Are you looking to add some depth and character to your living room? Look no further than paneling! This versatile design option can transform any dull space into a vibrant and elegant area. Whether you prefer a contemporary or rustic look, paneling can work wonders for your walls. Here, we’ll explore 10 creative ways to incorporate paneling into your living room.
1. Wallpaper Paneling: Try adding wallpaper to your panels for a bold and modern twist. This option allows you to play with patterns, colors, and textures, creating a unique and personalized look.
2. Fabric Panels: For a softer and more elegant feel, consider using fabric to cover your panels. This creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere, perfect for small gatherings or intimate conversations.
3. Painted Paneling: If you want to keep things simple yet stylish, painting your panels in a monochromatic color is the way to go. This option works well in both contemporary and traditional rooms, adding a touch of sophistication.
4. Horizontal Panels: By using horizontal paneling, you can create the illusion of a wider and taller space. This technique is perfect for smaller rooms, as it enhances the overall sense of height and openness.
5. Wood Paneling: A classic choice, wood paneling adds warmth and character to any living room. Whether you go for a bold and aged look or a more contemporary and refined style, wood panels are always a great addition.
6. Paneling on the Ceiling: Don’t limit yourself to just the walls—consider adding paneling to your ceiling as well. This unique addition creates a stunning feature that adds depth and interest to your living room.
7. Bold Color Panels: For those who want to make a statement, bold colors are the way to go. Opt for vibrant hues like Benjamin Shaw’s latest trends, or choose a color that coordinates with the rest of your space.
8. Rustic Paneling: If you’re going for a more rustic look, consider using weathered wood panels. This creates a cozy and lived-in feel, perfect for those who want to add some country charm to their living room.
9. Paneling as a Privacy Screen: If your living room shares space with another area, such as a dining or working area, use paneling to create separation and privacy. This allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds while maintaining a cohesive and stylish look.
10. Mixed Paneling: Don’t be afraid to mix and match different paneling options for a truly unique look. Whether you combine wood and wallpaper or fabric and paint, experimenting with different materials and shapes can add personality and character to your space.
Adding paneling to your living room is a practical and stylish way to enhance your space. Whether you choose a contemporary wallpaper option or go for a rustic wooden look, paneling offers endless possibilities to transform your walls. So, why wait? Start exploring these paneling ideas today and bring new life to your living room!
Living room paneling ideas
If you’re looking to add some practical character to your living room, paneling is a great option. It not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the space but also adds a touch of functionality. Whether you want to create a contemporary look or give your living room a more traditional feel, there are many paneling styles and materials to choose from.
Wooden paneling
Wooden paneling is the most common and popular choice for living room paneling. It adds warmth and texture to the space and can be painted in any color to coordinate with the existing interior. Whether you choose horizontal or vertical paneling, wooden panels create a timeless look that works well in both traditional and modern homes.
Fabric paneling
For a softer and more cozy feel, fabric paneling is a great alternative. It can be used to cover walls or as a feature on a specific wall. Using fabric panels adds depth to the space and creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Coordinate the fabric with your existing furniture and decor to create a cohesive look in your living room.
Modern paneling styles
If you want to give your living room a modern twist, consider using paneling with unique shapes and designs. Instead of traditional rectangular or square panels, opt for panels with geometric shapes or asymmetrical patterns. This will add visual interest and create a contemporary look in your space.
Painting paneling
If you have existing paneling in your living room but want to give it a fresh look, painting is a great option. Choose a bold and vibrant color to create a statement in your space. Alternatively, you can go for a monochromatic look by using a lighter or darker shade of the existing paneling color. Painting paneling allows you to change the entire feel of your living room without completely replacing the panels.
Adding paneling to a wider area
If you have a larger living room and want to create a focal point, consider adding paneling to a wider area, such as one wall or even the ceiling. This creates a unique and eye-catching feature that will make your living room stand out. You can choose a contrasting color or a different paneling style to create a visually appealing contrast.
Creating privacy with paneling
In addition to adding style and character to your living room, paneling can also be used to create privacy. If you have an open concept living space or want to divide your living room into different zones, paneling can be a great solution. You can use paneling as a partition to create separate seating areas or to hide certain parts of the room.
