Panelling has quickly become a pretty and practical way of taking your walls out of the ordinary. But with the myriad of options available, picking the best solution for your space may seem a little daunting. So, we’ve asked the experts what’s popular right now and which styles will stand the test of time…
One of the reasons panelling is such a hit in bathrooms is its practicality, as Louise Ashdown, head of design at West One Bathrooms, tells KBB journo Rosie Smith: “Panelling and waterproof wallpaper are increasingly favoured in bathrooms for their low maintenance, ease of installation, and easy cleaning while also offering stunning textures and colours.”
If you struggle to keep your tile grout clean, bathroom panelling is ideal for a hygienic space with minimal upkeep. Plus, panels can be installed over existing tiles, thus saving you time, says Zoe Jones, senior content producer at Roper Rhodes.
But when it comes to choosing the panelling for your bathroom, what are the latest trends and which designs are likely to stay looking good year after year?
Fluting
Fluted designs are everywhere in interiors right now, and experts think it’s a look that’s set to stick around, too. Sleek and slim, you can opt for a wood design to bring a touch of the outdoors in or choose a colourful solution to add visual interest and texture. “Homeowners often look for more long-term trends when it comes to redesigning their bathrooms, and this surge in interest indicates fluted bathroom designs are going to be around for some time,” says Zoe.
Nature-inspired wall panelling
If it’s an evergreen, spa-like look you’re after, organic finishes are a top choice. “Panels that replicate natural materials such as wood or cool stone are trending,” explains Lidia Kane, creative manager at Multipanel. “These materials are a great way to make a smaller space such as a bathroom appear larger and feel more luxurious. Investing in panels helps you create the look for less, while also giving the benefit of easy-to-maintain surfaces.”
Timeless solutions
Traditional wallcoverings are another incredibly popular style at the moment, with the guarantee that they will look just as good in the future. “Tongue and groove panelling is a classic style that gives a bathroom a timeless feel, working perfectly as a half-height backdrop to a freestanding bath,” says Olivia Crosher, designer and visual stylist at Naturewall.
Depending on your style, you can choose from a range of timeless bathroom wall panelling ideas – board-and-batten, Victorian, Georgian, and Shaker. If you need more inspiration, click here.
Characterful bathroom wall panelling
Finally, if you love having fun with your bathroom design, acrylic panelling offers a stunning range of boldly patterned and mural-esque options — as well as more pared-back styles. “Acrylic bathroom panelling is gaining popularity due to its blend of style, practicality, and affordability,” says Bryony Bennett, bathrooms expert at B&Q. “Its versatility allows for a wide range of colours, patterns, and finishes, making it suitable for various bathroom designs, from sleek and modern to warm and traditional.”
Whatever your style, bathroom panelling can make the perfect backdrop to your new space — now, and for years to come.
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