Cladding is a great way to add texture and interest to any space, but can cladding work in modern interiors? While cladding walls in timber may evoke images of retro 70s kitchens, when done right, clad walls can look really striking in contemporary homes. Read on to find out everything you need to know about using cladding in your modern property…
What is Wall Cladding?
In the most simple form, cladding refers to applying a particular material to a wall to create a ‘second skin’. Cladding is often used for aesthetics, to create a particular look, but in some cases it’s used for practical purposes because of the many benefits that it has to offer.
Not only does wall cladding look striking, it can also provide additional heat insulation, cover up uneven walls and provide protection to walls too. It’s also a really quick way to instantly elevate your interiors, adding a feature wall, or completely transforming your whole space.
Cladding Styles…
There are lots of different cladding styles to consider. Here are some of the most popular options for modern interiors:
Pine V-Groove Matchboard Panelling
Matchboard panelling can be used for both structural and internal joinery and offers a high-end finish. This style of cladding can be used internally to create a seamless and simple full panelled wall. Perfectly slotting together, the v-groove design makes this sort of panelling easy to fit, for a professional finish.
If you are planning on introducing this type of cladding to your modern interior, run the boards the full length of the wall, from floor to ceiling. Opt for a feature wall and paint it a fresh neutral shade such as white or grey, for a contemporary beach house feel.
Shiplap Cladding
Shiplap cladding is another super simplified way of introducing panelling to your home. Similar in style to matchboard panelling, shiplap panelling is incredibly durable which is why it’s often used to clad sheds. It can be a great choice for interior cladding too though, as it can be primed and painted any colour.
Premium V-Groove Matchboard Panelling
Another great option for cladding in modern spaces is to allow the beauty of the natural material to take centre stage. If you want to add texture, warmth and interest to your space, consider staining your cladding instead of painting it. If you are going to stain your cladding, try the Premium V-Groove Matchboard Panelling which is made of responsibly sourced redwood timber. The tongue and groove finish makes it easy to fit, and the grain of the wood looks truly striking, particularly once brought out with an oil or stain.
Instead of laying your Matchboard Cladding vertically, try it horizontally for a contemporary finish. Use a simple oil to seal the wood, but otherwise let its natural beauty shine through.
Inspiration for Modern Interior Wall Cladding…
Interior wall cladding can be used almost anywhere in the home. There are some spaces where this sort of cladding has more of an impact than others though, elevating the look and feel of the space, while also offering practicalities too.
Try cladding your hallway, for a striking look when you first open the door. Matchboard cladding or shiplap would work well here. Hallways are a great space to clad, as they often have to work hard within our homes, particularly entrance halls.
Typically high traffic areas, often muddy boots and even muddy dogs are brought through the entrance hall on a daily basis. Not only will cladding look great here, but it will also protect the walls and can be easily wiped clean.
Another great space to consider using wall cladding is in the kitchen. A great alternative to tiles, wall cladding is much quicker to fit and can easily be updated with a lick of paint. Similarly, wall cladding would work well in bathrooms too. As long as it’s sealed to stop moisture from getting in, wall cladding is great for a modern bathroom where you want to keep the look simple yet impactful.
Wall cladding is incredibly versatile and can work really well in modern interiors. Whether you just clad one wall, or you choose to max out on the benefits of this fantastic material, wall cladding will instantly elevate your space and offers loads of practical benefits too.
