The Power of Wall Panelling: A Classic Detail That Always Belongs

There’s a reason wall panelling never seems to go out of style. Even as trends shift and evolve, this architectural detail has a way of anchoring a space with elegance and intention. Whether it’s the understated sophistication of a painted wainscot or the bold impact of a full-height panelled wall, panelling is one of those rare design elements that always feels right—no matter the era, style, or function of the room.

At Liv Interiors, we’ve noticed a pattern: clients may want to update their wall panelling, refresh the colour, or reimagine its scale—but they never want to get rid of it entirely. And for good reason. It brings presence to even the plainest wall, especially in long hallways or expansive living areas where something more is needed to keep the eye engaged. It’s a detail that’s inherently classic, but it has so much range—whether you’re after something refined and timeless or light and contemporary.

Why Wall Panelling Prevails

One of the reasons we love panelling so much is because of its quiet power. It adds depth without demanding attention. It makes a room feel finished, even before the art or furniture is installed. It’s also surprisingly versatile—able to shift between traditional and modern expressions depending on the materials, proportions, and paint choices.

Vertical panelling, for example, is an excellent way to heighten a room. Especially in smaller or lower-ceilinged spaces, it draws the eye upward and creates a sense of openness and lift. We’ve also used panel moulding to break up large wall expanses—like in entryways or stairwells—adding structure and rhythm where artwork alone might fall flat. For bathrooms or powder rooms, we often suggest pairing panelling with wallpaper: a half-wall treatment in a moody blue or soft neutral can ground the space while allowing the pattern to shine above, without overwhelming the room.

Refreshing Existing Panelling

We often walk into homes where panelling already exists—sometimes beautiful, sometimes bulky—and the goal is to make it feel more aligned with the rest of the design. In those cases, we rarely tear it out. Instead, we look at how to give it a new life. Maybe the proportions need adjusting, or the moulding is a bit too ornate for the space. A coat of paint can go a long way in modernizing the look, especially in rich, matte tones that create warmth and depth. We’ve also added additional layers to existing panelling—like thinner trim or updated edges—to give it a sleeker, more current feel without losing the charm.

Starting Fresh When a Room Calls for More

On the other hand, there are moments when a room is just calling out for that extra layer of texture and structure—and that’s when we choose to introduce wall panelling from scratch. If a living room wall feels blank, or a hallway lacks definition, panel detailing can make all the difference. It gives the space a framework to build from—guiding everything from furniture placement to lighting.

Our approach is always space-specific. We consider ceiling height, natural light, and existing architectural features before recommending a style. Box moulding may suit a more formal living room, while tongue-and-groove works beautifully in coastal-inspired or Scandinavian-style homes. Sometimes, a minimalist flush panel in the same colour as the wall brings just enough interest without overwhelming the rest of the design (hello, colour drenching!). It’s all about balance.

Personal Takes on a Classic Detail

Panelling may be a classic design element, but we love reimagining it in ways that feel personal and fresh. That might mean playing with paint contrast or combining materials, such as mixing wood panelling with plaster or wallpaper. In some spaces, continuing panelling onto the ceiling can create a cocoon-like sense of enclosure—elegant, unexpected, and just the right twist to make it feel both classic and one-of-a-kind.

When a Detail Becomes Part of the Home

At the end of the day, panelling is more than just a decorative treatment—it’s both an architectural investment and a lasting fixture. A detail that endures because it was built to. While taste in furniture may shift and styles evolve, panelling remains. It grows with a home—and with the people living in it.

For Liv Interiors, that’s what great design does: it adds timeless layers that make a space feel lived in, loved, and entirely your own. Panelling brings both structure and soul. It frames a room, elevates the atmosphere, and becomes the backdrop to your story.

Ready to bring more depth and dimension into your space? Whether you're working with existing panelling or dreaming up something new, Liv Interiors can help you create a home that feels timeless, tailored, and truly yours.