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Bathroom wall panel ideas


10 creative ways to dress you walls |

(Image credit: Catchpole & Rye/Drummonds/BC Designs)

Bringing with it centuries of history, bathroom paneling ideas offer a straightforward way to instantly elevate your bathroom's design. Whether laid in tongue and groove, square panels or shiplap, bathroom paneling can work to exaggerate the size of your home's smallest room, as well as adding interest and warmth.

Bathroom paneling is the perfect partner for a whole host of bathroom ideas, from traditional and high-end, to rustic, vintage or even beach themed decor. Go full height and embrace period charm, or opt for the paneling at wainscotting height –up to the dado rail – and pair with patterned wallpaper for a more contemporary edge. 

‘Adding wood paneling to a bathroom is a great way of adding texture and color, which in turn can add a warmth to what otherwise can be quite a clinical and cold room,’ explains Barrie Cutchie, designer at BC Designs .

Bathroom paneling ideas

Historically, paneling ideas for walls were a functional addition to the home, a way to help insulate wattle-and-daub or brick walls against the chill. However, as with all functional additions to the home, it quickly became a decorative feature too, with carving and patterned layering coming to the fore. These earlier additions were often made of dark wood, typically oak, and impose the grandeur you would expect from a stately home. For the majority of us, this look does not suit our more humble properties, and if it does, it is unlikely to suit our bathrooms.

Modern bathroom wall paneling is usually less ornate than historic examples, typically made from MDF or other affordable woods. 'MDF is ideal for bathroom paneling as it does not expand and contract anything like as much as softwood does so none of the endless redecoration every time the heating is switched on in the fall,' advises Jon Madeley, founder of The English Paneling Company. 'It is crucial, however, that a high quality board is used and it must be moisture resistant.' 

While modern homeowners typically plump for bathroom wall paneling ideas for their aesthetic look, the bathroom paneling also still bring with it insulating properties . 'Bathroom paneling can be fixed to battens and the space between insulated (always incorporate a vapour barrier on the warm side). This may be particularly useful in an older house with solid walls as even 25mm of insulation can make a dramatic difference to the warmth of a room,' continues Jon.

1. Opt for classic tongue and grove for an elegant look

(Image credit: Bc Designs)

Tongue and groove paneling is the classic choice when considering bathroom paneling ideas. Installed as individual panels, they get their name from the fact that each plank features a the small tongue that fits into a corresponding groove on the next plank. Whether installed to full-height or to wainscotting height and paired with paint, wallpaper or tiles, bathroom paneling offers an affordable way to decorate your space while also adding warmth and character to your bathroom. Laid in vertical panels it elongates a room, emphasising its height, yet if laid horizontally it lengths the space, ideal for pairing with other small bathroom ideas or powder rooms ideas.

2. Create a geometric feature with square paneling

(Image credit: Future/Polly Eltes)

Square panels are another popular choice of bathroom paneling ideas, creating an elegant focal point. Unlike tongue and groove, they are best kept to one or two feature walls or used exclusively below the dado rail as, if used on all four walls can feel overwhelming and create a claustrophobic atmosphere in smaller rooms. Traditionally, square paneling was created as wooden panels that would be attached to the wall, however, the look can equally be achieve by laying strips of timber in a square pattern. 

'It is also important to consider your paneling color and style, and how you will contrast it. For example, if you are going with a darker or busier wallpaper or paint , contrast it with simple and clean white tongue and groove. Alternatively, if you are keeping the walls bare and white, you can have a bit more fun with intricate paneling, such as square paneling designs – you could even paint the trim a contrasting color,' says Jennifer Markowitz, founder at JNR Designs .

3. Pair with wallpaper for photo frame look

(Image credit: Future)

Combining bathroom paneling ideas with wallpaper is a great way to add sophistication to a bathroom – and there are so many different wallpaper ideas to choose from. Here, the gaps in the paneling have been infilled with wallpaper to create integrated works of art. 

For a more minimalist bathroom look while still embracing the elegance of paneling, mouldings are also a great option that can also be paired with wallpaper for the same framed effect.

4. Use white paneling for a serene space

(Image credit: Catchpole & Rye)

White bathroom ideas instantly create a space of serenity and paneling is a great way to achieve this look. Pairing rustic shiplap panels on walls and ceiling with sophisticated square paneling below the dado rail creates an elegant yet laid-back look that is perfect for relaxing. Opting for white bathroom paneling ideas also provide a great way to increase natural light in the bathroom too.

