Painted Wall Paneling: The 7 Best Styles For Modern Interiors

Painted wall paneling has been popping up everywhere in recent years, from trendy cafés to modern homes, adding personality and depth to plain walls. But as with any bold trend, it’s all about striking the right balance to keep it tasteful and timeless.

With a rich history in interior design, paneling styles have evolved from classic Georgian and Victorian patterns to today’s fluted panelling and board-and-batten favorites. Originally used to insulate and protect walls, wall panelling has long provided functional benefits while adding character and architectural interest.

Whether you’re aiming for a cozy, traditional feel or a sleek, minimalist look, modern painted wall paneling offers endless options to elevate any room, protect (or cover) your old walls, and express your style in an understated way.

In this article, we’ll explore seven top paneling styles, highlighting how each can transform your space both aesthetically and functionally.

Understanding Paintable Wall Paneling

Paintable paneling is a type of decorative wall covering that’s ideal for adding texture and style to interior spaces such as rooms, hallways, lobbies, kitchens, and bathrooms. They come in different materials with wood, MDF, and PVC being the most common. 

What sets paintable wall panelling apart from other styles is that it can be easily painted to match the other colors in your home. This is perfect when you have a color scheme you're trying to follow, or if you're installing custom elements (like cabinets or closets) that are a specific color.

Assessing Your Needs

Assess your needs before starting a painted wall paneling project. The first thing to do is to determine the “why” of your project. Why add paintable paneling to your space? 

Will it be used for purely decorative purposes? Or will it serve something more functional, like adding an extra layer of protection for walls in high-traffic areas? Are you trying to cover wall imperfections, or improve your acoustics?

Being clear about your reasons for adding a feature like this to your space will make it easier to choose the right style and material for your paneling.

Finally, consider the overall aesthetic vibe you want to achieve. We’ll discuss below which paneling styles suit which design styles, including modern, transitional, rustic, mid-century and more.

No matter your specific needs, everyone’s goal is usually to improve the overall feel of a space, both visually and functionally. 

Materials of Paintable Wall Panels

When choosing paintable paneling, understanding the different materials available is crucial. Each material has its own characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages, making it important to select the right one for your specific needs.

MDF is an affordable option and is typically easier to paint than wood thanks to its smooth and even surface. Paintable MDF panels also usually come pre-primed, so all you have to do is paint them your color of choice. 

Meanwhile, PVC is ideal if you’re going to install the wall panels in kitchens, bathrooms, or in areas which easily get wet, as PVC is extremely moisture resistant.

Wood Paneling

Wood paneling offers a natural look and refined texture, making it a timeless choice for any interior space. It provides a natural wood appearance and is relatively moisture-resistant depending on the wood species used.

The drawback is that solid wood panels are typically more expensive, and if you're planning to paint over them (we are discussing painted wall panelling, after all) there's not much sense paying a premium for wood that will be covered anyway.

That being said, some more affordable wood species, like pine or birch, do take paint well and do come in patterned options.

MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard) Wall Panels

MDF (medium-density fiberboard) paneling are renowned for their affordability, durability, and smooth surface, making them easily paintable.

This is what you need if you are budget-conscious and you want to install them by yourself because they are easy to cut and install. They are also ideal for those who want to have a sleek and modern finish.

The downside to MDF, though, is that they are not very moisture-resistant. Good thing there is a way around this, which is by painting them with water-resistant paint.

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) 3D Panels

PVC is the best choice if you want a moisture-resistant material for your painted wall paneling, making it ideal in areas prone to moisture like bathrooms and kitchens.

PVC wall panels are lightweight and come in different designs such as 3D wall panels and beadboard panels. However, PVC might lack the authentic look because it is made from plastic material that can feel cheap and can sometimes easily dent.

Plan out the location where you want to have it installed and the overall look you want to get. This way, you won’t have to worry about anything moving forward.

The 7 Essential Painted Wall Paneling Styles: What to Consider

Understanding the design and style considerations for your painted wall paneling is a crucial part of the selection process because this lets you choose the right one that suits your needs and preferences.

1. Ribbed and Fluted Painted MDF Panels

Fluted and ribbed panels are the go-to choice if you want something that has a sophisticated and versatile look that can complement both classic and modern interiors.

This design has vertical grooves which add depth and texture without overwhelming the space. If you typically opt for lighter furniture, adding a black accent wall can really help to create some contrast.

This look was created with our Ribbed Paintable Wall Panels, which come primed and ready to paint and are typically installed with finishing nails or adhesive.

Fluted panels are ideal for accent walls in bedrooms and living rooms because of their simple design and installation - they provide a simple backdrop for the rest of your furniture and decor. 

2. Paintable Slatted Wall Panels

Slatted panels work well with Nordic design themes because of their clean and linear style which evokes a sense of structure and calm. This makes them a great choice for those wanting a minimalist interior. 

The project below from Joy Johnston Design highlights how white textured wall panelling can create a subtle backdrop with just a splash of vintage feel. Given her clients were looking for "minimalist Scandinavian with eclectic vintage vibes", we think she nailed it.

Slatted panels are also great for rooms that have low ceilings because their vertical uniformity creates a height illusion that makes small spaces feel bigger.

You can use panels like this  in your bedroom, living room, kitchen, or even your home office. Slatted panels are usually made from solid wood or MDF, which makes for good durability and easy installation.

