Wall Panelling: A Brief History…
Wall panelling in interiors can be dated back to the Gothic period, which dates back to the 12th century and includes the Tudor and Elizabethan periods. Panelling was elaborate, made from wood and stained in dark and warm tones to emphasise the richness of the space. During the English Renaissance, panelling styles became more simple, whereas in the Italian Renaissance, panelling was only used on ceilings.
In the Victorian Era, panelling was first used for practical reasons, protecting walls from scuffs and marks, and so it was traditionally only applied to the lower half of the wall and finished at the dado rail. Later they would be seen as decorative too, as skirting boards, cornicing and ceiling roses all added to the character of a home.
Today panelling is a popular way of adding interest and texture to our interiors, but it still offers the great practical benefits that it always has.
Different Types of Wall Panelling…
There are lots of different types of wall panelling in different styles, these include:
- Wainscoting
- Shiplap
- Flat panel
- Beadboard
- Raised panels
- Tongue and groove
- Board and batten
What are the Benefits of Each Type of Wall Panelling?
While there are some similarities between the different types of panelling, there are also some things that may make them better for you and your home.
Wainscoting panelling is a good idea if you want to just add touches to a wall. It is most commonly used for accents or feature walls; however, it can also be used to hide any walls that are damaged or that you want to renovate.
Those parts of your house that need a clean and smooth look, will probably suit flat panels most. They are incredibly sleek, which creates a look that is not only contemporary and modern but also sleek too.
It comes as no surprise that raised panels are the opposite of flat panels. Those who choose raised panels will usually do so because they want a bold and incredibly noticeable option for their home. Not only are they ideal for homes, but they can also be used in commercial spaces too. Making them a great all-rounder.
Beadboard features long, vertical grooves; that are evenly spaced. They can either be installed for the entire wall height, or they can also be installed partially on the wall too. More often than not, beadboard is a go-to choice for those who have a home that is more rustic in its design.
When compared to some of the other options, shiplap is a more modern choice for your home. This style comes with horizontal boards that overlap each other, creating a weatherproof seal. It is this waterproof seal that makes it a good option for the exterior of your home.
Similar to shiplap is tongue and groove. This particular option connects differently to shiplap and when the panels fit together they have a protruding tongue on one board, which then clicks into the adjacent groove.
How to Install Wall Panelling in Your Home…
It might seem like creating your own wall panelling at home might be tricky, but in fact, once you know the basics, it can be quite straightforward. Unlike traditional panelling found in Victorian homes, today you can use MDF wall panels to create that same great look, at a fraction of the price. Using MDF wall panels also provides all of the benefits that wood panels do too.
To make things as straightforward as possible, consider buying a wall panelling kit. This will provide all of the panels that you need to create your panelled wall, all cut to size and ready to be installed. They can then simply be glued into place and painted to create your finished look.
If you’re planning on creating your own wall panelling to enhance your home, check out our full collection.