5. Use bathroom paneling ideas to maximize small spaces

(Image credit: Farrow & Ball)

Bathroom paneling ideas are perfect for small bathrooms as they can work to emphasise the room's proportions. To do this, try pairing different types of paneling on different walls. Use square paneling on the room's shortest walls to exaggerate their length, then opt for vertical tongue and groove paneling on the room's longer wall's to emphasize the room's height. 

The illusion continues with paint. Dark colors are usually a no-no for small spaces, however, when used correctly they can create a cozy atmosphere that's perfect for luxuriating.

Paint paneling a warm aubergine shade, such as Farrow & Ball 's Brinjal to create an intimate environment within a cottage space, then balance with a lighter shade above the picture rail which will brighten the room and draw the eye upwards, exaggerating the room's height. 

6. Divide a bold print with bathroom paneling

(Image credit: Drummonds)

Wainscoting is a favorite technique to pair with other bathroom paneling ideas. Installed below the dado rail, it provides texture and character that can be complemented with patterned tiles or wallpaper. Paneling is the perfect partner for decorative wallpapers enabling you to enjoy a bold print without it overwhelming the room. 

'Wall paneling is a hot trend at the moment and it’s easy to see why – it’s a modern, easy to care for stylish wall covering with a wide choice of different styles and periods,' says James Lentaigne, creative director at Drummonds . 'Paneling is a simple and relatively inexpensive way to create a statement look in a bathroom and can be re-painted at regular intervals to create a different feel. From a practical point of view, it also has the benefit of hiding a multitude of sins – like uneven walls and unsightly pipework. It's also much easier to install than bathroom tiles.'

7. Plan a place to perch with paneling and a window seat

(Image credit: Warner House)

You wouldn’t think twice about wallpapering a bedroom or living room, so why not the bathroom? The injection of pattern can completely reinvent a tired space. For classic elegance, try embracing the chinoiserie trend – with a sinuous design in blue and white, it oozes historic charm. Pair with traditional square bathroom paneling ideas in a warm, yet neutral color palette to prevent the print from overwhelming the space. 

'Typically, paneling is painted or stained the same color as the other architectural trim in the space such as the crown, base mold, chair rail, door and window casings. This provides design continuity in the room and provides a nice backdrop to do something creative “above the chair rail” like installing a beautiful wallcovering or painting an interesting color,' advises Gail Jamentz, principal at Soul Interiors Design .

8. Embrace the rustic bathroom-look with reclaimed weatherboard paneling

(Image credit: Future/Brent Darby)

While not a traditional choice for paneling, bathroom paneling made from reclaimed wood is perfect for country bathroom ideas, it is also a great way to increase the sustainability credentials of your bathroom design. It is also perfect if you're trying to incorporate beach bathroom decor into your scheme.

When adding bathroom paneling ideas to your space, it is important to remember that the wood needs to be treated with a primer, sealant and suitable glue in order to prevent the paneling warping or rotting due to the moisture levels in the room. 'While these panels are water resistant enough to be used in bathrooms, they are not totally waterproof and so should not be used in shower enclosures,' says Period Living editor Melanie Griffiths. If you're looking for wall-coverings for shower enclosures. 

For a more waterproof wall-covering for your shower enclosure, shower tiles ideas are a much better option. 

9. Add full length panels for a space inspired by history

(Image credit: Heidi Caillier)

Bathroom paneling ideas are a quick and affordable way to get a high-end look in your bathroom. Saving on wall coverings can give you the opportunity to splash-out on the details that will really make the space sing, like this marble washstand in a bathroom designed by Heidi Caillier . Marble bathroom ideas are a great way to give your bathroom the luxury-look.

'I love paneling for powder rooms and smaller bathrooms, it can add so much design interest with such little budget and time,' says Georgia Zikas, Founder at Georgia Zikas Design . 'Consider paneling that is going to complement the size and height of your room, and don't be afraid to have fun with colors and styles. It doesn't always have to be white or cream. This is a great opportunity to have fun with a contrasting color in your overall design scheme that you can use in a bigger way, which will feel less of a commitment than say, painting your entire kitchen that color!'

10. Invest in exposed wood panels for spa-like atmosphere

(Image credit: Neptune)

Evoke the serenity of the natural world by incorporating raw materials into your design. Unpainted wooden bathroom paneling ideas brings natural beauty to the space, evoking a spa-like ambience that is perfect for pairing with the rustic edge created by farmhouse bathroom ideas.  

