Give Your Living Room Texture with Wall Panels

Installing wall panels is an easy and affordable way to add visual interest to any living room. The textures and dimensions they provide instantly give character to plain drywall while allowing for customization. Wall panels come in styles ranging from rustic wood planks to modern 3D geometric shapes, so they can match decor of almost any style. We'll overview popular panel options, creative ways to install them, and tips for perfectly executing your project.

The term "panels for living room walls" may conjure images of dated 1970s wood-paneled basements. But modern panels have come a long way and now offer chic options like dimensional woven textures or faux ceramics. Aside from looking far more stylish, one of the best aspects of wall panels is they simply stick to your existing drywall. This means you can dramatically transform your living room without intensive demo or installation work.

Types of Wall Panels for Living Rooms

With the variety of materials and finishes now available, it's easier than ever to find living room wall panels to suit your personal taste. Here are some of the most popular styles.

Wood Wall Panels

Nothing imparts natural texture quite like wood wall panels. Opt for bamboo panels for a light and contemporary look or reclaimed barn wood planks for a cozy rustic vibe. Pine panels offer an affordable option, while rich cedar brings depth with its striking grain. Wood panels can be painted or stained to match your color palette.

• Popular wood types - pine, cedar, bamboo, etc.
• Stained, painted, or natural finish options
• Rustic, modern, contemporary style options

3D and Textured Wall Panels

These specialty panels add eye-catching dimension to walls. Textures like concrete, ceramic tile, or embossed geometric shapes provide depth and make ordinary drywall pop. Flexible PVC and MDF panels curve to fit corners beautifully. Go for an abstract floral texture or modern hexagons--the options are limitless.

• Materials - PVC, MDF, vinyl, etc.
• Dimensional and embossed textures
• Abstract shapes and nature-inspired textures

Faux Brick and Stone Wall Panels

Brick, stacked stone, and faux tile panels infuse rustic ambiance instantly. Their lightweight material installs far easier than the real deal. Blend stone and wood textures to create a "reclaimed" wall or go for bold, contrasting colors. Use brick panels solo or mix variated sizes to emulate authentic brickwork.

• Realistic brick, stone, and tile textures
• Lightweight material easier to install than real stone
• Interior and exterior grade options

Where to Install Wall Panels in Your Living Room

Wall panels overhaul living rooms when installed strategically as an accent wall. But clever placements, like framing a fireplace or hiding unsightly media components, also create striking focal points. Here are inspiring ideas.

Behind the Sofa

Use panels to make that awkward space behind your sofa shine. Opt for light colors to avoid making the area seem dark and crowded. Install lighting to create ambiance and consider open shelving to break up the panels while offering decorative display space.

• Creates a textured focal point
• Hide cords or imperfect walls
• Incorporate lighting

Full Accent Wall

For serious drama, install panels from floor to ceiling on one wall. Paint remaining walls a harmonious neutral tone so your accent wall pops. Hang art and lighting to draw attention. Try placing your television on a contrasting accent wall--the panels make cords disappear.

• Dramatic statement wall
• Paint remaining walls a neutral tone
• Coordinate with artwork

Around the Fireplace

Define your entire fireplace wall with panels. For farmhouse style, overlap reclaimed wood planks. Or emulate an English pub with brick or stone panels surrounding your hearth. Extend panels all the way to the ceiling for a stunning custom look.

• Rustic wood panels for farmhouse style
• Stacked stone panels suit traditional decor
• Extend to ceiling for custom look

Tips for Installing Wall Panels

Installing panels on your own is totally doable. Follow manufacturer guidelines and properly prep your walls to ensure your project goes smoothly from start to stunning finish.

Measure Carefully

Like any home improvement project, accurate measurements ensure your panels fit perfectly with minimal adjustments or gaps. Account for windows, outlets, and other wall features when planning your layout.

• Exact measurements for custom fit
• Account for outlets and windows

Prepare the Wall Surface

Panels adhere best to smooth, clean walls free of cracks, bumps and imperfections. Fill any holes or flaws with spackle, allowing time to dry completely. Lightly sand bumps. Clean then prime walls so panels bond tightly.

• Clean, smooth surface for best adhesion
• Fill cracks and holes
• Prime if needed

Follow Manufacturer's Instructions

Always consult the manufacturer's guide for recommended adhesives, special fasteners, or overlapping specifications essential for proper installation. Taking time to install panels correctly prevents headaches down the road.

• Recommended adhesive and fasteners
• Overlap panels properly
• Leave expansion gaps

Style Your New Textured Living Room

The beauty of wall panels lies in their versatility. Match myriad styles by tailoring surrounding decor and furnishings. Here are some stylish combinations.

Bohemian Style

Flaunt your free spirit with woven rattan in natural hues or sleek modern bamboo panels punctuated by macrame hangings and overflowing potted plants. Layer in Moroccan-style carpets and tapestries for eclectic texture.

• Woven rattan or bamboo panels
• Layered carpets and tapestries
• Plants, macrame, artwork

Modern Farmhouse

Crisp white shiplap paired with reclaimed barnwood panels exudes comfortable sophistication. Incorporate natural textures like jute rugs, linen drapery and antique-inspired accents like woven baskets. The rustic panels juxtapose beautifully against sleek furniture.

• White shiplap or reclaimed wood
• Natural textures and finishes
• Woven baskets, linen fabrics

Contemporary

Make a sleek modern statement with large-format 3D panels in graphic prints or bold colors. Pair with glass and metal tables and accessories in high-contrast black and white or vibrant hues. Use panels to define specific zones like dining areas.

• Sleek large-scale 3D panels
• Bold colors and geometric shapes
• Glass, metal accents

FAQ

Are wall panels easy to install?

Most wall panel styles simply adhere directly to existing drywall, making them very DIY-friendly. Always consult the manufacturer's instructions though, as some panels may require special adhesives or be quite heavy, necessitating extra installation support.

Do panels work on uneven walls?

Slightly uneven, bumpy or cracked walls can be prepped to create a smoother surface for panels to adhere properly. Fill divots, prime walls and use construction adhesive for best results. Very uneven walls may require furring strips to mount panels evenly.

Can you paint over wall panels?

The answer really depends on the panel material. Painting wood or MDF panels works great and enables endless customization. Vinyl, PVC and some textured 3D panels however don't accept paint well at all. If unsure, contact the manufacturer before attempting to paint over wall panels.

Wall panels make transforming your living room refreshingly straightforward. With so many styles boasting customizable finishes, you can easily match your home's character whether it leans traditional, modern, industrial or anywhere between. Strategically placed panels build focal points while concealing unsightly fixtures or flaws effortlessly.

Just remember to carefully prep your installation surface and follow all manufacturer guidelines. Then stand back and admire your gorgeous new textural feature wall that looks straight out of a design magazine.