Bathroom Wall Panelling: How to Master This Enduring Trend?

Design trends in bathrooms come and go. However, wall panelling has remained relevant for a long time. It is one mark of enduring selection that can enhance any bathroom's style and sensation. Whether you are going for a rustic or contemporary look, wall panelling does not limit you regarding a particular style you would like to use. They are your best companion because they are very customisable. 
This post will provide a guide covering everything regarding bathroom wall panelling and the techniques for mastering this fantastic trend. Moreover, we shall present and discuss a few wall panelling ideas to help you orient yourself to the abovementioned method.

What Is Wall Panelling?
Before we explore some exciting styles, colours, and mounting recommendations specific to bathroom wall panelling, let us come to the foremost question: What makes the choice of bathroom wall panelling so widespread? It doesn’t only add beauty; it provides many other useful features, making it a great value-for-money addition to your bathroom.

• Moisture Resistance. Bathrooms are naturally moisture-rich environments, which can cause severe damage to traditional paint or wallpaper. Wall panelling, mainly when made from PVC or treated wood, can far better resist moisture and humidity than many other wall finishes.
• Simple Maintenance. Bathroom walls tend to be dull and unclean due to splashes of water, soap, and other bathroom products. Fortunately, wall panels do not require much maintenance since they are often wiped off with a moist duster.
• Quality. The ideal materials are needed for quality wall panels. Compared to other coverings, wall coverings are less likely to be damaged or discoloured, and their appearance can last for a long time with minimal interference. If you want something long-lasting, panelling is the way to go.
• Style Flexibility. Design options for wall panelling are limitless. Whatever the preference, every individual can find their particular sense of style. In addition, so many colours and finishes can be used to create the desired bathroom style.

Styles of Bathroom Wall Panelling. 
Having established why wall panelling must be considered when redefining a bathroom, let’s now look at wall panelling styles. Depending on the look you’re going for, you can subscribe to any of the following popular styles.

Beadboard Panelling.
Beadboard panelling is one of the most common and beloved styles. It consists of narrow vertical planks with small, rounded ridges or “beads” in between. It’s perfect for giving your bathroom a simple, classic feel, like a blast from the past. Beadboard is usually installed on the lower half of the walls and paired with a dado rail, but it can also cover entire walls for a more rustic effect, making you feel like you have dropped through a time machine. This style is perfect for people who like the old-fashioned feeling of historic chic!

Shiplap.
Until recently, shiplap could only be seen in coastal and farmhouse-style homes. However, it has gained recent popularity. Shiplap panels are flat, long, horizontal panels that enlarge one’s bathroom by promoting air circulation. They present a minimalistic and uncluttered look that is ideal for use in traditional or contemporary bathrooms.

Tongue and Groove.
Tongue and groove panels comprise boards interlocked to provide a neat, sleek appearance on the finished wall. They are very flexible, as you can do them vertically, horizontally, or even diagonally, depending on the effect you want to achieve. Tongue and groove oral structures evoke attachments to country and cottage-style houses, but they can also be relevant in slightly modern decor styles.

Raised and Recessed Panels.
Those searching for a more formal or conventional look could opt for raised and recessed panelled walls. This style gives height to your bathroom, usually with the surroundings of moulding but elevational or recessed sections available in the framework. It is an appropriate option for creating style and sophistication in your bathroom's wall designs.

PVC Panelling.
Although wood panelling remains the traditional choice, PVC panels are excellent and more pragmatic bathroom materials. They are waterproof, durable, and available on various surfaces, such as wood, stone, and even tiles. PVC will do that for you if you enjoy the beauty within but have no natural materials choices.

Choosing the Right Material for Your Bathroom Wall Panelling.
When considering having wall panelling done, one of the most crucial things you need to decide on is the suitable material. Because those areas are always limited in space and due to the humidity and moistness sometimes found in bathrooms, it is ideal to look for a material that can withstand such conditions. Some recommendations you would want to consider are given below.