'Many of our clients seek to introduce natural elements into their homes from living plants and natural lighting, to wood paneling or stone flooring. This "biophilic" approach to design is more than just an aesthetic choice; connecting with natural materials supports our mental and physical well-being,' recommends Patrick Planeta of Planeta Design Group 'If you prefer a more natural look for the paneling, stain and seal with a marine sealant for a watertight finish.'

Can I waterproof paneling?

Yes, you can waterproof paneling so that it can be used to achieve your bathroom paneling ideas. However this needs to be considered from the outset rather than just applying a sealant at the end.

'Adding wood paneling to a bathroom is a great way of adding texture and color, which in turn can add a warmth to what otherwise can be quite a clinical and cold room. Wood paneling works well as a wallcovering on any walls that do not come into direct contact with water, so the shower area is out. It is also important to invest in the right glue; one that is suitable for both interior and exterior use and is capable of dealing with the moisture and humidity changes that occur in the bathroom,' advises BC Design's Barry Cutchie. 

What can I put on my bathroom walls instead of tiles?

You can put wall paneling on your bathroom walls instead of tiles, plus the finished look will be a lot more high-end for a fraction of the cost. 

'Tiles are often very expensive to purchase and once installed cannot really be altered if fashion changes or if you simply fancy a change – after spending all that money you feel obliged to live with them come what may! A bathroom with paneling on the other hand can be radically transformed with a lick of paint. It is also usually much cheaper per square metre than tiles - especially the designer brands,' says Jon Madeley, founder at The English Paneling Company.

Having graduated with a first class degree in English Literature four years ago, Holly started her career as a features writer and sub-editor at Period Living magazine, Homes & Gardens' sister title. Working on Period Living brought with it insight into the complexities of owning and caring for period homes, from interior decorating through to choosing the right windows and the challenges of extending. This has led to a passion for traditional interiors, particularly the country-look. Writing for the Homes & Gardens website as a content editor, alongside regular features for Period Living and Country Homes & Interiors magazines, has enabled her to broaden her writing to incorporate her interests in gardening, wildlife and nature. 

Bathroom wall panel ideas – 12 ways to modernize this classic trend

(Image credit: Benjamin Moore)

Given that it's thought wall paneling originated from as early as the late 15th century, it's safe to say that bathroom wall panel ideas aren't a new phenomenon. However, as a design trend, wall paneling in bathrooms has been embraced in the modern age as a way to resist the stark, sometimes clinical nature of bathroom design. 

However, its historic heritage means that most forms of wall paneling bring a more traditional essence to a bathroom scheme, making it less of a match for those seeking bathroom ideas without some serious design intervention.  

If you're combating the natural characteristics of paneling to make it work in a contemporary bathroom, is it even worth the trouble? In some instances, yes, definitely – wall panels offer a bathroom a lot in terms of both practicality and aesthetics that it's worth fighting for. 

'Functionally, paneling the walls in a bathroom is a good way to protect wall areas that tend to get a lot of traffic,' explains Sarah Zames, Principal Designer at New York-based design studio General Assembly , 'and the linear pattern is a nice way to add some more texture to the space.'  

With that in mind, take inspiration from our expert tips for using paneling in a bathroom – including ideas for twisting traditional paneling designs to suit a modern home and how to work with contemporary paneling styles. 

Bathroom wall panel ideas for a contemporary take on the trend 

1. Combine heritage-style wall paneling with modern elements 

(Image credit: James Merrell)

Heritage-style paneling, whether original or not, can lend a bathroom scheme in the right home a sense of appropriate grandeur. However, if you overplay your hand when it comes to traditional details with wall panels, you'll find your bathroom will come off more period drama than you mean it to. 

'The secret to making it work is in the mix,' says Darren Allison, Managing Director of BC Designs . 'Just remember, opposites attract.'

In this bathroom scheme, classic Regency-style wall panels are contrasted against a fresh white and blue color palette and a modern bathroom tile idea, balancing old and new elements for a design that feels timeless. 

2. Use shiplap wall panels for an uplifting bathroom

(Image credit: Little Greene)

Shiplap panels are most associated with coastal homes, particularly New England-style properties, but with their wide format, horizontal panels, they've been adopted across the world for their minimalist texture and graphic charm. 

This bathroom color idea with two shades split across the shiplap is an interesting take on the half-painted wall trend that's commonly seen with more traditional paneling designs.  

