Types of Wall Panelling: Top Trends for 2024

When you hear the term “wall panelling,” what comes to mind? It essentially refers to using various wood materials like solid planks or engineered products to cover and decorate the walls of a room or interior space. Decorative panelling, in particular, adds style, character, and protection to the walls, merging traditional interior style with modern living.

In this article, we’re going to explore various types of wood wall panelling, from the classic shaker style and wainscoting to the modern slat wall panels and timeless tongue and groove. Each style has its own unique charm, advantages, and perfect setting. So whether you’re a traditionalist or a trendsetter, there’s a wood panelling option that’ll suit your design vision.

Shaker style wall panelling typically features a square or rectangular pattern created by vertical and horizontal MDF strips or battens. As one of the most popular DIY wall panels, it can complement a range of design styles, from traditional to modern, often being a much more affordable option compared to real wood panels.

Shaker panels are commonly used in living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms, and even kitchens. Its clean lines and understated elegance make it a popular choice for traditional, farmhouse, and transitional interior design styles. It can also be incorporated into more modern or contemporary spaces, providing a warm and textural backdrop.

Wainscoting is a style of wood panelling that covers the lower portion of a wall, typically up to about one-third or halfway up the wall height. It can be combined with other wall treatments like wallpaper or paint above.

Some common types of wainscoting include raised panelling, which features a traditional design with intricate mouldings, beadboard wainscoting, which has a more rustic, cottage-style look, and flat panel wainscoting which offers a more modern, streamlined appearance with smooth, flat panels.

Wainscoting adds warmth, character, and visual interest to a room while protecting the lower portion of the walls from scuffs and wear. It can also protect walls from damage caused by furniture and chairs, serving both a decorative and functional purpose.

Slat wall panels, also known as slatted panelling, feature a series of vertical or horizontal wooden slats mounted on a solid backing, creating a unique linear pattern and texture. Hardwood veneers like oak, maple, and walnut are popular choices for slat wall panels, but softwoods like pine or cedar can also be used for a more rustic look.

Slat wall panels offer a modern and visually interesting alternative to traditional wood panelling, and can be used to create accent walls or cover entire rooms. They are often used in living rooms, bedrooms, and commercial spaces like offices or retail stores.

Tongue and groove panelling features long, horizontal or vertical wood planks or boards with a tongue (protruding) and groove (indented) edge that interlock for a seamless, tight fit. Tongue and groove panelling offers a seamless, polished look and can be easily installed.

Horizontal tongue and groove panelling creates a classic, traditional look and is often used for wainscoting or covering the entire wall. Vertical tongue and groove panelling provide a more modern, linear appearance and can make a space feel taller and more open.

When selecting wood wall panelling, consider factors such as budget, durability requirements, maintenance needs, and the overall aesthetic you wish to achieve in the space.

Different types of wood panelling can complement various interior design styles. For example, shaker style panelling works well with traditional or farmhouse styles, while slat wall panels may be more suited to modern or industrial designs, making them ideal for an accent wall.

From the classic charm of shaker style and tongue and groove panelling to the modern appeal of slat wall panels and the elegance of wainscoting, wood wall panelling offers a diverse range of options to create a feature wall that enhances the character and warmth of interior spaces.

Incorporating traditional panelling with bold and vibrant colours can make a striking statement, while tongue and groove wood panelling provides a cost-effective and easy-to-install solution for both interior and exterior walls.