Modern Bedroom Wall Panelling Ideas

August 9, 2024

When decorating a bedroom, wall panelling is one of the best ways to add personality, texture, and depth. This design feature, once seen as traditional, has been reimagined in modern interiors to offer endless possibilities. Whether you want to create a cosy retreat, add a touch of luxury, or make your bedroom stand out, wall panelling can be a game-changer. Below, we’ll explore several modern bedroom wall panelling ideas to help you transform your space into something truly special.

1. Geometric Wood Panelling

Geometric wood panelling is a fantastic way to add visual interest and sophistication to your bedroom. Instead of the traditional horizontal or vertical wooden slats, consider patterns like herringbone, chevron, or even hexagons. These patterns bring a modern twist to wood panelling, creating a dynamic and engaging backdrop for your room.

Wood panelling in a geometric pattern works particularly well when paired with neutral colours or soft, muted tones. This allows the intricate designs to stand out without overwhelming the space. Opt for a dark wood finish like walnut or ebony for a more contemporary look.

2. Textured Fabric Panels

Textured fabric panels are an excellent choice for those seeking a softer, more luxurious feel. These panels can be made from velvet, linen, or suede and are typically padded for added comfort and elegance. The fabric adds a tactile element to the room, making it feel cosier and more inviting.

One of the benefits of fabric panels is their versatility in terms of colour and pattern. You can choose a bold, statement-making fabric for a dramatic effect or something more subtle and neutral to create a calming environment. Fabric panels also improve the room’s acoustics, making it quieter and more restful.

3. Vertical Slat Wall Panelling

Vertical slat wall panelling has gained popularity in recent years. This type of panelling involves installing narrow wooden slats vertically across the wall, creating a sleek and streamlined look. The vertical lines can make your bedroom appear taller, adding a sense of height and spaciousness.

This panelling style works well in minimalist or Scandinavian-inspired interiors, focusing on clean lines and simplicity. The slats can be stained in various finishes to suit your decor, from light oak for a natural, airy feel to dark mahogany for a dramatic effect. Vertical slat panelling can also create a feature wall behind the bed, drawing attention to the focal point of the room.

4. Shiplap Panelling

Shiplap panelling, characterized by its horizontal wooden planks, has grown in popularity over the last year. While it’s often associated with farmhouse or coastal styles, shiplap can be adapted to suit a variety of design aesthetics.

In a modern bedroom, shiplap can be painted in bold colours like deep navy, charcoal, or black for a striking contrast against lighter furniture and decor. Alternatively, a crisp white shiplap can create a fresh backdrop that enhances the room’s natural light. Consider pairing shiplap with contemporary furnishings and minimal accessories to keep the look modern.

5. Mix and Match Panelling

Who says you have to stick to one style of panelling? Mixing and matching different types of wall panels can bring something truly unique to your bedroom. For instance, you could combine vertical slat panelling with a fabric-upholstered section or pair geometric wood patterns with smooth, painted panels.

The key to mixing and matching is maintaining a cohesive colour palette and balancing textures and patterns. This approach allows you to play with contrast and depth, creating a layered and dynamic bedroom. It’s an excellent way to showcase your personality and design preferences, making your bedroom a true reflection of you.

6. Wainscoting with a Modern Twist

Wainscoting, the classic wall panelling that typically covers the lower half of a wall, can be given a modern twist to suit contemporary interiors. Consider flat panels or board-and-batten styles instead of the traditional raised panels. These more straightforward, streamlined designs keep the room fresh and updated.

To modernize wainscoting, you can also experiment with colour. Instead of the usual white or wood tones, try painting the wainscoting in a bold colour that contrasts with the upper wall. For example, deep green wainscoting paired with a light grey wall can create a striking, sophisticated look. This type of panelling is perfect for adding architectural interest and a sense of history to a modern bedroom.