3. Modernize beadboard paneling with contemporary bathroom fixtures

(Image credit: General Assembly)

Beadboard paneling is identifiable by its characteristic bead section between each vertical panel. This detail plays into a certain rural-ideal aesthetic – it's a stalwart of the cottagecore trend after all – that makes it a popular choice, especially for period properties and houses in the countryside. 

However, beadboard can have its place in more contemporary homes too, when combined with the right bathroom fixtures and fittings. 

This modern bathroom design by New York-based interior architects General Assembly combines full-length paneling – meaning none of the fussy edging details when wainscoting beadboard – with streamlined bathroom furniture. 

'For our Catskills house project, we chose to include beadboard paneling in the bathroom to reflect some of the original details of the stone house,' explains General Assembly's Sarah Zames. 'We continued it up to the ceiling to accentuate the height of the space and make it feel a touch more modern. '

4. Opt for wainscoting around your basin faucet

(Image credit: Pooky)

If you're looking beyond bathroom wall tile ideas for your design, wainscoting is an effective choice for use around a basin. As paneling is usually painted in hardier finishes such as eggshell, satin or gloss, it will survive splashes from your faucet much better than a painted wall, even when using bathroom paint throughout. 

Because wainscoting only covers the lower half of your walls, this leaves you the opportunity to combine it with other creative finishes throughout your bathroom, and can be used in combination with tile, other paint colors, and more. 

5. Combine wainscot panels and wallpaper in a bathroom

(Image credit: Polly Wreford)

One of those other options is to combine wainscoting with your favorite bathroom wallpaper ideas. As a rule of thumb, standard wallpaper can be used in a well-ventilated bathroom, in areas that aren't going to directly get wet from faucets or showerheads.  

The beauty of this wallpaper and bathroom wall panel idea is that the wainscoting ensures the wallpaper is kept out of the splash zone. 

'Wall paneling is a brilliant design element to bring to a bathroom where function is so often prioritized over form, but combining this with a detailed and alluring wallpaper can add an element of character and charm, as well as making a room feel larger,' says Emma Coles, Stylist at Sanderson , where this characterful Terrarium wallpaper is from. 'Picking out a color in the wallpaper to match the wall paneling is a brilliant way to execute this look.'

(Image credit: James Merrell)

The durable nature of wall paneling means it's worth considering for a busy bathroom, making it a good powder room idea for your guests. 

Powder rooms don't have to be designed for daily use in the same way as your main bathroom, so you can think bolder when it comes to paneling for this space that you might dare to go when choosing master bathroom ideas.  

Bold color contrasts, unusual paint finishes and plenty of pattern and print – consider how paneling will play a part in a powder room design that will wow visiting guests. 

7.  Install three-quarters paneling to flatter the proportions of your bathroom 

(Image credit: James Merrell)

Three-quarter wall panels will flatter the proportions of homes with lofty ceiling heights, and they can help simplify the horizontal lines across your bathroom. 

Where wainscoting tends to be lower on the wall, you'll find it intersects other elements of your bathroom, from the towel rail to your cabinetry, which may make for an awkward junction. 

A three-quarter height paneling keeps this horizontal line above your head and out of the way. In this small bathroom, this allows the mirror and bathroom wall lights to be framed by the paneling too. 

8.  Choose a bold colour for bathroom wall panels 

(Image credit: Paint and Paper Library)

You might find yourself drawn to specific colors when it comes to painting bathroom paneling. White is a popular choice for a light and airy scheme, but equally dark, rich jewel tones regularly pop up when looking for bathroom color ideas. 

The draw towards these tones stems from its heritage roots, but paneling can be painted in any color to match your scheme. 

'Picking the right color to decorate them with is key; if you prefer a subtle and elegant aesthetic consider a tonal scheme in by matching the wall color with the panel décor, or for more impactful finish pick out a complimentary or feature color to draw the eye,' says Benjamin Moore 's Helen Shaw. 

Here, a vibrant yellow-green wall color, Euphorbia from Paint & Paper Library , brings a zesty energy to this bathroom design. 

9.  Pair a painted ceiling with paneled walls 

(Image credit: James Merrell)

Painted ceilings are a serious bathroom trend at the moment, and this can be extended to a paneled bathroom in a unique way too. This combination of three-quarter paneled walls with a painted ceiling creates a rich contrast that ups the luxury factor while bringing a cozy vibe to this space that will make lingering in the bathtub much more appealing.  

