Panels for Living Room Walls - An Easy Update
Looking to refresh your living room on a budget? Installing wall panels can transform the space with visual interest for a fraction of the cost of a full remodel. With so many affordable options now available, living room wall panels are an easy upgrade that even renters can enjoy.
Wall panels can add depth, texture, and character to otherwise flat, boring walls. From shiplap and faux wood planks to 3D geometric shapes and bold patterns, panels allow you to customize your living room to match your personal style. And you don't need special skills to install them. With just a few tools and basic DIY abilities, you can install living room wall panels in a weekend.
Benefits of Living Room Wall Panels
Why should you consider installing wall panels in your living room? Here are some of the top benefits:
- Visually enhance the space - Panels add interest to plain walls with color, texture, and dimension.
- Modernize the aesthetic - Wall panels give a contemporary, trendy look.
- Inexpensive update - Much less costly than remodeling or redecorating an entire room.
- Easy DIY project - Panels can be installed directly over existing walls.
- Customizable - Choose from various materials, sizes, shapes, and colors.
- Conceal flaws - Cover up dents, cracks, or discoloration on walls.
- Improve acoustics - Absorb sound better than drywall alone.
- Clean look - Panels have a streamlined appearance without clutter.
Whether you want to accent one focal wall or cover every surface for a cohesive style, living room wall panels offer an affordable way to refresh your space.
Popular Types of Wall Panels
With so many options available today, you're sure to find wall panels to match your preferred aesthetic. Here are some of the most popular styles:
3D Wall Panels
Three-dimensional wall panels add geometric interest with various shapes and depths. Options include hexagons, concave panels, rectangles, triangles, and more. 3D panels work especially well over natural wood tones or neutrals.
Fabric Wall Panels
For a soft, welcoming look, fabric wall panels provide texture without weight. Choose lighter cottons or linens for a breezy style, or opt for velvet or faux silk in bold colors. Fabric panels absorb sound and are easy to install.
Faux Wood Planks
Faux wood planks offer the rustic aesthetic of shiplap without the cost. Vinyl and PVC planks mimic the look of weathered barnwood but are more affordable and easier to install than the real thing.
Concrete Wall Panels
Concrete panels lend an urban, industrial vibe with their cool gray tones. Concrete-style wall panels come in glossy, matte, or textured finishes. Pair with pops of color for contrast.
Stone Wall Panels
For natural texture, stone wall panels bring the outdoors in. Faux versions recreate looks of slate, travertine, and other stones at a fraction of the weight and cost. Use stone panels to create a rustic cottage or luxurious spa-like retreat.
Wallpaper Panels
Self-adhesive wallpaper panels allow you to paper a wall without the mess or hassle of traditional wallpaper. Many companies offer removable peel-and-stick wallpaper panels in a huge variety of prints and colors.
Metal Wall Panels
From galvanized tin to copper, brass, and stainless steel, metal wall panels add an industrial edge. The sleek, reflective surface bounces light around the room. Use metal panels in bold colors or metallic finishes.
Design Ideas for Living Room Wall Panels
How you arrange and display your new living room wall panels will impact the overall look. Here are some popular configuration ideas:
Accent Wall Behind Couch
Accentuate the wall behind your sofa with a statement treatment of wall panels. This grabs attention while also absorbing sound from the TV. Try bold patterns or metallic finishes for maximum impact.
Full Wall Treatment
For a cohesive look, install matching panels on all four living room walls. Use lighter colors and simple panel styles so the room doesn't feel too busy or dark. Add visual interest with variations in size and layout.
Geometric Patterns
Make a graphic statement by arranging 3D or flat wall panels in geometric formations. Play with triangles, diamonds, hexagons, and chevron shapes. Keep furniture and accessories simple to let the bold patterns stand out.
Nature-Inspired Textures
Bring the beauty of nature indoors with organic textures like wood planks, stone, or woven details. Coordinate with houseplants, rattan furniture, jute rugs, and other natural elements.
Bold, Vibrant Colors
Why stick with safe neutrals? Show your bold style by covering walls in vibrant coral, emerald, or sapphire hues. Let the vivd panels make the style statement instead of decor and accessories.
Metallic Finishes
For glamorous allure, install brass, copper, silver, or gold wall panels. Metallics reflect light around the room and feel both modern and luxurious. Pair with glass coffee tables, fur throws, and sleek leather.
Tips for Installing Wall Panels
Installing wall panels is a relatively easy DIY project. Here are some tips for getting it done right:
Measure Carefully
Take time to carefully measure each wall and order enough panels to cover the space. Leave an extra 5-10% for mistakes or later expansion.
Clean Surfaces
Wipe down walls with a degreaser and sand lightly to remove gloss, peeling paint, or roughness so panels adhere properly.
Use a Level
Check panels for level placement as you install to maintain straight lines. Laser levels help, or use a long spirit level.
Follow Instructions
Read and follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying adhesive, allowing drying time, and sealing any gaps.
Fill Gaps
Use silicone caulk that matches the panel color to fill any gaps between panels or seams.
Add Molding
Install coordinating trim pieces where panels meet the wall or ceiling for a polished look.
Take Your Time
Don't rush the installation. Allow adhesive to fully cure before hanging decor or furnishings on the panels.
Once your new living room wall panels are installed, finish the look with decorative accents like:
- Framed artwork or mirrors complementing the colors and textures
- Sconces or track lighting mounted on or above the panels
- Floating shelves to display cherished items against a bold panel backdrop
- Warm lighting like table and floor lamps to create cozy ambiance
- Area rugs layering shapes and textures underfoot
- Plants for fresh greenery against modern panels
You can install living room wall panels quickly and easily. Dress up those dull, dated walls with modern texture and style.