Wood wall panelling has been a much-loved part of interior design for decades — if not longer! Offering both aesthetic luxury and practicality, it’s a versatile addition to any home. Perhaps it caught your eye when visiting century-old castles or staying in a rustic country home — it can certainly add a sense of cosiness and grandeur. However, wood panelling can also be given a modern twist, and there are endless ways you can incorporate it in a contemporary and chic way.
Whatever your home’s style, installing wood panelling can be a great way to revamp and refresh your interiors. From wood types and design options to acoustic benefits, read on to learn about wall panelling and see if it’s a good fit for your property.
What is wood panelling and what can you use it for?
Chances are, you’ve probably encountered wood panelling at some point, even if you didn’t realise it. It essentially involves installing wooden panels on walls (and sometimes ceilings). The panels lay side by side over an existing surface, providing an excellent solution for covering up unsightly marks or gaps. This type of panelling can also be useful for concealing pipes and wires and creating a seamless, cosy appearance.
Looks-wise, wooden wall panelling can create a sense of depth and add interest to a room. You can install it along the full length and height of a wall or embrace contrast by panelling the lower half of a wall — ideal for creating a striking staircase feature.
Aside from aesthetics, wood panelling also offers some practical benefits. Installing wall panels can be a great way to improve a room’s insulation and acoustics.
Insulation
If you’re looking to keep heat in, then adding foam insulation boards between your wood panel battens can be a great option.
Acoustics
If you have a large echoey room that feels hollow, acoustic wall panels can absorb the extra sound, reducing reverberation. Properties with very thin walls can also benefit from acoustic wall panels to reduce the amount of sound that filters through from your neighbours.
Wondering where to position your acoustic panels? Well, in general, you want to look at where the sound is coming from. You’ll get the best results from your panels if you install them at the height of the sound — often, this will be ear level.
What type of wood is used for wall panelling?
Wall panels are available in a variety of materials, from solid hardwood to MDF. Acoustic wood panels tend to feature a layer of felt to absorb sound. When it comes to design options, however, you can choose from a broad range of finishes.
- Oak is durable and attractive, with a distinctive grain pattern. Our Oak Wall Panelling is a consistent first choice for many buyers, loved for its durability and flexibility, fitting seamlessly into endless types of interior design.
- Walnut — for a rich and elegant appearance, why not opt for Walnut Wall Panelling? With deep tones and a dark felt backing, these panels are an easy way to bring a touch of opulence to any room.
- Coloured finishes — for something bold, you can always look for wall panelling that explores a colour spectrum beyond natural wood. Light Grey Wall Panelling blends soft and smoky tones with ashen shades to form a subtle, elegant finish. Alternatively, our Black Wall Panelling is modern and chic.
What different styles of wood wall panelling are available?
As well as being available in different finishes and colours, wood panels come in a variety of patterns and styles. Here are a few classics that showcase just how effective and versatile wall panelling can be.
Shaker
Also known as ‘board and batten’, this type of panelling has a traditional square appearance that adds depth to the room with a three-dimensional structure. Because of its cosy feel, it is an excellent choice for the bedroom or living room.
Shiplap
As the name suggests, this type of panelling was originally used on boats. The long, horizontal boards kept ships waterproof — and they can now be a great addition to any bathroom. Shiplap panelling features grooves at the top and bottom of each panel to allow the boards to overlap and prevent any moisture from seeping through.
While the nautical vibe can be great for bathrooms, there’s nothing stopping you from incorporating shiplap panelling into other parts of the house, too.
Victorian
This traditional style is a timeless option, alternating wide and narrow panels which can either span full length or half height, depending on your desired finish. This design boasts a regal sophistication: simple, but effective.
Slatted
Slatted – or strip panels – are an ultra-modern decorative option, adding natural character to give your room a rustic, country feel.
Acoustic wood panelling from A Wood Idea
Whether you’re creating a feature wall or adding character to your staircase, wall panelling can bring a new dimension to your home and offer acoustic insulation. Browse our collection of high-quality wall panels and get in touch with the A Wood Idea team if you have any questions.