In conclusion, paneling is a versatile and practical addition to any living room. Whether you choose wooden, fabric, or modern paneling, it can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your space and add a touch of functionality. Consider your lifestyle and the overall look and feel you want to achieve when picking the right paneling option for your living room.
1 Use square paneling for a neat geometric look
If you’re looking to add some visual interest to your living room while also creating a sense of order and structure, square paneling can be a great choice. The horizontal lines created by the paneling can help to visually widen the space, making it feel more open and spacious. This can be especially beneficial in small living rooms or rooms with low ceilings.
One way to use square paneling is to create a feature wall. Choose a wall that you want to make a focal point and cover it with square panels. This can be done using wooden panels, painted panels, or even fabric panels. The color and finish of the paneling will depend on the overall style and design of your living room. For a more contemporary look, consider using monochromatic panels in a bold color. For a rustic or aged look, wooden panels can work well.
In addition to being decorative, square paneling can also have practical benefits. If you have a seating area in your living room, adding paneling behind the seating can create a sense of privacy and intimacy. It can also help to block out direct sunlight if your seating area is near a window.
Another way to use square paneling is to enhance the existing architecture of your living room. For example, if you have a fireplace or a built-in bookshelf, adding paneling around these features can create a sense of symmetry and cohesion. This can also help to draw attention to these areas, making them more of a focal point.
When picking the right square panels for your living room, consider the overall color scheme and style of the room. If you have a bright and vibrant color palette, you may want to choose panels in a neutral or muted color to balance out the boldness. On the other hand, if your living room has a more contemporary and modern design, you can be more adventurous with your paneling color choices.
Some popular paneling choices include Benjamin Moore’s “Petunias” and “July.” These colors can add an elegant and modern touch to your living room, while also creating a sense of depth and height with their rich tones. Using different shades of the same color can also create a subtle yet interesting effect.
In summary, square paneling is a versatile and practical way to add character and style to your living room. Whether you prefer a contemporary or rustic look, there are many paneling styles and designs to choose from. Consider the color scheme and overall style of your living room when selecting your paneling, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different colors and finishes to create a unique and personalized look.
2 Frame your artwork
If you have a collection of artwork that you want to display in your living room, framing it can be a great way to add a touch of elegance and style. Framed artwork not only enhances the visual appeal of your space but also gives it a more polished and coordinated look.
When choosing frames for your artwork, consider the style and color scheme of your room. Vibrant frames can add a pop of color to a neutral space, while contemporary frames can complement a modern interior. Additionally, make sure to select frames that can withstand the conditions of your living room, such as frames that are resistant to moisture and direct sunlight.
Creating a gallery wall is a popular option for displaying artwork in living rooms. This arrangement allows you to showcase multiple pieces at once and creates the illusion of a larger space. You can mix and match frames of different styles and shapes to add visual interest to your wall. Consider using frames of varying heights to add depth to your wall.
If you have a small living room, you may want to consider using fabric panels instead of traditional frames. Fabric panels can be hung on the wall to create a unique and cozy atmosphere. They are also great for adding privacy to open-concept spaces or dividing the room into different areas.
In addition to framing artwork, you can also use decorative panels to enhance the look of your living room. These panels come in many different styles and materials, such as wood, metal, and even glass. Whether you prefer a rustic or a modern look, there are panels available to suit your taste. Adding panels to your walls can make them the focal point of the room and add a sense of depth and texture.
To create a contemporary and stylish look, consider using paneling on the ceiling as well. Ceiling paneling can make a room feel taller and wider, and it adds an interesting visual element to your living room. Coordinate the paneling on the ceiling with the walls to create a cohesive look.
When it comes to paneling in living rooms, the possibilities are endless. Whether you want to add character, privacy, or simply enhance the look of your space, paneling can be a great addition to any living room. So why not try out some of the latest paneling trends and see what works best for you?
3 Keep it minimal
For a more modern and understated look, keeping your living room paneling minimal is a great option. This style works well in contemporary interiors and can create a bright and airy feel in the space.
