Wood paneling is making a comeback in modern design. Here are some modern and stylish ways to use it in your home without it looking dated.
Fall 2024 is all about embracing natural materials, textures, and a rich, earthy color palette. High-end paneling has become a key design element that can transform a space into a luxurious retreat.
Wood paneling has come and gone and is back. From the 1980s onwards, wood paneling was often replaced, but is now popular again, albeit in a changed form.
"Just because something was 'trendy' for a certain period of time does not disqualify it from ultimately being timeless," Austin-based designer Shannon Eddings explains. "Wood paneling was overused at a certain point in time, but it remains a classic.
Wood panelling for walls has been around for centuries. In fact, it's never gone out of fashion – it's always evolved to complement the popular aesthetics of the time. With a heap of wood panelling styles on the market, it's relatively easy to upgrade your walls.
Some traditional design elements that we see in 2024 design trends are some of the same architectural details and design styles you've seen in the past and will see again in the future. These include classic home décor staples like statement chandeliers, wainscoting, and crown molding.
Wall paneling may often conjure images of dark, outdated basements, but the architectural feature has come a long way in past decades. In fact, incorporating it into your home's design can result in an elevated and sophisticated space.
Typically, replacing the paneling or wood paneling with drywall will increase a home's value.
Wood paneling is stepping out of the '70s and into the modern world. See how designers are bringing this wall treatment into the 21st century.
After removing the panels, replace them with drywall and use drywall putty to fill any nail holes and reinforce the studs. After removing the panels, extend the window jambs and power outlet boxes to adjust to the new thickness of the wall covering.
While these are undoubtedly impactful, one overlooked strategy that can significantly increase home value is the application of wall paneling. A subtle yet profound design element, wall paneling infuses style, charm, and character into any home, making it an appealing prospect for potential buyers.
“Traditional wall panels are a great way to add a timeless element to a home.” The style of paneling you choose really determines how timeless your interior feels – something ultra-modern and trendsetting will quickly go out of style, but a more classic design will last.
Shiplap has long been celebrated for its rustic charm and farmhouse appeal, but in 2024, it's taking on a fresh, modern twist. As a versatile and stylish design element, shiplap is being reimagined in innovative ways that bring a touch of elegance and warmth to any space.
Dark wood is making a comeback in 2024. A firm favourite of many interior designers, the sheer elegance of dark wood has taken a backseat to mainstream interior design trends for the last few years as the light and minimalist Scandi style took centre stage.
Custom paneling is typically more expensive upfront compared to drywall. The cost of materials, especially if you choose high-quality wood or intricate designs, can be significant. Additionally, installation may require specialized skills and labor, further driving up the overall cost.
Natural wood wall panels are becoming more popular in modern interior design. They're no longer just used to cover up bare walls.
Floor to ceiling panelling is a great way to make a room feel taller and using one continuous colour will enhance this. Using a single colour creates a relaxing, inviting feel to a room and allows you to add additional colour and texture with furniture and artwork. Half height panelling can add depth to a room.
Painting over wood paneling is often the best choice of all, as it's highly affordable, very effective, quick, and perfect for making outdated and tired walls look much more modern, fresh, and aligned with your tastes.
PAINT THEM UP
Painting your existing wood wall panels is another easy option for an update. Any unwanted gaps and grooves can be filled up with caulk for a smoother look. After a good cleaning and buffing the wall panels can be painted any color you choose, based on your desired mood or aesthetic for the room.
Shiplap is the preferred option for quick, budget-friendly DIY projects, offering timeless visual appeal with minimal fuss. Slatwall, however, shines where utility and flexible storage are priorities. At Ninth & Vine, transform any space with the perfect wall finish.
The color gray is out
Daley told Insider the once popular gray trend has disappeared quickly and will continue to do so in 2024. "With its popularity, many homeowners jumped on the gray bandwagon," Daley said.
Wood wall paneling is an oldie but goodie that people have recently popularized to make their space look beautiful and sophisticated. Wood walls date back to the Victorian era, eventually becoming a staple in mid-century homes. Since then, the style has been adapted to enhance classic and contemporary interiors.