Panelling
Make your own classic square panellingHow to create cladding like this? It’s pretty simple, actually. Fit a deep, level skirting board, then measure up for long and short lengths of MDF, which your DIY store might just cut to size for you. Simply pin and glue them to the wall (assuming it’s in good condition). Top with a dado rail, then, once the glue has dried, fill any gaps and apply a coat of primer followed by a couple of coats of your chosen paint colour. Sorted.
Wallpaper your panelsDoes your room totally lack architectural details? No character at all? Then why not fit panelling and wallpaper the gaps? This trick works best if the panels are either above or below dado height only, and if they’re decently wide – although the smaller the room and the more traditional the look you’re going for, the narrower the wallpapered gaps can be.
Exaggerate ceiling heightWant your bedroom to feel bigger? Panelling can achieve this with two easy tricks: first, fit vertical panels to draw the eye upwards; next, stop the panelling about two thirds of the way up the wall. Painting the walls and panels in one colour will look smart and streamlined, but to further stretch the space, paint the wall above the panelling in a lighter shade.Browse more wall panelling ideas in the Houzz photo stream
Fit contemporary claddingPanelling does tend to create a vintage feel, so if you want a more modern look, it’s all about getting the scale right. Here, large panels made with simple, square-edged beading have created a streamlined style that’s super-easy to replicate. Match it with a muted, matt paint shade that reflects lots of light to enhance the space further.
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