One way to achieve a minimal look is by using painted wooden panels. You can choose a color that coordinates with the existing color scheme of your room or make a bold statement with a vibrant hue. Painting the panels in a lighter color than the walls can also help enhance the illusion of height in the room.
If you want to add some texture and depth to the space, you can opt for paneling with wider or smaller panels. The choice of panel shape can also play a role in creating a minimalist look. Horizontal panels can make the room appear wider and more spacious, while vertical panels can add height to the space.
In addition to the visual appeal, minimal paneling can also add practicality to your living room. It can provide a degree of privacy and help create distinct zones in an open-plan living area. For example, you could use paneled walls to separate the seating area from other parts of the room.
The latest trend in minimal paneling is the use of wallpaper. This can be a great option for those who want to add a decorative feature to their living room without the commitment of painting. There are many wallpaper options available, from bright and bold patterns to more subtle and understated designs. Whether you choose a contemporary or rustic wallpaper, it can add character and charm to your living room.
To keep the minimalist look intact, it’s important to be mindful of the overall design of your living room. Make sure the paneling complements the other elements in the space, such as the furniture and decor. By coordinating the paneling with the existing features, you can create a cohesive and harmonious look in your living room.
In conclusion, keeping your living room paneling minimal is a timeless addition to any home. Whether you prefer a contemporary or rustic style, minimal paneling can work with your lifestyle and enhance the overall feel of your living room. So take some time to consider the options available and pick the perfect paneling for your space.
4 Paint living room paneling a neutral color
If you want to add a touch of modernity to your living room paneling, painting it a neutral color is a great option. This technique allows you to create a contemporary and sophisticated atmosphere while still maintaining the depth and character of the paneling.
Whether your paneling is made of wood, wallpaper, or fabric, painting it a neutral color can make a big difference. By choosing a color such as beige, gray, or white, you can create a monochromatic look that will work well with any style of décor.
A neutral color also has the advantage of being able to make small spaces look bigger. By painting the paneling in a light color, you can create the illusion of more height and a brighter atmosphere.
Another benefit of painting living room paneling a neutral color is that it allows you to easily change the overall look and feel of your space. If you decide you want a bolder or more vibrant design, it’s as simple as painting over the neutral color with a more decorative hue.
When it comes to picking the right color, you can’t go wrong with neutral shades from Benjamin Moore like Revere Pewter or Edgecomb Gray. These colors have become popular choices for paneling due to their versatility and ability to complement a wide range of furnishings.
5 Create a monochrome look
If you want to make a bold statement in your living room, creating a monochromatic look with paneling can be a great option. This elegant and timeless design choice will add depth and character to your space.
When it comes to choosing the right content for your monochrome paneling, there are several options. One of the most popular choices is to go with a wallpaper panel in a monochromatic print. This works well for both modern and traditional spaces, creating a cohesive and stylish look.
Another option is to use a vertical panel design, which can make your walls appear taller and create the illusion of a wider space. Benjamin Shaw, a lifestyle and interior design expert, states that this technique works particularly well in rooms with low ceilings. By adding vertical paneling to your walls, you can give the room a sense of height and make it feel more open.
For a more rustic look, you can also consider using wooden panels in a monochromatic color scheme. This adds a touch of warmth and natural texture to your living room, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Whether you choose to paint the panels in a monochrome shade or leave them bare for a more aged look, wooden paneling can add character and charm to your space.
In addition to the walls, you can also incorporate monochromatic paneling on other surfaces in your living room. For example, you can use the same monochrome wallpaper or wooden panels on your fireplace surround, creating a cohesive and coordinated look.
When it comes to seating and other furniture in your living room, it’s important to coordinate them with your monochrome paneling. Choose upholstery fabrics or leather in monochromatic colors to create a cohesive and stylish look. You can also add vibrant accent pillows or throws in the same monochromatic color scheme to add pops of color and personality to your space.