However, while this home's high ceilings can take the burden of this deep blue-black color, be warned that painting your ceiling in a dark color will visually bring the ceiling height down, especially when used on the tops of the walls too. Fortunately for this space, it creates a more intimate bathroom, playing off the other dark tones in the room. 

10. Add new textures to your bathroom scheme with paint

(Image credit: Paint & Paper Library )

Your choice of finish for bathroom paneling will have an impact on how your final scheme reads. 

'As well as choosing the perfect color for your bathroom it is important to consider finish, are you looking for a matt finish or a high sheen gloss finish?' asks Andy Greenall Head of Design, Paint & Paper Library . 

'Different finishes give a different end result, gloss provides a more traditional feel on woodwork or paneling whereas eggshell or satinwood creates a more contemporary finish.'

While this may be true on the whole, experimenting with finishes can give a new twist to a classic bathroom scheme. This dark bathroom idea, for example, uses a matt wall paint mixed with a gloss wood paint to create an interesting texture for a contemporary take on what's otherwise a traditional design. 

11.  Use paneling to streamline your bathroom’s pipework 

(Image credit: Lisa Cunnane c/o Studio Hanson)

Where reconfiguring pipework is too disruptive or when you're looking to install sleek contemporary bathroom fittings like wall-mounted faucets or a cistern, paneling can offer you a design alternative for streamlining your space. 

In this design by Janet Hanson of Studio Hanson, building out carpentry was the obvious solution, but more than just a practicality, it became a key feature of the bathroom design. 

'The wall-mounted cistern needed concealing so the gap above this seemed the obvious choice,' explains Janet. 'I designed the cabinetry to hide the cistern and related pipework whilst also creating a ledge to place toiletries and decorative objects.'

'The ledge has a quartz top to tie in with the vanity to make it a practical surface for wet shampoo bottles. The cabinetry is painted in Farrow & Ball 's Crimson; we tried out a few options before landing on this shade, which is the perfect deep, soft plummy pink, offsetting the petal pink zellige tiles that line the opposite side of the room.'

What kind of paneling can be used in a bathroom?

MDF paneling is the best choice of material for a bathroom, as it's moisture resistant, so unlike wood it won't expand and contract as the humidity in the air shifts. This will help you to avoid cracks after installation, meaning less upkeep on your part. However, you'll need to limit timber paneling to areas that aren't directly exposed to water, such as showers. 

'Whether you opt for traditional symmetrical patterns, the simple elegance of tongue and groove, or a more contemporary geometric design, also ensure that you have thought thoroughly how the installation will work,' recommends Helen Shaw, UK Director at Benjamin Moore. 

'Careful planning is essential so you can ensure that the joins work and that you’ve thought of practical considerations such as it will work in relation to your bathroom fixtures and fittings. '

Outside of timber paneling, panels made from modern composite materials such as Orac Decor , while it's also possible to find traditional paneling designs made from ceramic and porcelain tiles, meaning they can be used in 

What should I use to paint bathroom paneling?

Bathroom woodwork can benefit from being painted in a finish that is slightly more water-resistant and easy-to-scrub than paneling in the rest of the house.  

'Traditionally hardwearing gloss paints were the go-to finish for bathroom paneling and woodwork, but with the breakthrough Intelligent water-based paints, which are completely washable and can be used with the utmost confidence on most surfaces including plaster, woodwork, and even radiators, it’s become a matter of taste rather than simple functionality,' explains Ruth Mottershead, Creative Director of Little Greene . 

'For bathroom paneling, select a hard-wearing, washable finish such as Intelligent Satinwood which will withstand the moisture and knocks of a busy family bathroom, ensuring your walls remain beautiful in a space that often experiences condensation and frequent cleaning. ' 

Hugh is the Deputy Editor of Livingetc.com. From working on a number of home, design and property publications and websites, including Grand Designs, ICON and specialist kitchen and bathroom magazines, Hugh has developed a passion for modern architecture, impactful interiors and green homes. Whether moonlighting as an interior decorator for private clients or renovating the Victorian terrace in Essex where he lives (DIYing as much of the work as possible), you’ll find that Hugh has an overarching fondness for luxurious minimalism, abstract shapes and all things beige. He’s just finished a kitchen and garden renovation, and has eyes set on a bathroom makeover for 2022.  

Bathroom wall panels - 89 photos of modern interior ideas!

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