Popular Wall Panel Types and Creative Ideas for 2024

The fields of architecture and design are constantly evolving, presenting new trends and innovations. In 2024, wall panel design is once again on the cusp of change, bringing us a series of eye-catching new materials and design concepts. Wall panels, as an integral part of interior design, are redefining our understanding of beauty and functionality with a new look.

There are so many different styles of wall panel on the market that it can sometimes be difficult to distinguish one from the other. Many paneling styles are confused with the Shaker style, incorrectly labeled as Jacobean, and so on. If you’re not sure what type of wall panel style you’re looking for, we’ve listed the most popular terms to help you.

This article takes an in-depth look at the types of wall panels that will be popular in 2024, from unique materials to avant-garde designs, taking you through the most exciting trends in architectural design.

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I. Wall panel types

1. Shaker style/Slatted wall panels

One of the latest additions to the wood paneling trend is wood paneling walls. This originated from acoustic panels, which help the spread of sound within a room due to its sound-enhancing properties, and are also used in decorative interior designs to enhance the visual appeal and acoustic performance of indoor spaces! Wood slats are plywood, usually ½ inch thick, or ¾ inch if you want a bold style.

(1) Materials

Slatted wall panels are usually made from solid wood, MDF, PVC and other materials. Solid wood slat wall panels offer the natural wood grain, while MDF or PVC have the advantage of a smoother surface that is easier to paint and clean.

(2) Design and style

Slatted wall panel can be designed in a variety of styles, with the option of horizontal strips installed horizontally or vertical strips installed lengthwise, or they can be mixed to create unique patterns and effects. The width and spacing of the slats can also be adjusted according to design needs.

(3) Applicable scenarios

Slatted wall panels are suitable for a variety of indoor environments, including living rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms, hallways, and more. It can not only be used on the entire wall, but can also be used as a decoration for specific areas such as background walls and bedside backgrounds. Also installed as a feature wall or around other architectural features such as chimney breasts and wall mounted TV cabinets.

(4) Installation method

Installing slatted wall panel is relatively simple and usually involves fastening directly to the wall. Before installation, you need to ensure that the wall surface is flat. You can choose to use glue, nails or screws to fix it.

*Tips

Any holes or existing imperfections in the wall should be filled before installation to achieve a smooth, level surface. This is to allow the adhesive to adhere properly if you choose this installation method.

2. Boards and battens wall panels

The application of placing narrow strips of wood slats over the joints of wider strips of wood slats is known as “board and batten” paneling, and its pronounced contours create attractive shadow gaps on the exterior or exterior effect.

Because slat cladding is low cost and relatively easy to assemble, historically it was often applied to the exterior of barns to add strength and insulation, and to this day is sometimes referred to as “barn panel.”

“Board and batten” panel often refers to a hybrid design that combines large flat panels with strip construction to create a unique wall effect. This design method is often used for wall decoration, bringing layering and visual appeal to the space.

Here are some features and design elements about board and batten panel:

(1) Strip elements slats arranged horizontally or vertically

Add horizontal or vertical strip elements, such as wooden slats or MDF slats, to the main panel to create patterned and decorative effects.

(2) Design diversity

“Board and batten” wall panel designs can be very diverse. Strip elements can appear in different forms and arrangements, such as vertical, horizontal, cross, etc., forming unique geometric patterns, injecting unique personality and artistic sense into the wall, and can be customized according to different design concepts and style requirements. .

(3) Matching of colors and materials

A rich mix of colors and materials can be achieved by choosing boards and battens in different colors, or using different materials, such as solid wood, MDF, PVC, etc.

(4) Space definition and key areas

This design approach can be used to define a space, such as using “board and batten” wall panels as a backdrop, or to highlight a specific area, such as a TV wall or bedside backdrop.

3. MDF slat wall panels

This type of batten consists of 10~12 cm wide slats placed side by side on the wall. They are usually placed at the height of the dado rails, but they can also be installed from floor to ceiling. If you want to try something different, you can also place the panel strips horizontally on the wall. This style of wall paneling is classic, it is often found in hallways, bathrooms and kitchens.

(1) Material composition

MDF is a board with uniform density formed by high temperature and pressure treatment of wood fiber and resin. MDF batten wall panels are typically made from MDF boards and feature a batten or strip design.

(2) Appearance and design

MDF slat wall panels come in a variety of looks and designs and can have horizontal or vertical strip patterns, or they can be checkered, rectangular or other geometric shapes. This design brings texture and layering to the wall.

(3) Applicable scenarios

MDF slatted wall panels are widely used in living rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms, hallways and other interior spaces. They are an affordable decorating option that can quickly enhance the look of a space.

