If you're looking to take your interior design to the next level, adding wood wall paneling is a high-impact way to do it. In this guide, you'll learn about different wood paneling options, design tips, and why this feature is perfect for modern farmhouse style in particular. We'll also go over where to install them for maximum impact. 

Types of wood paneling 

Shiplap

Shiplap paneling features opposing rabbets or grooves that help it lock together. Shiplap's grooves alternate between top and bottom. At the top, the groove faces the wall and you can't see it. At the bottom, the groove faces outward. These opposing forces side by side create a weathertight bond--and a slightly rustic look. 

Board and Batten

Board and batten uses narrow strips of wood (battens) placed over the joints of much wider boards. This clean, proportional accent wall is endlessly versatile.

Beadboard

This refers to wood planks made of tongue-and-groove panels. Beadboard is vertically placed on the wall and capped off by strips of molding on both the top and bottom. 

Reclaimed

Reclaimed wood panels are repurposed, salvaged lumber from existing structures. This wood is heat treated and refurbished to be used again, while retaining its weathered texture and marks of its past life. Nail holes, saw marks, and other signs of wear only enhance the appeal of reclaimed wood--because it's meant to evoke bygone eras.  

Wood Paneling Design Tips

Embrace patterns

Incorporating a pattern like herringbone or chevron only amplifies the beauty of wood accent walls. This is especially true for modern, minimalist interiors--they can handle patterns without being overwhelmed. 

Consider a half accent wall

You can create a half accent wall to subtly enhance your space, also known as "wainscoting." A half accent wall works especially well in more traditional spaces, and is commonly done with beadboard and shiplap. It can also be done with reclaimed if you want a more understated effect than a full reclaimed wall. 

Use it to emphasize an architectural feature

Want to make your vaulted ceilings even more impressive, or make a charming built-in cabinet stand out? Wood accent walls can help you do that. Why not add wood paneling to the ceiling, or to a recessed alcove? Bonus: it looks fabulously bespoke and custom. 

Create visual boundaries 

Wood accent walls can be configured to mark out "zones" within a room. Whether it's a way of separating your crafting corner from the rest of your living room, or creating a cozy reading nook in your bedroom, you can use accent walls to create visual boundaries and segment spaces. You can also use accent wall materials on panels to create room dividers that are both functional and beautiful.  

Best Wood Accent Walls for Modern Farmhouse Style

• Virtually any kind of accent wall can work for this appealing blend of rustic and modern. Here are our picks for modern farmhouse accent walls:
• Shiplap: this wood accent wall style has become a favorite for modern farmhouse--as you may be familiar with if you're a fan of Chip and Joanna Gaines.  
• Yakisugi/Shou Sugi Ban: this specialized kind of exterior wood siding originates from Japan. Traditionally, cypress planks are treated to a hot, fast burn before being quenched with water. The loose char from the burn can then be brushed off, though traditionally it's left on. Why do we recommend this for interior accent walls? Well, when the surface is brushed, it creates a beautiful tiger-stripe effect--which can elevate any room. It's a twist on the "rustic" look. 
• Reclaimed: It's hard to go wrong with reclaimed wood for any rustic, farmhouse, or western-inspired space. True genuine reclaimed creates a powerful aura of warmth and character. 

Best Wood Accent Walls For Modern Style

• Wide wood panels: think mid-century modern. Wide flush wood panels are your shortcut to an elegant, luxurious look that's radically simple. 
• Chevron panels: Whether reclaimed or new lumber, chevron patterned wood accent walls create texture, scale, and drama. 
• Unique shapes: Looking for an even more unique and interesting design feature? An accent wall with curved or circular shape, while more difficult to install, creates the ultimate "wow" factor in a modern space. 

Best Wood Accent Walls for Traditional Homes

• Beadboard: you can't go wrong with beadboard, topped off with a moulding. Consider painting it in a contrasting color from the wall paint for maximum impact. If your space is quite small, don't paint it a dark color or choose a dark wood, as this can close off the space. Instead, opt for a lighter, neutral-ish accent color or a blond wood like Maple or Ash.  
• Patterned wainscoting: Wainscoting is common for older or more classic style homes. Why not arrange your wainscoting in eye-catching herringbone or chevron for a stylish update? 
• Board and batten: This paneling style creates elegant proportions and is a no-brainer for traditional spaces. It's especially good for living rooms, where it can add structure to gallery walls or showcase your chosen artwork.   

Wood Wall Paneling Considerations: Where not to put them 

There are a few situations where wood accent walls aren't ideal. First, in general, they shouldn't go in bathrooms-especially if you aren't painting them. All that steam and moisture will create swelling in the wood and potentially cause decay. Second, don't put wood paneling above baseboard heaters. The heat causes the wood to bow with time, so the wall surface will not be flush. Otherwise, wood accent walls are super versatile and can work almost anywhere in your home, from the entryway to the laundry room--whatever suits your style.