• Water Resistant MDF: MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) is preferred for bathroom wall cladding since it is cheap and easy to apply. However, regular MDF is subject to wrapping and swelling with intense moisture. If you opt for MDF, ensure it’s moisture-resistant, significantly increasing its durability in a bathroom environment.
• Wood: The actual wooden panelling in the bathroom can also be gorgeous if you like the natural aspect. Just ensure the wood is treated and sealed to avoid moisture damage. Cedar and teak will be the most popular choices, even in bathrooms.
• PVC: It has already been stressed that PVC as a type of bathroom cladding is appealing to anyone, and its benefits are almost endless as PVC is waterproof and does little for maintenance. There is a wide selection, so anyone interested in the aesthetic attributes will not be left out.

Creative Wall Panelling Ideas for Your Bathroom:
As you are familiar with the various options of bathroom wall panels and the different materials used, let's examine some walling styles and decorations to enhance the bathroom's look.

1. Classic White Beadboard.
Where the essence of the design needs to provide added freshness and remain timeless, white beadboard panelling is always a safer option. It brings style and dimension to the walls without overwhelming the interiors' housekeeping theme. Combine it with subway tiles or marble tops, and you get a chic restroom.

2. Bold Colour for a Contemporary Edge.
For those who wish to maintain the traditional look but want a contemporary feel, a good option would be to paint over the panelling a bright and bold colour. Hues like royal blue, emerald green and even gun metal grey will do. Dark colours are more valuable, as they add an element of drama and intensity, especially when combined with sleek and modern features and metallic tones.

3. Half-Wall Panelling for a Balanced Look.
For those who could be more adventurous about using full-wall panelling, they might only do the lower portion of the wall. Some people prefer this look with a dado rail since the horizontal clear structure usually broadens the room's capability and artistry without making it look too exaggerated. Moreover, this is an effective way to create visual interest if the upper part of the wall is painted in a different colour.

4. Mix and Match Different Materials.
Panelling can be used with building elements like tiles or stones to achieve a put-together, textured appearance. For instance, beadboard can be installed on the lower half of the wall and contemporary tile on the upper half. This type of design gives the space an exciting contrast with equal texture and visual weight, which adds significant value to the appearance of your bathroom.

5. Vertical Shiplap as an Attractive Alternative.
When it comes to shiplap, horizontals win the race. A surprising twist can be added to a shiplap plank, which may, in turn, make it upside-down for decorative purposes. Vertical lines also elongate the room and create an air of spaciousness as the eye moves upwards.

6. Warmth And Texture With Wood.
Do you want natural wood in your bathroom? Then, you could try wood covering, but in an old-fashioned style. Whether vintage or reclaimed, wood brings some character to your bathroom in combination with stone and concrete elements.

Limiting Bad Installation Effects for Your Bathroom Wall Panelling.
Hence, creating and installing bath wall panelling is achievable, so it can be considered a do-it-yourself project. Nonetheless, a few steps and procedures guarantee practical mounting and a clean end product.

• Prep the Walls Before Installing Any Panelling: It is good practice to ensure that your bathroom walls are clean, dry, and devoid of severe cracks or holes. If your walls are uneven, use battens or furring strips fitted to provide one flat surface for the installed panels. 
• Measure Twice and Cut Once: When panelling, particular emphasis is placed on taking good measurements. Measure the walls accurately, plus remember to cut one more screw before cutting any of the panels fitted. In addition, it would be wise to make the panels at least a little more significant to purposefully make them shorter than needed. 
• Use the Right Adhesive: If wall panels are glued to the wall, ensure the wall glue/adhesive is bathroom-appropriate. Waterproofing covers with high moisture content will quickly meet this requirement. 
• Seal the Edges: To prevent moisture from going behind the panels, seal the edges where the panels touch the floor, top, and around any fittings. Seal any exposed corners to confidently moisture-protect the panels. If you’ve used durable materials before and have them around, ensure they are not expired or too old.

In conclusion, in the spirit of embracing the wall panelling trend, know that it is here to stay as it appreciates the beauty in every home design. Considering such factors as the wide variety of styles, materials, and colours, it is easy to see why this design feature has been one of the favourites. Whether a sleek and stylish modern bathroom or a warm and inviting country spa-like one, wall panelling can assist in the realisation of any bathroom you dream of. Hence, look at wall panelling ideas and what style would suit your space best and prepare to enhance the look of your bathroom, making it even more appealing and beautiful.

Domestic wall panelling is a practical, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing way to improve and enhance your home. It is particularly applicable if you are modernising an old bathroom or creating a new one from the beginning.
Happy decorating!