages
- Limited insulation value.
- Natural stone or brick may look more authentic.
RECLAIMED WOOD PANELLING
For an eco-friendly and unique touch, consider reclaimed wood panelling. This style repurposes old wood from barns, factories, or other structures, giving your walls a one-of-a-kind, rustic character.
Suitable for DIY?
Requires woodworking skills for cutting, sanding, and installation. It would be an excellent opportunity to get creative as you can attach the panels in all sorts of patterns, such as herringbone or chevron, not just vertically or horizontally. I love this style, and this is exactly how I made my herringbone table top for an outdoor table – using reclaimed wood. We also did the same thing on our gazebo walls, which I think is more relevant to this panelling article, and it turned out beautifully.
Advantages
- Eco-friendly and distinctive.
- Adds warmth and character.
Disadvantages
- It may require additional treatment to address existing issues with reclaimed wood.
DECORATIVE WALL PANELS
If you want something distinctive, decorative wall panels come in various patterns, textures, and materials. These can create feature walls or focal points within your interior design.
Suitable for DIY?
How to install these will vary depending on the type of decorative panel chosen. Therefore, the difficulty will range from simple to complex.
Advantages
- Infinite design possibilities for creating focal points or feature walls.
Disadvantages
- Some decorative panels can be costly.
- Installation difficulty depends on the chosen design.
CONCLUSION
Interior wall panelling offers many design possibilities, allowing you to infuse personality and style into your living spaces. The type of panelling you choose can significantly impact a room’s overall look and feel and is a great way to change things up. If you’re DIYing the project, it will also be super fun!
