Wood panelling ideas: from traditional to contemporary we have it covered

Wooden panelling has been used in homes for centuries. Initially used to help insulate homes and protect the occupants from draughts and damp, it soon evolved into more decorative options and used as a sign of wealth and status, from medieval halls to Regency splendour, Georgian classicism or Victorian gothic. But don't be fooled into thinking wooden panelling is just for period properties - it can also make a statement in contemporary homes.

And adding some panelling doesn't have to be expensive either and can be something easily done a t home by the keen DIYer. Here's how to make and install wooden panelling for a period look.

Best wooden panelling ideas

Tongue and groove panelling

Tongue and groove panelling is a traditional panelling style that is synonymous with the idyllic cottage look, however it can also be used with great effect in more contemporary and city homes. It is particularly effective in hallways, kitchens and bathrooms – where it can make a great alternative to tiled walls – as well as those seeking a nautical or coastal look. Whether you go bold with colour or keep it neutral and simple, do the whole wall or just half, wooden panelling can really transform a room.

This grey and white colour scheme with pair-backed washed floorboards has timeless appeal.

This green tongue and groove panelling really adds period charm and depth to a narrow hallway, while complementing the gorgeous wallpaper above it.

Classic panelling

Georgian architecture was known for classic, symmetrical lines inspired by antiquity, often favouring tall and narrow panelling designed to resemble ancient columns.

The panelling adds character and depth to a room and while a dark colour (above) can add cosiness, a lighter colour can add elegance and light

If you don't want to go to the expense or trouble of installing the panelling but still want the look, you can use wallpaper.

This wood panel wallpaper in soft grey is available from ilovewallpaper.co.uk, (priced £22)

Contemporary wooden panelling

This slatted wooden panelling not only creates a very cool feature wall but also a feature ceiling that helps divide the dining area away from the complementary kitchen.

Behind a bed, panelling can act as a headboard, even when it spans the entire room.

By choosing not to extend the panelling to the top of the wall in the bedroom, you can create an effect less of a wall treatment and more of a piece of oversized furniture. While this design is large and dominating, it still brings a minimalist quality to the room, as it doesn’t rely on vast amounts of further styling, allowing just the wood grain finish to bring character to the space.