In summary, creating a monochrome look with paneling is a great way to add depth and character to your living room. Whether you choose wallpaper, wooden panels, or a combination of both, this design choice will add elegance and style to your space. Coordinate your furniture and accessories with your monochrome paneling to create a cohesive and stylish look. Experiment with different shades and textures to find the perfect monochromatic look for your living room.
6 Use a unique fabric panel
Adding a fabric panel to your living room can be a creative and unique way to enhance the look and feel of the space. Whether you choose a bright and colorful fabric or a more subtle and elegant one, using fabric panels can add depth and texture to your walls.
One of the great things about using fabric panels is that they can work well with both contemporary and rustic interiors. You can choose from a wide range of fabric styles, shapes, and colors to create the desired atmosphere in your living room.
Using fabric panels can also be a practical addition to your space. They can provide privacy by acting as a curtain or room divider. Fabric panels can also help to insulate the room, keeping it warmer in colder conditions and cooler in hotter ones.
Creating fabric panels is easy. You can choose a fabric that matches your existing furniture or wallpaper, or go for something completely different to create a unique look. There are many online tutorials and DIY guides available to help you with this project.
When picking a fabric for your panel, make sure it is durable and easy to clean. You want a fabric that can withstand the wear and tear of daily life, especially if you have kids or pets. Consider using fade-resistant and stain-resistant fabrics to ensure that your fabric panel stays looking fresh and vibrant for a long time.
To install your fabric panel, you can use a wooden frame or hang it directly on the wall using hooks or nails. You can also attach the fabric panel to a lightweight board and lean it against the wall.
Using a fabric panel in your living room is a great way to add a twist to the traditional paneled walls. It can create a unique and contemporary look while still maintaining the character of the space.
Here are some key points to remember when using a unique fabric panel:
- Choose a fabric that matches your existing decor or goes well with the desired look.
- Consider the durability and cleanability of the fabric.
- Install the fabric panel using a wooden frame, hooks, nails, or by attaching it to a lightweight board.
- Use online tutorials or DIY guides if you need help with the installation process.
- Make sure the fabric panel adds depth and texture to your living room while maintaining its functionality.
Whether you want to make a bold statement or create a subtle addition to your living area, using a fabric panel allows you to get creative and add a personal touch to your space. So go ahead and explore the latest fabric trends, choose a fabric that reflects your lifestyle and taste, and have fun creating a unique fabric panel for your living room!
7 Coordinate with your wallpaper
If you have wallpaper in your living room and you’re looking for a perfect way to coordinate it with your paneling, this is a great option. Adding paneled walls to your space can enhance the overall design and feel, while using wallpaper can add a vibrant and decorative touch. Whether you choose bold and bright wallpaper or a more subtle and elegant pattern, coordinating it with your paneling can create a cohesive and stylish look.
One way to coordinate your wallpaper and paneling is by using the same color palette. For example, if you have a wallpaper with shades of blue and green, you could choose wooden paneling in a similar color or a complementary shade. This will create a harmonious and cohesive atmosphere in your living room.
Another option is to pick a wallpaper pattern that complements the style of your paneling. For instance, if you have horizontal wooden paneling, you could choose a wallpaper with vertical stripes or geometric shapes. This contrast in patterns will create visual interest and depth in your room.
Furthermore, consider the height of your paneling when coordinating with your wallpaper. If your paneling only goes halfway up the wall, you can choose a wallpaper with a bold pattern for the upper half to add drama and make the room feel taller. On the other hand, if your paneling goes all the way to the ceiling, a more subtle wallpaper pattern can create a balanced and cohesive look.
In addition to coordinating colors and patterns, you can also use wallpaper to create the illusion of a wider or smaller space. For example, if your living room is small and you want to make it appear bigger, you can choose a wallpaper with light colors and a minimal pattern. This will give the impression of a more spacious and open room. Conversely, if your living room is large and you want to create a cozy and intimate atmosphere, you can choose a wallpaper with darker colors and a busier pattern. This will make the room feel more enclosed and inviting.
When coordinating your wallpaper and paneling, it’s important to consider your own personal style and preferences. Whether you want a bold and dramatic look or a more subtle and elegant feel, there are endless possibilities for creating a cohesive and stylish living room.