(4) Installation method

Installing MDF batten wall panels usually involves fastening the strips directly to the wall. Installation can be recessed or covered with existing walls, depending on design and personal preference.

4. Shaker wall panel

Shaker style wall panel is a wall panel decoration inspired by Shaker design concept, which is simple, practical and clear. The Shaker design style originated in the United States in the 18th century and was created by the cabinet makers and craftsmen of the Shaker community.

Shaker style is one of the most popular styles, where strips are used to form a rectangular shape and then spaced evenly apart. In our opinion, Shaker wall panel has a more palatial aesthetic, a style found on most country estates, Chelsea homes and high-end establishments.

Here are some key features about Shaker wall panels:

(1) Smooth panel

Shaker wall panels are typically constructed of smooth, uncarved panels. This emphasizes a simple, clean look, consistent with the Shaker design philosophy.

(2) Straight lines and simple design

Shaker design emphasizes straight lines and simplicity, and wall panels usually have clear straight lines without excessive complex decoration. Shaker wall panels add a sense of tranquility and comfort to the space through a minimalist design without appearing monotonous.

(3) Wide applicability

Shaker style wall panels are suitable for a variety of interior environments, including living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, etc., bringing a classic and elegant atmosphere to the space.

(4) Square design

Shaker wall panels often adopt a box-like design, dividing the wall into rectangular or square areas to form an orderly and even layout.

5. Raised panel

“Raised panels” generally refer to wall decorative panels with a raised design. These panels can visually add depth through raised patterns or designs on their surfaces and bring a unique decorative effect to a space.

One of the most popular ways to add wood paneling to your home is to add raised paneling, also known as Shaker wall paneling. This is essentially a simple square wall panel that can create multiple frame-like designs on the wall.

Raised panels are the perfect way to add depth and texture to any wall and can be created by simply adhering thin strips of MDF, timber or dado/picture rail to the wall in a uniform pattern.

(1) Materials

Raised panels can be made from a variety of materials, including solid wood, MDF (medium density fiberboard), PVC (polyvinyl chloride), metal, and more. The choice of materials often depends on the budget, style and purpose of the renovation.

(2) Design

Raised panel designs can include a variety of raised patterns, textures or decorative elements. This design can create a unique decorative effect and make the wall more three-dimensional.、

(3) Purpose

Raised panels are widely used in interior decoration of homes, commercial and office spaces. They can be used in living rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms and other areas to add a unique decorative effect to the wall.

(4) Installation

Installing raised panels is relatively simple and can usually be secured to the wall using screws, adhesive or other mounting methods. Some raised panels may be designed to snap together to create a complete wall effect.

*Tips

If you are installing raised wall panel in your home yourself, be sure to use a level and tape measure to mark where you want the framing to be installed before installation for a professional and level finish. Paint the paneling and entire wall the same color to hide any wood tones and create a smooth finish.

6. Pallet wood

Due to environmental concerns, many people are now looking to improve the interior style of their homes with sustainability in mind. A great way to achieve this is to use recycled pallet wood as a wall panel solution. Reclaimed wood from shipping pallets has a rustic style, creating a unique texture of warm colors.

However, due to the nature of the recycled material, it is not recommended for safety reasons to install this type of wood paneling scraps etc. in children’s rooms or homes with babies.

*Remember to check the inside of the pallet board for nails before using it, and sand and seal the board to prevent rough texture or any chipping!

(1) Materials

Pallet wood wall panel is typically made from solid wood or composite wood materials. Solid wood wall panel is more expensive but has natural grain and texture, while composite wood materials may be more economical.

(2) Design and texture

These wall panels come in a variety of designs and textures, allowing you to choose according to personal taste and decorating style. Some pallet wood wall panel has a three-dimensional look, and some may feature intricate patterns or carvings.

(3) Purpose

Pallet wood wall panels are often used to decorate indoor spaces such as living rooms, bedrooms, and study rooms. Not only do they provide visual appeal, they also add warmth and coziness to the room.

(4) Installation

Installing pallet wood wall panel usually requires some specialized skills. Wall panels can be glued directly to the wall or installed by fixing them to a wooden frame. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s installation guidelines.

7. 3D wall panel

3D wall panels are wall decoration materials with three-dimensional and textured effects. They can bring unique beauty to indoor spaces. 3D wall panels can be made from a number of different materials, the most common of which are plastic, plaster, aluminum and wood/MDF.

This type of wall panel comes in many different styles and shapes and can be adhered to the wall using a strong wall-grabbing adhesive. 3D paneling is often used to create unique geometric paneling styles, wavy shapes while adding volume and texture to walls, or even completely abstract features around something like a wall-mounted television.

