July 16, 2020 | Updated: March 28, 2023
Discover the modern take on wood panelling for walls and bring a touch of warmth to your home with ceramic alternatives.
Despite the traditional associations of wood wall panelling with enclosed and outdated spaces, contemporary options offer a fresh and stylish update. In this blog post, we’ll introduce you to the world of ceramic wood effect wall panelling and show you how to achieve the look without compromising on durability, sustainability, or aesthetics.
Wood panelling has been used in interior design for centuries, dating back to the Renaissance period when elaborate wooden panels were used to decorate walls and ceilings. During the Arts and Crafts movement of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, architects and designers such as Augustus Pugin and William Morris popularised the use of wood panelling as a way to bring traditional craftsmanship and natural materials into the home.
Today, modern wood panelling has evolved to meet the demands of contemporary interior design. With a focus on simplicity and functionality, modern wood panels are often lighter in colour and texture, and they can be used to create a variety of looks, from rustic to sleek and modern. In addition to its natural beauty, wood panelling is also valued for its durability and sustainability, making it a popular choice for eco-conscious homeowners.
The use of wood panelling in interior design has also expanded beyond traditional applications such as walls and ceilings. Modern designers are using wood panels in innovative ways, such as creating statement headboards, accent walls, and even furniture pieces like bookcases and credenzas. Whether used to create a cosy, cabin-like atmosphere or to add a touch of warmth and texture to a minimalist space, wood panelling continues to be a versatile and timeless element of interior design.
From rustic to avant-garde styles, there are endless options and configurations available for wood panelling. However, traditional wood panelling comes with maintenance and durability challenges. Fortunately, ceramic wood effect wall panelling alternatives offer a practical solution with the same aesthetic appeal. Whether you prefer ceramic tiles or agglomerates, or natural wood options, we’ll help you discover the advantages and disadvantages of each type.
Wood panelling is not only visually appealing but also highly functional. The hallway typically serves as the primary area of a home for deliveries and where individuals remove outerwear, making it wise to safeguard walls with protective panelling. Similarly, in the dining room, wainscoting has long been used as a practical method for preventing scuff marks on walls. In the bedroom, wall panelling and a bedboard can be combined to prevent unsightly marks and stains on walls.
The Scandinavians are a great place to start when looking at references for beautiful wall panelling. Alvar Aalto the mid-century Finnish architect was renowned for bringing the woods and forests of his native country into his interiors for both public and private projects. The walls of the homes he designed were considered transition spaces between the outdoors and the indoors. By installing timber wall and ceiling panelling in a vertical alignment the notion of trees and forestry is evoked.
Panelling is the architectural equivalent of a warm embrace. Like fire, the use of wood is a primordial element deeply connected with our notions of home and hearth. Wood panelling in the living room is therefore ideally suited to the chimney breast, whether it be a gas or coal fire. However, a feature wall can also present an ideal opportunity for wood panelling or indeed can be used on more than one wall.
There is no better application of the wood panelling on walls than in the dining room, or even on walls adjacent to the dining table if it is not a separate room. The traditional wainscot and dado rail ensure the protection of walls, avoiding marks from the backs of dining chairs.
The bathroom can also benefit from the aesthetic embellishment of wood wall panelling. Ceramic panelling is recommended in the bathroom to avoid problems with dampness and humidity. Used within a shower enclosure or a bath surround the effect can be enveloping or above a wash hand basin purely decorative. Click here for some visual inspiration and discover 5 amazing bathrooms with wood effect wall tiles.
Within the bedroom, a practical and attractive option is to combine the headboard with wood panelling. The entire wall behind the bed can become a feature, and for an, even more, impacting finish use herringbone or chevron-style timber effect ceramic tiles.
No matter the architectural style of your home, there is a wood panelling option that will elevate your interior design. From vertical or horizontal planks to flat or modelled panels, full or half height, and paired with dado rails or mouldings, there are numerous stylistic options to consider. You can even incorporate shadow details between panels or use a shiplap tongue and groove for a unique touch. To explore all the available options and find the perfect wall panelling for your home, make an appointment to visit our stores today!
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