8 Use exposed wood paneling for a rustic effect
If you want to create a rustic atmosphere in your living room, exposed wood paneling is a great option. This style of paneling adds a natural and aged look to your space, enhancing the sense of depth and adding character to your walls. It works well in both contemporary and traditional spaces, making it a versatile choice for any home.
When picking the color of your wooden panels, consider the overall design of your room. You can choose a bold and dark tone to create a dramatic effect, or opt for a lighter and more monochromatic look for a subtle touch. Using aged or weathered wood can also help achieve a rustic feel.
Whether you have an existing panel or want to add new ones, exposed wood paneling can make a statement. The natural colors and textures of the wood can coordinate well with other elements in your living room, such as furniture and fabric choices.
To create a wider and more open feel, you can use exposed wood paneling on the ceiling as well. This creates a seamless look and adds a touch of elegance to the space.
Exposed wood paneling works best in spaces where you want to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. It can be used in various areas of the living room, such as behind the seating area or as a focal point on one wall. Additionally, using wood paneling can help add insulation and create a sense of privacy.
Adding exposed wood paneling is a timeless trend that can enhance the overall look and feel of your living room. Whether you prefer a modern or traditional style, this type of paneling can work well with any design. It creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, making your living room a comfortable and welcoming space for both you and your guests.
9 Be bold with color
If you want to add a pop of color to your living room paneling, consider painting the panels in a bold and vibrant shade. This can create a stunning focal point in the room and make a bold statement. Whether you choose to paint all the panels in the same color or experiment with different hues, adding color to your paneling can completely transform the look and feel of the space.
When choosing a color for your paneled walls, consider the overall design and style of your living room. If you have a contemporary space, you can opt for bright and vibrant colors like blues, yellows, or pinks. For more traditional interiors, deep and rich shades like navy or burgundy can add depth and a touch of elegance.
Another option for adding color to your paneling is to use wallpaper. There are many wallpaper designs available that can coordinate with your existing furniture and decor. You can choose a patterned wallpaper to create an illusion of texture, or a solid color wallpaper to create a more modern and clean look.
If you’re feeling particularly bold, you can even consider using fabric to cover your paneling. This can create a unique and decorative look that adds both color and texture to your space. Make sure to choose a fabric that works well with your lifestyle and is easy to clean.
In addition to painting or wallpapering your panels, you can also consider adding a contrasting color to the ceiling. This can create a sense of height and enhance the overall atmosphere of the room. To balance out the boldness of the color, you can choose softer neutral shades for the rest of the walls and seating.
Adding color to your living room paneling is a great way to make a statement and create a space that reflects your personal style. Whether you choose to go bold and vibrant or opt for more subtle and muted shades, the choice is yours. Have fun with the process and let your creativity shine!
10 Pick large panels for a dramatic effect
When it comes to adding character to your living room, choosing the right paneling can make a big impact. Opting for larger panels can create a rustic and wider feel to your space. It’s a great way to add depth and dimension to your walls, making them a focal point of the room.
One popular option is shiplap paneling, which is a type of wooden paneling that can be used to create a farmhouse-style look. Whether painted or left natural, shiplap adds texture and warmth to any space. These panels are usually horizontally installed and create a timeless and cozy atmosphere in your living room.
Another option is to choose aged wooden panels. These panels have a weathered and distressed look that works well with both rustic and contemporary interiors. The aged appearance adds a touch of history and character to your living room, creating a unique and personalized space.
If you want to go for a more modern and elegant style, consider choosing large painted panels. Painting your paneling with a bold color can create a striking effect in your living room. Benjamin Moore’s “Hale Navy” is a popular choice for this type of project, as it adds depth and drama to the space.
In addition to painted panels, wallpaper is also a great option for adding both color and pattern to your living room. There are many wallpaper styles available with different patterns and designs that can coordinate with the rest of your decor. Whether you want a vibrant and contemporary look or a more subtle and decorative feature, wallpaper works well with large panels to create a bold and eye-catching effect.
