Wall Panelling Ideas For Every Room

With natural materials, earthy tones and Japandi chic already making waves in 2025, there’s one design feature that’s proving particularly popular: wall panelling. And while a bit of panelling has the power to totally transform a space, it doesn’t have to be a huge (or expensive) project: read on for some simple wall panelling ideas for every room.

The Best Wall Panelling Ideas, According To Design Experts

Textured Media Walls

(c) Walls and Floors

While you might not want to make your TV the focal point of your living room, a media wall is a brilliant way to seamlessly integrate it into your design – as well as providing plenty of stylish storage. Constructing a media wall, however, requires more than a bit of DIY prowess (or the help of a professional), so it’s a good thing that wall panelling can serve as a much simpler alternative.

‘Building a media wall is an expensive renovation and not something that’s easy to change,’ reflects Summa Costandi, co-founder of Panels By Sofia. ‘In contrast, installing wall panels within the alcoves around your television is a fantastic way to completely refresh the wall.’ So, whether you opt for chic panelling behind your shelves or you decide to create a feature wall by panelling the entire area, this handy trick is guaranteed to give your living room a new lease of life.

Restyled Recesses

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Claire Douglas – DIY & home styling on a budget (@clairedouglasstyling)

For a more minimalist approach, think about adding some texture to smaller surfaces and edges – including your window recesses.

‘Panels don’t have to be used on a large section of the home to make an impact,’ explains Summa. ‘Adding fluted panels to your window recesses is a subtle way to add depth and create a beautiful, curated window display. Consider coordinating the panelling with other areas of the room, too, such as cabinets, alcoves or wall edges.’

Bedroom Backdrops

(c) Walls and Floors

Oversized headboards became a huge design trend last year, and while bold patterns and intricate upholstery is a definite hallmark of English country style, wall panelling can create a sleek, modern alternative.

‘Wall panelling is a great way to add character to a bedroom,’ notes Summa. ‘You can fit full-height wooden panels behind the bed to add a dramatic backdrop, or use half height panels to create a feature wall.’

You can really get creative here, too. ‘Whether you opt for a traditional style of panelling, such as tongue and groove, or contemporary ribbed panels instead, utilising different textures will help add depth to your room. Consider muted, earthy tones to create a cosy and serene sleeping environment.’

Statement Kitchen Cabinets

Yoko Kloeden Design (c) Anna Stathaki

While vibrant tiling and cherry red finishes might be all the rage in the kitchen world, the popularity of natural woods and neutral colours doesn’t show any sign of waning – and if you want to achieve this minimalist, Scandi-style look, panelling is the key.

‘Fitting fluted panels is an easy and affordable way to update your kitchen without a full renovation,’ says Summa. ‘You don’t need to install panels to every cabinet, either: consider adding them underneath your breakfast bar or kitchen island, for example, or panelling a set of lower cabinets for a blend of textures.’

Fireplace Framing

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Kerry Kellett (@klk.interiors)

‘Adding panels to the front of your mantlepiece is a quick and easy way to upgrade your fireplace and transform your living room,’ Summa explains. ‘When painting the panels, choose a shade that blends with the palette of the room for a more seamless look, or make a statement using a contrasting colour.’