3. Painted Shiplap or Vertical Joint (VJ) Wall Panels

Then there’s the shiplap paneling, which is great for interiors with a coastal or modern farmhouse style. Shiplap can be installed horizontally or vertically, and it usually makes rooms look wider and more spacious, thanks to its simple linear look and wider plank design.

Shiplap can also be added to ceilings and walls and can be painted neutral colors to blend seamlessly with the rest of the space, or a darker, more bold color if you’re looking to create a TV accent wall, like in the photo above.

In days gone by, shiplap was made from solid wood. But now, more manufacturers are creating shiplap wall panels made from MDF because it is more affordable and easy to work with.

4. Painted Board and Batten Wall Paneling

If you want something that brings out a more timeless and classic look, then board and batten might be for you.

This wall paneling style features narrow battens coupled with wide boards that create a rhythmic pattern ideal for dining rooms, hallways, foyers, and even exterior walls.

Board and batten has been used in home and barn construction for centuries. Nowadays, board and batten interior walls are usually made from wood or MDF and painted in neutral colors.

That being said, board and batten isn’t all about aesthetics - it can also provide added protection and durability for walls, making it a good choice for high-traffic areas.

5. Paintable Wall Moulding

Creating a more elegant and sophisticated look in your home is much easier with wall mouldings.

They come in different styles, from simple squares and rectangles, to complex patterns specifically designed to enhance any interior’s features.

They are generally made from solid wood or polyurethane and work best if painted with similar wall color to have a synchronous feel.

They’re ideal if you want a refined and upscale look for your space because they can serve as backdrops for mirrors, artwork, or other decorative elements.

6. Paintable Geometric Wall Paneling

Sleek and modern interiors would love the addition of a geometric paneling design to its space thanks to its striking and head-turning patterns.

They are ideal for feature walls as they create a focal point with their added depth, texture, and bold patterns.

Geometric panels are usually made from vinyl, MDF, or metal. They can also be painted in colors with varying depths or even with metallic finishes to have a more dramatic effect. Some geometric paneling is actually made from acoustic materials for office spaces, reducing echo while also creating some visual interest on walls and ceilings.

If you want a space that evokes creativity and a strong personality, geometric paneling is a great option.

7. Beadboard Wall Paneling

Making the most out of transitional spaces like hallways, foyers, and staircases, is a bit of a challenge especially that they usually have tight spaces which you’d rather leave blank.

But there’s a way to do this — beadboard.

Beadboard paneling is a versatile choice for turning usually neglected areas into functional and aesthetic spaces, as their vertical planks provide added depth and sophistication.

It’s typically made from plywood. Beadboard panels are also very easy to install and maintain because of their simple structure design.

Painting Tips and Techniques

Preparing the Paneling Surface

The first step is to thoroughly clean the surface of the panel to remove any dust, grease, or dirt.

However, wall moldings and other modern paneling styles don't need any sanding if their surface is already primed for painting.

You can also apply primer after cleaning and sanding if you have an unfinished solid wood surface. You don’t have to do this for PVC and MDF panels, though.

Choosing the Right Paint for Panelling

Choosing the right paint is essential for superior aesthetics and durability. We recommend satin or semi-gloss finishes for high-traffic areas like hallways and kitchens.

They are easier to clean and more moisture-resistant. Meanwhile, eggshell and matte finishes are highly recommended for living rooms and bedrooms as they give off a more sophisticated look without the shine.

Always use high-quality paint to ensure a smooth finish that will last for decades. Although more expensive, it will save you money in the long run by avoiding frequent repaints.

Painting Techniques

Each painted wall paneling style requires its own painting method. If you’re painting geometric panels or wall moldings, we recommend you use a brush to achieve more detailed styles and reach the more intricate pattern designs.

On the other hand, you can use a roller if you’ll be painting flat and large surfaces like board and batten panels.

Paint sprayers are ideal if you want a flawless finish common for ribbed and fluted panels. Also, remember that it’s better to apply multiple thin coats instead of a single thick coat as this creates a smoother and more durable finish.

After painting, double check if there are any missed areas or uneven spots. Do the needed finishing touches and touch ups if you find any.

Budget Considerations

Set a realistic budget for your painted wall paneling project by knowing the material, size, and design. You can use our box calculator to instantly calculate your needs and get the estimated cost for the panels.

Choose high-quality materials within your budget matched with simpler design to get that much-needed balance between affordability and quality.

Where to Buy Paintable Wall Paneling

Always choose a reputable painted wall paneling manufacturer that has been in the industry for years and has a portfolio of successful projects and satisfied clients.

Pictured above: Wide Fluted Wall Panels in a recent project by our clients at Comfortable Dwelling. Click image for more info.

You can buy online for convenience and a wider selection, or visit local home improvement stores for a hands-on evaluation of the product.

You can also go to the local home improvement store if you want to have a hands-on evaluation of the product.

Conclusion

Wall paneling has evolved a lot over the years, but one fact remains: It’s a great way to cover wall imperfections, add visual interest, and tie a room together aesthetically.

Whether your space has a classic rustic aesthetic or a more modern, Scandinavian one, there’s probably a wall paneling style that will work for you. 

Just ensure to prep the space properly and choose the right paint for the room, and your painted wall paneling project will turn out perfectly!