PANEL SHOW

FOR WALLS WITH INTEREST, TEXTURE AND A TOUCH OF DRAMA, IT'S TIME TO KNOCK ON WOOD

- ANDRÉA CHILDS

TALL ORDER

Floor-to-ceiling vertical panelling makes ceilings appear higher and, painted in a soft cream, it creates a relaxed country vibe. For a DIY option, make a batten framework for the wall as a fixing point and slot the tongue-and groove timber together before nailing in place. It makes a clever cover-up for walls that are less than perfect.

1 Similar woodwork paint, Deep Water Green in architects eggshell, £75 for 2.5ltr, Paint & Paper Library. For reclaimed limed oak panels, try UK Architectural Heritage

1 IN THE LIMELIGHT

Create contrast by arranging strips of panelling in both vertical and horizontal formations. Here, the smooth finish of the green-painted wood on the wall juxtaposes the rough texture of the limed-oak kitchen island. By choosing planks of the same width, the look comes together harmoniously.

2 Pine planks, from timber merchants. Paint for wash, Purbeck Stone estate eggshell, £52 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball

2 CABIN CLASS

Swap a headboard for Scandi-style simplicity of paint-washed pine planks fixed vertically behind the bed. If you are installing the panels yourself, buy raw pine 6x1in tongue and groove. Sand down any rough knots in the wood and protect with matt varnish. Then paint with a wash of equal parts paint and water, mixed. The wood grain will show through for a natural, rustic look.