How to create a stunning wood panelled feature wall for your living space

I love combining elements of nature into the home, and adding a panelled feature wall to our lounge has really added a new dimension to the living space.

Couldn’t be happier with our feature wall

Another post from the archives that didn’t get the air-time it deserved (in my opinion) with just 39 views!

I thought I’d re-share how we created our wood panelled feature wall with you all this week, which completely transformed our living space.

Earlier this year, I shared how we transformed our master bedroom using wood panelling. For that project, we purchased ready-made wood panelled slats, however, when we decided to create a feature wall for the living room we opted to create our own bespoke wood panelled wall, as the ready-made panels didn’t match our specific requirements.

If you missed our bedroom transformation post, you can catch up here. It’s since been archived, so I’ve removed the paywall.

---

Transforming our master bedroom into a space I'm proud of

---

I love combining elements of nature into the home, and adding a panelled feature wall to our lounge has really added a new dimension to the living space.

When I started researching all the different wood panelling options for this project, I decided a simplistic design of American Black Walnut timber was the right direction for our modern home.

As I’m sure you’re aware there are a number of brands available where you can purchase ready-made panelling. This is exactly what we did with our bedroom; although, where’s the fun in that when you can create your own bespoke panelling, specific to your requirements?

Step 1: Design and measure

The first thing is to create your design on paper and make sure all the dimensions are right. Check, check and check again! The last thing you want is to find out you’ve either not ordered enough wood or ordered too much.

Create your design on paper

Step 2: Prepare the base

We purchased MDF sheets to attach to the wall, providing a secure base for the wooden strips.

Before we started, I marked out all the measurements directly onto the MDF sheets, just to be sure everything was worked out correctly. It’s a lot easier to redraw the design at this stage rather than going straight in with gluing the timber and then finding things aren’t lined up as they should be.

Mark out your measurements onto the MDF sheets

Step 3: Position and paint

The MDF sheets are then positioned in place to provide a secure base for the wooden strips. Since wood is a natural material, it can shrink, so this helps prevent movement if attached directly to the wall.

Masking tape was applied to show where the wooden strips were to be positioned, and then the whole wall (including the MDF base) was painted using Little Greene Knightsbridge.

Feature wall painted in Little Green Knightsbridge

From removing the masking tape, you can really start to see how the feature wall is coming together.

Now the fun begins!

Step 4: Attach the wooden strips

Once the American Black Walnut, which we purchased from British Hardwoods, was cut to size, each wooden strip was glued into position. The wooden strips are glued directly to the MDF (wood to wood) and not on the paint.

Wooden strips glued to the MDF base

Step 5: Oil the feature wall

The final step is to oil the feature wall. We used Osmo Satin Clear oil, which really brings out the beauty of the American Black Walnut.

Oiling of the feature wall

I’m so happy with how this room has turned out, and adding a wood panelled feature wall has really brought this space to life.

Final wood panelled feature wall

Is wood paneling something you’d consider in your home? Do let me know in the comments.

I’m also planning a post to answer any of your interior design dilemmas. If you have a question or looking for some advise on your next interiors project please either share in comments, or if you prefer send me a private message.

I’ll do my best to try and answer as many of your questions I can.

I’m also excited to share The Bathroom Diaries will be back this Sunday, with more progress to share with you.

Until then, enjoy the start of your weekend.

Please do tap on the heart 🤎 if you have enjoyed reading this post, a comment or re-stack click helps even more with visibility in getting my work shared with more readers 😊.