Heres how to utilize the traditional millwork technique known as wainscoting to bring out the best in your space.
What Is Wainscoting?
First, lets get down to basics.
Credit: Annie Schlechter
Wainscoting is a bang out of wood paneling thats both decorative and functional.
Ceiling height may influence what height is appropriate for your space.
In this lofty space, for example, even 42-inch wainscoting would seem a little short.
Credit:Jean Allsopp
Insteadby opting for a more height-appropriate applicationthe eye is drawn up to the cathedral ceiling.
The wall-mounted sink is framed within the wall paneling for a custom look that’s both fresh and timeless.
Keeping the walls and architectural detailsfrom thecrown moldingto the windowsmonochromatic ensures the space doesnt feel too busy.
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Wainscoting is a great way to dress up an entry, but it can quickly become overly formal.
To keep the look cohesive,paint your wainscotingand stair risers the same color.
Then, add visual interest by playing with color on the wall above the millwork.
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Instead, mix things up to work with your aesthetic.
For instance, considerusing shiplapas wainscoting.
Combining the two creates acoastal cottagefeel that’s just right.
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Enhance Architectural Features
Tria Giovan
Sometimes architectural features need a spotlight to come out of their shell.
Here, wainscoting with a more minimalistic approach highlights a half-rotunda of windows.
The result is millwork that doesnt compete with the windows for attention and instead, enhances the sun-drenched space.
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To keep a wainscoting design subtle, paint it the same color as your walls.
Consider how you could use both paint color and pattern in a space tofurther the vintage feel.
Whilegrass cloth makes for a stunning wallcovering, it can be both expensive and hard to clean.
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Itll set you up for successand fewer touchups.
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Credit:Tria Giovan
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