A hidden gem in the interior design world, wall panels are the perfect way to imbue your room with character and make the space look much more plush that it otherwise would.
Wall panelling also has a range of practical benefits, such as providing impact resistance, noise reduction, insulative qualities and the clever ability to cover uneven walls.
Sounds appealing but you're unsure where to start? Design expert and general manager of sales and marketing at Laminex Sacha Leagh-Murray takes us through her top tips for designing with wall panelling to achieve a variety of popular interior styles.
Industrial
Industrial-style homes are striking and contemporary, and the key to its success is achieving a moody colour palette that elevates the space.
"For wall-panelling in an industrial-style home, I suggest Surround by Laminex's Batten 25 wall-panel (top image)", says Sacha. "This thinner option has a definite warehouse-style, and if painted a cool slate-grey or a deep red would create the ambience of a modern, refined yet industrial home."
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Farmhouse
Farmhouse is a timeless interior theme; cosy and comforting. Simultaneously rustic and contemporary, this rural-style home can incorporate elements from interior styles past and present.
To incorporate wall-panelling into this style, Sacha suggests starting with the kitchen. "Make your kitchen the true heart of the home by installing wall-panelling, which will add interest and really elevate the space," she says. "I recommend painting the wall panelling in a neutral sage-green or taupe to create a warming effect, and incorporating open shelving to create more storage and display candles, art or crockery."
Modern
A great way to add a modern flair into your home, wall panelling can provide texture and depth to your interior space.
"A painted wall panel like that of Surrounds Scallop (above) running as a feature wall throughout the living or bedroom space is the perfect way to infuse a contemporary style, with minimal effort or expenditure," says Sacha.
"Half-height wall panelling creates a design feature that is subtle and modern. If painted in a cool grey, navy or other neutral, on-trend tone, the wall panel can complement existing decor, with a nod to the latest design styles."
Another idea is to swap out your bedhead for wall panelling. A floor-to-ceiling wall panelling in the place of a headboard is a stylish way to elevate your bedroom that's sure to make a statement.
Hamptons
The Hamptons interior style is a classic mix of elegance and relaxed coastal living. Focusing on a fresh white colour palette with accents of timber, wall-panelling is the ideal way to integrate some texture and character into the design, without relying on colour.
"Quintessential to the Hamptons interior style, wall panelling that runs through the hallway is a design nod to the style's origin, creating a more heritage feel to an otherwise bare space," says Sasha.