(1) Materials

3D wall panels are usually made of various materials, including MDF (medium density fiberboard), PVC (polyvinyl chloride), ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer), etc. Different materials have different properties, for example MDF is stronger while PVC is more waterproof.

(2) Design and texture

The design of 3D wall panels is usually three-dimensional and layered, and can present a variety of interesting patterns and shapes. These designs can simulate stone, wood grain, geometric patterns, etc., adding an artistic atmosphere to the wall.

(3) Purpose

3D wall panels are widely used in home decoration, commercial spaces, restaurants, hotels and other places. They can bring a unique decorative effect to a space and enhance the overall visual appeal.

(4) Installation

Installing 3D wall panels is relatively simple and can be carried out by directly pasting, fixing or hanging. Some products are designed to be spliced for easy installation and removal. Before installation, please carefully read the installation instructions provided by the manufacturer.

8. Tongue and groove paneling

One of the most popular wall panel ideas for interior and exterior walls is tongue and groove paneling. It can be installed both horizontally and vertically and is relatively cost-effective and easy to install thanks to its snap-in mounting.

Today, this type of traditional paneling, usually made from mildew-resistant MDF, is commonly found in bathrooms and is usually installed around 1/3 of the wall to prevent moisture build-up and water splashing.

The simple tongue and groove installation technique means these products can be installed by any DIYer looking to improve the style of their interiors and add character to any room. They can be painted in almost any color to suit your home and its other design elements.

(1) Materials

Tongue and groove wall panel is typically made from solid wood, so it has the grain and feel of natural wood. Different wood species and colors can provide different decorative effects. Some tongue and groove wall panel may also be engineered board or other wood materials.

(2) Structure

The construction of tongue and groove wall panels consists of two basic parts, the tongue and groove. The tenon is a raised part and the groove is a concave part. This structure allows the wall panels to be connected through tongue-and-groove nesting to form a neat and orderly wall surface.

(3) Purpose

Tongue and groove wall panels are often used to decorate interior spaces such as living rooms, dining rooms, and bedrooms. They can be used to decorate the entire wall or as a partial wall embellishment.

(4) Installation

Installing tongue-and-groove wall panel can require some expertise, as they usually need to nest together correctly to ensure a neat wall finish. Wall panels can be installed by pasting, fixing or hanging.

9. Victorian Era

Victorian wall paneling refers to a style of interior wall decoration that was popular during the Victorian era (1837 to 1901) in England in the 19th century. The attention to detail and intricate decoration of wall panel designs from this period reflect the prosperity and passion for art in society at the time.

Blend traditional interior style with modern living by installing decorative Victorian wall panels. Decorative paneling is common in historic buildings and was once used as a clever way to protect walls from marks left by dining room chairs and furniture and to enhance the appearance of a space.

(1) Materials

Victorian wall panel was usually made of solid wood, such as oak, walnut, etc. These woods give the wall panel its natural grain and texture.

(2) Design

The design of Victorian wall panels focused on symmetry and contrast, often including intricate carvings, niches, tongue-and-groove, patterning and other elements. Wall panels may exhibit abstract geometric patterns, botanical patterns, or traditional classical decoration. Victorian wall panels often featured dark tones, such as crimson, dark green, dark blue, etc., to create a palatial atmosphere.

(3) Height

Victorian wall panels often extended from the floor to the top of the wall to create an overall wall decoration. The height of the wall panels can vary depending on individual rooms or personal taste, but is usually relatively tall.

(4) Application scope

Victorian wall panels were mainly used in important places such as living rooms, dining rooms, and studies of wealthy families. These wall panels were designed to showcase the family’s social status and appreciation of art.

*Important tips

This can be accomplished at home with a DIY project using wainscot railing and select wood trim. If you’re doing it yourself, be sure to use a tape measure and level for professional and accurate application.

II. Creative ideas for wall panels

1. Create a peaceful dining space

A contrasting space, soft pink wall panels on the walls instantly add warmth to this minimalist dining space. Use neutral tones to create a cozy contrast with smooth floors and cool gray walls.

Artful paneling, a stylish Scandinavian dining table and black frame legs bring a chic element to the room, while the blush hue pairs perfectly with the natural material of the rattan dining chairs, pendant lights and the organic finishes of the shaken ceramics.

2. Combination of old and new

Add timeless style and give your wall panel a vintage look. An entire wall of white sets the tone for this bathroom, but half-painted chalky blue paneling gives it a unique edge. Juxtapose shabby chic features with black modern accessories. A gold baroque mirror adds a touch of vintage charm.

