Panelling is the decorative use of boards or mouldings on walls — and sometimes ceilings — to add texture, structure and charm. While it has historic roots, modern panelling is sleek, subtle and surprisingly versatile.
Whether you’re into Scandinavian minimalism, Japandi calm or modern farmhouse vibes, panelling can help you add depth to your clean space without losing the fresh aesthetic you love. Here’s how to make it work in your home.
Use Grid or Box Moulding for Structured Sophistication
Box moulding — also called grid panelling — adds architectural interest and a sense of refinement. It’s created by forming square or rectangular patterns across the wall, offering a balanced and elegant look. This style works beautifully in dining rooms, home offices or any space that feels too plain.
We are planning to do this in our lounge around the TV, large artwork and wall lights.
Stick with large, evenly spaced panels to maintain a clean feel. Use matte-finish paint in a neutral tone to enhance the shadows and texture. By keeping the colour consistent with the rest of the room, you get just enough visual impact without overwhelming the space.
Bring in Natural Wood to Warm Things Up
If your space feels a little cold or stark, natural wood panelling is a beautiful way to introduce texture, warmth and character. Use light woods like oak, ash or birch to maintain your clean aesthetic.
Try installing wood panelling on just one feature wall — behind the bed, sofa or dining table — to make it feel like a focal point. Keep the grain visible but the finish matte to maintain a soft, modern feel.
Go Vertical With Slatted Panelling
If you want to instantly add height and interest to a room, try vertical slat panelling. It’s a sleek, linear design with thin boards placed evenly from floor to ceiling. This style naturally draws the eye upward and makes your space feel taller and more open, perfect for small rooms or low ceilings.
We did this in our garage conversion which I used as my creative studio:
To keep things modern and minimalist, paint the slats the same colour as the wall or just a shade darker. This creates a subtle contrast that adds depth without being too bold. It’s an excellent choice for entryways, behind your bed or even on a single accent wall in your living room.
Create a Seamless Look With Monochrome Paint
One of the easiest ways to add texture without creating visual clutter is to paint your panelling the exact same colour as your walls, trim and even ceiling. This tone-on-tone technique keeps things cohesive while still giving your walls depth and dimension.
I love how Studio McGee have executed this look here:
Stick with soft, matte finishes to help the panelling’s shadows stand out gently. Light hues can help brighten compact rooms, while deeper tones ground larger or high-traffic spaces. This approach is especially effective in smaller rooms or minimalist spaces where every design element needs to feel intentional.
Try Half-Wall Panelling for Subtle Charm
Wainscoting or board-and-batten panelling that runs halfway up the wall is a great way to add interest while keeping things light. It works exceptionally well in bathrooms, kitchens or nurseries — anywhere you want a little detail without going overboard.
To keep it modern, skip the traditional chair rail and use clean, vertical lines. Painting the panelling the same colour as the upper wall creates a seamless, unified look. This trick lets you enjoy the charm of panelling without breaking up your space too much.
Use Panelling to Frame Features
Panelling isn’t just for blank walls. You can use it to highlight existing features like fireplaces, built-in shelves or large windows. This adds visual interest and gives your space a custom-designed feel.
Stick to clean lines and symmetrical layouts to match your minimalist style. It’s a subtle but smart way to make certain areas of your home stand out without using bold colours or patterns. And if you’re working with a darker space, especially in the winter, consider incorporating a mirror into your panelled wall. Mirrors reflect natural light and can visually expand the room, adding both brightness and style to your panelling design.
Don’t Overlook the Ceiling
Ceilings are often the most forgotten surface in a room, but adding panelling overhead can completely transform the vibe. Try tongue-and-groove panels or slim wood beams to draw the eye upward and make the room feel finished and thoughtfully designed.
Keep the ceiling colour light and consistent with the walls for an open, airy effect. It’s a small detail that adds major character without adding clutter.
Elevate Your Clean Interior — Effortlessly
Panelling is the perfect way to breathe life into a clean, modern space. It gives your walls depth, your rooms more warmth and your entire home a sense of intention — all while keeping your minimalist roots intact. So, if you want to elevate your interior without adding clutter, consider reaching for panelling. It’s simple, timeless and anything but boring.
