The Wonders of Wainscoting
Stained or Painted, Paneled Walls Give a Room Interest and Charm
Want an easy way to introduce an architectural element into a nondescript space? Try wainscoting. Originally used to protect plaster walls from nicks, scuffs and other mishaps, wainscoting has evolved into a way of injecting style and interest into interior spaces.
Whether stained or painted, installed high or low, there is no doubt that wainscoting is a smart investment that provides lasting enjoyment to current homeowners as well as future inhabitants. Let's take a look.
Whether stained or painted, installed high or low, there is no doubt that wainscoting is a smart investment that provides lasting enjoyment to current homeowners as well as future inhabitants. Let's take a look.
We often see paneling painted white, but I love how the designer deviated from the norm and borrowed a warm beige hue from the area rug. The designer's selection maintains the entryway's cozy atmosphere and complements tones in the furniture and the wood flooring.
The combination of stained wood paneling, crown molding and a coordinating ceiling medallion gives this newer home a historic charm. The leather Eames lounge chair and geometric-patterned rug provide a great juxtaposition of mid-century and traditional decor.
In lieu of framed artwork, a continuous wall of wainscoting provides visual interest while maintaining a clean minimalist aesthetic.
Want to add bit of flair to your traditional wainscoting installation? Wallpaper the upper half of the wall in a bold, colorful print. Not only will your space have the wow factor you crave, you also save money on labor and materials by only covering a portion of the wall.
Floor-to-ceiling wainscoting gives instant clues to the style of this lakeside retreat. Furniture and accents are a natural extension of the room's architectural and follows through with its cottage theme.
This has to be one of my favorite wainscoting applications. In this two story foyer, the paneling has been installed up to standard ceiling height, visually lowering the ceiling and making the space feel both welcoming and intimate.
Here is another illustration of the same technique. This cathedral-height foyer uses paneling combined with a checkered floor to ground the space while a formidable chandelier takes full advantage of the soaring ceilings.
You can add wainscoting to just about any surface, including doorways. To prevent the moldings from feeling heavy, keep the paint color just a shade or two lighter from the existing wall color.
More:
Beautiful Details: Wainscoting and Paneled Walls
Browse photos of wainscoting in design
More:
Beautiful Details: Wainscoting and Paneled Walls
Browse photos of wainscoting in design