3. Keep it simple with Shaker

This classic, minimalist design is perfect for small rooms and can subtly enhance any space. It’s perfect for making a white room look less bland without taking the spotlight from any statement furniture.

These 4-inch MDF strips were butted into rectangular shapes and secured to the wall before painting. You can also build a display stand or bookshelf.

4. Add grandeur with a Jacobean grid

This large grid adds impact when used across the entire height of a wall. It’s a historical style, but simple enough to suit modern spaces. This style of wall panel decoration usually has a strong sense of history and retro charm.

In terms of wall panel decoration, the Jacobean style often uses thick wooden decoration, usually with complex wood carving patterns and reliefs, giving people a calm and gorgeous feeling. Adding beads to the edges of the paneling can create an elegant feel.

5. Panels on structural features

By building a frame and covering the unused chimney breast with two styles of paneling. Dividing the panels at dado height will provide a small ledge for display.

The division of wall panels into ledges on the dado is one of the typical designs of the Jacobin style. This design can be achieved with vertical and horizontal wooden decorative elements. Wall shelves are typically decorative wooden frames on a wall that divide the wall into different areas and provide a decorative layering and detailing.

6. Mount the panel to the mirror rail for added height

Use wall panels on a feature wall to create a wall shelf for displaying bedroom knick-knacks. Raising the height to the existing mirror rail helps seamlessly transition the design into the trim, with or without a natural break. Use color to enhance the look. In this green bedroom idea, using a vibrant hue helps highlight the wall panels.

After the wall panel is installed, trim and decorate it. You can add decorative wooden moldings, decorative paintings, or other elements to add to the overall décor. This design not only increases the visual height of the room, but also adds a decorative element to the space.

7. Highly protect walls with wainscoting

Half wainscoting can cover the lower areas of walls that are often easily scratched or damaged. Especially in homes, such devices can reduce damage caused by furniture, chair legs or other items scratching against walls.

This style is practical in hallways, where walls may be bumped, and in dining rooms, where push-back chairs can bump against walls. Plus, since it only covers the lower third of the wall, it won’t dominate.

Paint walls, shutters, paneling and door lintels the same color to create the perfect backdrop. Consider an eye-catching dining room color scheme to add vibrancy and extra personality.

8. Rebuilding the cabin cladding

Replace the headboard with a minimalist, Scandinavian-style painted washed pine board, anchored vertically behind the bed. They look great paired with a modern platform bed and linen bedding. Sand any rough knots in the wood and protect them with matte varnish. Here, raw pine tongue and groove panels are nailed to batons on the wall. Wall panel cladding that decorates your bedside backdrop can add visual appeal and character to a room.

9. Add a nail rail

When vertical wall panels are being reinforced, a horizontal piece of wood provides the perfect opportunity to incorporate nail rails. This is a great way to create some extra storage space for hanging coats or other odds and ends.

Adding nail rails to wall panels can provide a display space where you can hang paintings, photos, decorations, and even books or small items. Choose a simple, clear-line nail rail design and combine it with modern-style wall panels to create a simple and refreshing atmosphere.

10. Use a headboard to pretend to be wall paneling

Using a headboard as a way to simulate wall paneling is such a creative idea! This creates the effect of wall panels without requiring any real changes or decoration to the wall.

If you’re not going to install wood paneling in your room, you can always dress it up with a headboard. Choose a suitable headboard that can be wood, textured, or have a special finish. The headboard can be designed to match the desired wall paneling style.

Design according to the effect you want for your wall panels. You can add decorative wood moldings, carvings, or embossing to the headboard to add to the wall panel effect. If desired, you can paint the headboard or use special wallpaper to achieve a wall panel look. What’s even more convenient, however, is that you can easily install accessories on it without permanently damaging your wall.

III. Conclusion

As time goes by, home decoration trends continue to change, and 2024 will also bring new popular ideas. As an important element in decoration, wall panels will continue to play a key role. From medium density fiberboard (MDF) to wood plastic composite (WPC), and from solid wood wall panel to VJ wall panel, a variety of wall panel types will play a role in home renovations in 2024.

In today’s pursuit of fashion and individuality, the application of creativity has become an important highlight of decoration. Whether it is bold color matching, unique pattern design, or creative layout and material combination, it can add unique charm to the indoor space. Therefore, choosing the type of wall panel that suits you and using creativity to maximize it will become one of the main trends in home decoration in 2024.

In this article, we explore the various wall panel types and creative ways they can be applied, hoping to provide you with inspiration and guidance for your renovation projects in 2024. If you have any questions about wall panel types and ideas for wall panel design ideas, feel free to contact us!