There's so much more than shiplap.
If you think wood paneling always makes a room look dated, dark, and musty, think again. The best wall paneling is a seriously stylish decorating detail that brings texture, dimension, and character to a room. (Think about how Joanna Gaines uses shiplap.) Wood wall coverings are cool now, we promise! There are so many modern wall paneling ideas that look nothing like your parents' 1990s basement, and we've pulled examples from top interior designers to prove it. Wood-Plastic Composite Board
Wall paneling isn't limited only to wood that covers an entire wall. You can add a chair rail or wainscoting panels for a historical touch, use vinyl planks to get a hardwood-esque look for half the price, or even install acoustic tiles for soundproofing.
Paneling a wall is a fairly easy and cheap DIY project if you're comfortable with power tools. The most cost-effective way to panel a wall is with an MDF wall paneling kit; the most expensive involves hiring a contractor and using hardwoods or exotic wood paneling. Before you break out your circular saw, know that precision is key for good results. It may be worth it to hire a contractor—especially if you don't already own a circular saw or know what it is.
Whether you get the look yourself or call in a pro, these 25 designer examples of wall paneling are all the inspiration you need. We found decorative wall paneling for living rooms, bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchens, and even in between spaces like hallways. Find your favorite below.
White walls have become increasingly popular in gender neutral nurseries, but the stark color can feel cold and bare. To combat that, add texture with decorative wall paneling. The subtle detail creates warmth and visual interest, as seen in this space designed by Karlee and Weston Marsh.
There's nothing better than feeling cozy and bundled up at home. Wall paneling can have a cocooning effect. Design firm McLaren-Excell preserved this original midcentury paneling to embrace the natural warmth and texture.
Beachy white wall paneling is the quickest way to give your home a coastal feel. Designer Jeffrey Alan Marks extended this paneling onto the ceilings of his California home to make the small space feel larger and airier.
This cabin designed by White Space Design Group has wall paneling throughout. But nowhere is it more beautiful than in the dining room, where each and every plank's unique grain is on display. The warm-toned wood mirrors the views of the forest and Puget Sound beyond.
Daniela Holt Voith, founding partner and director of Design at Voith and Mactavish Architects, helped design this home, which was converted from a historic barn. In addition to these bookshelves, salvaged wood was reused throughout the house.
If you're a big fan of color and wood paneling, look no further than this Shannon Eddings Interiors–designed bunk room. Painting wood paneling in a single vibrant color can be all the decoration a simple space needs.
This dining room designed by Jamie Drake proves that wood paneling is cool beyond its farmhouse roots. The extra-wide, seamless wood panels extend from the walls to the ceiling are are painted in a crisp white for a fresh take on the shiplap look.
Just because you have wood wall panels doesn't mean you can't experiment with a fun color—in fact, it's an excellent reason to try one out. Envelop the whole space in a rich, glossy lacquer from floor to ceiling for a high impact.
Whitewashing wood allows you to keep its woodgrain texture but not the deep color. Start by watering down your paint, then brush it on, immediately wipe it down, and repeat until you get your desired color.
Get the tutorial at House of Peace.
Custom wood paneling in this breakfast nook designed by Pamela Shamshiri of Studio Shamshiri softens the crisp white walls and edgy concrete floors. It's also unique: "Everybody is using white oak, that's very much a thing of our time, so I try to avoid it as much as possible," she says. So she opted for black walnut paneling instead.
If you have wooden wall paneling in the bedroom, double down on the theme by bringing in a statement-making wooden headboard. Paint the walls white so all eyes will focus on the bespoke bed frame.
How cute is this bunk room designed by April Tomlin? "We wanted to make it a fun, magical experience,” says Tomlin. Naturally, wood paneling was part of the equation. Special cutouts make the space feel even more whimsical.
Give your kitchen walls extra style by painting wood paneling two contrasting colors, like the black and white seen here. You'll create dimension and turn a lackluster area, like the wall behind this oven, into a focal point.
In this epic Montana cabin, designer Kylee Shintaffer and her team balanced cool-toned wood paneling with warm accents, including raspberry pillows, tan walls, and soft bedding that create the ultimate homey atmosphere.
This outdoor space by Sarah Jefferies Interior Architecture + Interiors is proof that wood paneling doesn't have to be limited to interiors. In fact, it's perfect for a roof deck.
If you have distinct wood paneling on one wall, consider incorporating wood beams on the ceiling. This den in designer Elizabeth Pash's Locust Valley home proves the look makes for a cozy escape.
Is this the sexiest bathroom ever? We think so. Painting a smaller room in a dark color—walls, ceiling, and all—can makes it feel larger and more intimate the same time. It's also a smart way to disguise paneling you don't love.
See more at Amber Interiors.
Contrasting wooden wall panels with a luxe texture like marble makes a room look and feel more elegant. Note the thin wood wall panels on the wall and thick ones on the ceiling. We love the narrow slats for an understated twist.
A deep slate gray paint is strategically placed on paneling, which acts as a nice border around the more brightly painted areas portions of the wall. It takes the emphasis off the ridges while creating a geometric pattern.
California designer Lynn Kloythanomsup proves the power of material mixing, especially in kitchens where surfaces are of the utmost importance. The back wall features wood paneling, as do the lower cabinets, but they're painted in different colors for contrast. Combined with exposed brick and marble, the effect is dynamic and unique.
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