Creating Different Moods With Wood Wall Panels

Despite the onward march of interior design trends that use plastics and metals as their go-to, wood has always had a natural beauty and style that works well in every single home - no matter how you choose to utilise it.

Wood wall panelling is no exception and makes for an adaptable and versatile addition to your interior design plans, in almost every single room.

It’s versatile in that it will fit into modern aesthetics as well as classical design, and can be coloured and painted in many different shades and tones to create that perfect ambience.

Whether you’re renovating a living area and want a space imbued with warmth and a relaxing vibe, or you’re decorating a teenager’s bedroom and need something adaptable that will be strong enough to withstand wall-mounted TVs, or gaming equipment this is a great solution.

Wood and its impact on the mood of your home

Wood finishes - whether that’s natural wood or wood panels, can have a significant impact on the mood and atmosphere within your home. There are lots of different wood finishes that will create different moods.

For instance, lighter finishes often create an airy and open feel - so work well in kitchen or dining areas, whilst the darker finishes create more formal and elegant atmospheres - again, this would work well in a dining area, but also for entrance halls, or even living rooms and bedrooms.

Thinking about choosing a wood finish? Take care to consider the overall design of the room it’s going to be going into. For example, a modern space in a new home will probably look better with lighter-finished wood, whereas an older home with more traditional decor may perhaps benefit more from darker, warmer finishes.

Rough textured wood finishes have a more rustic and cosy atmosphere, whilst smooth, satiny light-coloured wood creates an exceptionally smart and refined mood.

Curious to know more? We’ve handpicked some experts to give us the lowdown on why wood wall panels should be your interior design choice no matter what your colour schemes or style choices are.

Why do wood wall panels work so well?

“Whether you want to go classic or contemporary with shiplap or wainscoting looks, there's no better way to add more design interest to a room than with this wall covering. Plus, be it wood or MDF that you choose, wall panels can add to the natural shape of a room, enhance space and even insulate and protect walls.

This historical deco feature is timeless and sure to work in the bedroom, living room or even hallway space. Installing new DIY wall panelling, be that shiplap, wainscoting, or a simple chair rail, can be a good way to return the character to a home that has been stripped back, to fill in gaps in an existing scheme, or to help a new addition to blend in.”

- Melanie Griffiths writing for Real Homes

What’s one of the most important considerations for choosing wood wall panels?

“Adding character, charm and personality to a property, DIY wall panelling hasn't just taken over people's homes, but social media feeds too. Just browse Instagram, TikTok or Pinterest and you'll see some rather incredible before and after reveals, showcasing just how effective these decorative wall coverings can be.

It's important to choose the style you think will best suit your home. Mouldings include grand period designs, tongue and groove, traditional shaker-style, Jacobean-style grid, or dado style. Decorative slat wall panels are also popular”

- Lisa Joyner writing for House Beautiful

What are two benefits of installing wood wall panelling?

“1. Easy to Install - Renovating your house is a massive decision, as it requires time and money. However, wood panels have an easy installation process, almost similar to assembling Legos. You can even install the panels yourself. Depending on the size of your property, you can finish the entire project in less than a week. Just research the material that would be perfect for your interior and start panelling away.

2. Energy-Efficient - Wood is a natural insulator; this is one of the main reasons many homeowners decide to get wood panelling. It protects them against the harsh cold and does not heat up in summers, maintaining optimal temperatures for your property in all seasons. Wood panelling is an energy-efficient upgrade to your home as its insulating properties will reduce your energy usage – you won’t have to switch ACs and heaters on for entire days. As a result, you cut back on your bills and can save money.

Wood is also an excellent sound absorber, making it perfect for individuals looking for quietness and privacy in areas like home offices and bedrooms. This is also why many commercial buildings opt for wood wall panelling. If you live in a busy area and are tired of the incessant noise, wood panelling can turn your house into the peaceful place you dream of.”

- Alex, writing for Fresh Design Blog

How can wood wall panels be used to create a stylish interior that sells a home?

“Wood wall panels have the capability to enhance the appeal of a home and potentially contribute to a house’s marketability when installed correctly. Introducing an accent wall can help draw attention to a specific room or area, adding a touch of luxury. Custom designed wood panels can make a strong visual impact with intricate patterns and even add practicality to a space with functional elements such as shelving. Remember, the key is to create a harmonious and inviting atmosphere that appeals to a broad range of potential buyers”

- Cory Kammerdiener, Owner and Broker of New Home Program

How can wood panels be used to enhance an interior?

“They add warmth, texture, as well as acoustical value. If can create a focal point with a wooden accent wall or for flooring. It can be used for decorative elements like room dividers for a cohesive and inviting atmosphere. I suggest them to clients that want a warm aesthetic with a touch of texture”

- Blake Bellamy, Sales Specialist for Seven Custom Homes

How can wood wall paneling help with covering up damage to homes caused by accidents and disasters?

“After the remediation process has been completed, and clearance testing done if needed, the any necessary repairs to the drywall would need to be made. Water damage and mold especially must always be properly mitigated, and this includes removal of affected materials, and proper replacement of these materials. Wood panels, or any other decorative accent, aren’t used to “hide” the damage. They are used to enhance the look of the room.

Wood wall panels could be used as a decorative component rather than a plain painted wall. And the perfect time to do any upgrades , like adding wood panels, is after you have some type of disaster in your home as construction is already taking place and it’s usually a small out of pocket additional to have the upgrades done.”

- Lisa Jordan from accentamerican.com

How Can We Bring More Sustainability When Using Wood?

Sustainable experts at Illuminem offer their take: “Compared to other forms of building materials like wood, plastic and stone, wood is one of the most renewable resources. However, that doesn’t mean that we can’t make a push to stop deforestation.

As of now, in around 300 years from now, if there isn’t a reduction in deforestation, then there will not be any trees left to utilize for wall panels, or any other type of building materials. A concentrated effort needs to be made to make it illegal to urbanize dense forests, such as the Amazon.

- Sustainable Experts, Illuminem

How do you balance sustainability and style when choosing natural materials for staging a home?"

“At Decorus Home Staging, we're all about blending sustainability with a dash of style. We carefully pick natural materials that not only look smashing but are kind to our planet as well. Our focus? Robust, sustainably sourced bits and bobs that spruce up any space while treading lightly on the earth. What's more, we've launched our very own line of reusable furniture covers, slashing our reliance on plastic and dramatically extending the life of our furnishings. This savvy approach allows us to craft eco-chic staged homes that truly speak to the heart of environmentally aware buyers.”

- Shane Lorenz of Decorus Home Staging

How does the use of wood impact the overall aesthetic of your properties?

“The use of wood in interior design can elevate a home. It creates a warm aesthetic, giving texture and depth to a space. We also love how it can cover a multitude of styles from rustic to modern- it all works! It is to homes what denim is to our wardrobes!”

- Heather Shields of Be New Orleans

How can buyers be confident that wood wall panels are eco-friendly?

"Buyers can feel assured about the eco-friendliness of wood wall panels by checking if they're sourced from sustainably managed forests or made from reclaimed wood. Certifications like FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) are also a solid thumbs-up, as they guarantee the wood has been harvested in a way that's kind to our planet."

- Jason Fox, Owner and Realtor at The Madrona Group

How can wood wall panels create a vintage vibe in your home?

“Mixing vintage with modern adds warmth and authenticity to any space and not just with furnishings. Adding texture to your walls with wood panels is a simple, modern way to evoke a vintage vibe.”

- Katrina, owner of Charlotte Vintage