Is Paneling a Phase… Should you add it to your home?

Panelling has taken the UK home-design scene by storm in recent years. What was once associated with dated 1970s interiors and boardrooms has been reinvented into a modern, stylish way to elevate rooms with texture, depth and charm. But with any trend, the big question remains: is panelling simply a passing phase… or is it here to stay?

In this blog, we explore the pros and cons of wall panelling, the costs involved, why it’s become such a craze in the UK, and whether it’s a smart investment for your home — now and in the long-term.

What Is Wall Panelling?

Wall panelling refers to decorative boards attached to the lower or full height of walls. Popular styles include:

  • Shaker panelling (rectangular frames)

  • Beadboard / tongue-and-groove

  • Picture framed panelling

  • Geometric feature walls

  • Wainscoting

Panelling can be painted to match your decor or contrast boldly, creating a focal point in living rooms, hallways, dining spaces — even bedrooms and bathrooms.

Why Panelling Has Become So Popular in the UK

Panelling’s resurgence didn’t happen by accident. A few key factors have driven its comeback:

📌 Social Media Inspiration

Platforms like Instagram and Pinterest have given homeowners endless design inspo. Panelling photographs beautifully — structured lines, shadows, and contrast all translate well on camera.

📌 Affordable Alternative to Wallpaper & Plastering

Compared with wallpaper or full wall replastering, many types of panelling are relatively straightforward to install, especially with professionals. It adds architectural interest without breaking the bank.

📌 Flexibility of Style

Panelling isn’t “one look” anymore. Whether your taste is traditional, modern, minimalist, or bold and colourful, there’s a panelling style to match.

📌 Adds Perceived Value

Buyers and renters often see rooms with panelling as more finished and higher quality, which can boost appeal if you're selling or letting.

The Positives: Why Panelling Rocks

Let’s dive into what makes panelling such a hit.

🌟 1. Instant Style Upgrade

Panelling instantly enhances the character of a room — giving plain walls texture, depth, and a sense of sophistication.

Whether painted crisp white for a clean, classic look or a bold navy for drama, panelling adds instant wow factor.

🌟 2. Can Hide Imperfections

If your walls have minor dents, dings, or cracks, well-installed panelling can cleverly conceal these flaws — saving time and money on plaster repairs.

🌟 3. Versatile Design

You can adapt panelling to almost any interior theme:

  • Traditional cottages

  • Scandi minimalism

  • Industrial lofts

  • Contemporary glamour

It’s not just for period homes — panelling thrives in modern builds too.

🌟 4. Customisable to Your Space

Want a feature wall behind the sofa? Or panelling around the entire room? You can choose full height, half height (often called dado rail or wainscoting), or even geometric patterns for extra visual interest.

🌟 5. Perceived Value for Your Home

If you’re prepping your home for the market, professional panelling can contribute to that polished, designed-by-an-interior-expert feel that appeals to buyers.

The Downsides: Things to Consider

No design choice is perfect — and it’s wise to consider a few potential drawbacks.

⚠️ 1. Once It’s Up, You’ll Need to Re-decorate

This is one of the biggest cons — panelling is not a temporary look. Once fixed to your walls, decorating choices (paint colours, furniture arrangements) may have to align with it.

If your style evolves often or you like constantly changing your look, this may feel restrictive.

⚠️ 2. Cost Varies Significantly

While some DIY panelling options are affordable, bespoke or high-quality materials and professional installation can add up. We’ll break down typical costs below.

⚠️ 3. Installation Takes Time and Precision

Poorly installed panelling can look unfinished — uneven lines, gaps or mismatched joints can stand out. That’s why choosing experienced installers is important.

⚠️ 4. Not Ideal for Every Room

High-moisture areas (like bathrooms without proper sealing) may not be ideal for wood panelling unless properly treated.

So, How Much Does Panelling Cost?

Panelling costs vary based on material, style, installation complexity, and whether you choose DIY or professional fit-out.

Here’s a ballpark idea for the UK:

💷 Materials

  • Basic MDF or ready-made panels: £10–£25 per square metre

  • Mid-range timber or decorative panels: £25–£55 per square metre

  • Premium bespoke or speciality panels: £60+ per square metre

👷 Installation Labour

Professional fitting generally costs between £200–£400 per day, depending on experience and region. A typical living room wall may take 1–3 days to complete.

🎨 Painting & Finishing

Expect to budget extra for primer and paint — typically £80–£150 per room, depending on size and paint quality.

Example Total: For a medium-sized living room, professionally fitted and painted panelling might range from £500 to £1,500+.

Note: These are approximate figures — material choices and room complexity (corners, windows, radiators) affect the final price.

Is Panelling Just a Phase… Or a Mainstay?

While trends come and go, panelling has a few things going for it that suggest lasting appeal:

  • It’s rooted in classic architecture, not a fleeting fad.

  • Its versatility means it evolves with style preferences — from minimalist to maximalist.

  • It photographs and spaces beautifully, a big factor in today’s design culture.

That said, like any stylistic choice, how bold you go (colour, pattern) may age faster than classic installations like Shaker or traditional framed panelling.

Our take? Panelling isn’t likely to disappear overnight — but choose designs you love and that suit your home, not just what’s “trending” this season.

Final Thoughts: Is Panelling Worth It?

If you want to:

✅ Add character and depth to a room
✅ Elevate interiors with timeless architectural detail
✅ Increase your home’s perceived value
✅ Hide minor wall imperfections
✅ Make a design statement — panelling can be well worth it

Just be aware that it’s a semi-permanent choice, and investing in professional installation makes a big difference in the end result.