By choosing larger panels for your living room, you can create an illusion of a bigger space. This is especially useful for small rooms or homes with low ceilings. The larger panels draw the eye upward, creating the illusion of a higher ceiling and a more spacious area.
When it comes to seating arrangements, large panels can also be used to create a defined and intimate seating area. By painting or wallpapering a wall with large panels, you can create a focal point that directs the eye towards a specific area. This works well in open-plan living rooms where you want to create distinct zones.
In summary, picking large panels for your living room can have a dramatic effect on the overall look and feel of the space. Whether you choose rustic wooden panels, aged panels, painted panels, or wallpaper, be sure to select panels that complement your existing decor and coordinate with the latest trends and styles.
How do you panel a living room
If you want to add some character and depth to your living room, paneling is a great option. Whether you have a small or larger space, paneling can work well to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Picking the right panels
When paneling your living room, you have many options to choose from. Wooden panels are a popular choice for creating a rustic or contemporary look. You can also consider using wallpaper or adding decorative panels to your existing walls.
Adding color and depth
One of the great things about paneling is that it allows you to add color and depth to your space. You can paint the panels in a vibrant color that coordinates with your overall design scheme. This can make your living room feel brighter and more energetic.
Another option is to use a darker color to create a more cozy and intimate atmosphere. Dark wooden panels can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your space. It’s all about finding the right color that suits your personal taste and lifestyle.
Creating an illusion of space
If you have a small living room, paneling can help create an illusion of space. By choosing panels that are wider or using vertical paneling on the walls or ceiling, you can make the room feel larger and more open. This is a great trick for making a small room feel more spacious and inviting.
Coordinating with other elements
When paneling your living room, it’s important to consider how it will coordinate with other elements in the space. You want to make sure that the paneling complements your furniture, flooring, and other decorative pieces.
For example, if you have a bright and contemporary space, you might consider using white or light-colored wooden panels. This can help create a clean and modern look. On the other hand, if you have a more rustic or traditional style, you could opt for panels with an aged or weathered finish.
Adding seating and storage
Paneling can also be a practical addition to your living room. You can incorporate built-in seating or storage space into the panels. This allows you to make the most of the available space and keep your living room organized and clutter-free.
Whether you choose to panel your entire living room or just a specific area, paneling is a great way to add practical character to your space. It can create depth, add color, and enhance the overall atmosphere of your room. So why not consider paneling your living room to transform it into a cozy and inviting retreat?
Does paneling make a living room look smaller
Paneling in a living room can either enhance the size of the space or make it appear smaller. The effect largely depends on the design, color, and placement of the paneling.
Rustic wooden paneling
Rustic wooden paneling has a distinct charm and can add character to a living room. However, it can make a small living room feel even smaller. The dark and heavy nature of wooden paneling can create a closed-off atmosphere, which can be overwhelming in a small space.
Painted or bright colored paneling
On the other hand, painted or bright colored paneling can create a vibrant and bold look for a living room. By choosing lighter colors or painting the paneling in a bright shade, you can visually expand the area and make it feel more spacious. Lighter paneling can reflect more light, giving the illusion of a larger room.
Contemporary paneling
Contemporary paneling, such as shiplap or geometric shapes, can work well in small living rooms. The clean lines and modern designs can create an open and airy feel. By using lighter colors or monochromatic schemes, you can maintain a sleek and minimalistic look that doesn’t overwhelm the space.
Decorative panels
Adding decorative panels to a small living room can also be a perfect option. Whether it’s wallpaper, fabric panels, or feature ceilings, the right choice can enhance the depth and create an interesting visual effect. By applying these panels strategically, you can draw the eye upwards and make the room feel taller.
Creating the right balance
When it comes to paneling in a small living room, creating the right balance is key. If you choose to panel the walls, consider leaving some areas unpainted or using lighter shades to maintain a sense of spaciousness. It’s also important to choose paneling that complements the overall style and color scheme of the room.
In conclusion, paneling can make a living room look smaller if not chosen and used wisely. It’s crucial to consider the size, color, and design of the paneling to create a space that feels inviting and open, rather than cramped and closed-off. Take the time to explore different paneling options and visualize how they will work in your unique living room.