Top 5 Types of Wall Paneling That Increase Home Value
- HouseBabyDesign
- Aug 27, 2023
- 10 min read
Updated: 5 days ago
Wall paneling is one of those design choices that feels decorative on the surface, but in reality, it’s architectural. When done well, it can permanently elevate a space, add character, and increase a home’s perceived value without a full renovation.
As an architect and homeowner who has renovated an early 20th-century home and is now designing our forever home from scratch, I approach wall paneling as more than an aesthetic layer. It’s a tool for shaping how a room feels, how it functions, and how it ages over time. The most successful paneling styles are the ones that feel intentional, permanent, and grounded in the home’s architecture, not trendy or temporary.
In this guide, we're breaking down the wall paneling styles that consistently add visual impact, long-term appeal, and resale value, along with tips for choosing the right option for your space.
As an architect and homeowner who has renovated an early 20th-century home and is now designing our forever home from scratch, I approach wall paneling as more than decoration. It’s an architectural tool, one that can shape how a room feels, functions, and ages over time. The most successful paneling styles are those that feel intentional, permanent, and aligned with the home’s character.
Paneling is most effective when it supports how a room is actually used. Our full approach to this is outlined in our space planning and home programming guide.
In This Guide, You’ll Learn:
Which wall paneling styles add the most resale value
Where paneling makes the biggest impact in a home
Modern vs. traditional paneling styles
2026 trends that still feel timeless
How to choose the right paneling for your home’s architecture
Which Wall Paneling Adds the Most Value to Your Home?
Homebuyers respond strongly to architectural details, especially features that feel custom, permanent, and high-quality. Wall paneling checks all of those boxes, which is why it continues to be one of the best value-adding upgrades for both new homes and renovations. The styles that add the most resale value tend to be timeless, well-proportioned, and used strategically in high-impact spaces like entryways, dining rooms, stairways, and living rooms.
Best Value-Adding Paneling Styles
Board and batten:Â Classic, clean, and works in both modern and traditional homes.
Shaker or square panel:Â Consistently ranks as the most universally appealing style.
Beadboard:Â Adds cottage charm and warmth, especially in kitchens and baths.
Picture-frame molding:Â Elegant and upscale without feeling overly ornate.
Vertical tongue-and-groove:Â Great for small spaces because the vertical lines visually lift the room.
When used consistently and installed cleanly, these paneling styles give your home a custom, built-in look that signals quality and increases perceived value during resale.
Where and how you use wall paneling should always relate back to your home’s layout and daily flow. If you’re in the planning stage, our guide on designing a floor plan for everyday living walks through how we think about spatial relationships and long-term usability.
2026 Wall Paneling Trends for Resale Value
Design trends for 2026 continue leaning into warmth, texture, and architectural character. Buyers are prioritizing homes that feel finished and thoughtful, and wall paneling remains one of the strongest ways to achieve that look without a major renovation.
Top 2026 Paneling Trends That Help Resale
Warm white and creamy neutrals instead of cool gray tones
Full-height paneling that adds drama and verticality
Contemporary thin-profile molding with subtle shadow lines
Vertical shiplap replacing horizontal shiplap for a cleaner, modern feel
Monochromatic painted paneling in stone, linen, or clay-inspired shades
Wider beadboard for a more elevated and modern appearance
Sustainable materials like alternative MDF and low-VOC lacquers
These trends pair timeless profiles with updated finishes, which is the ideal combination for improving resale value.
Modern vs Traditional Paneling Styles
Both modern and traditional wall paneling can increase home value, but they create different moods and should ideally match the architecture of your home.
Modern Paneling Styles
Clean, minimal lines
Flat or thin-profile detailing
Vertical orientation
Tone-on-tone paint colors
Works well in new construction, remodels, and contemporary spaces
Traditional Paneling Styles
Raised or recessed profiles
Decorative molding and chair rails
Picture-frame and wainscoting details
Soft, warm finishes
Ideal for colonials, New England homes, and older architecture
Choosing a style that aligns with your home’s character ensures the paneling feels intentional and adds long-term value. We also think paneling should reflect the overall massing and structure of the home—something we explore in depth when comparing ranch-style and multi-story homes for New England living.
For us, timeless design also means planning for long-term comfort and adaptability. We share more about this in our guide to aging-in-place home design.
1
Shiplap Paneling
Shiplap is a timeless favorite known for its rustic charm and versatility. It involves installing long, horizontally overlapping boards along the wall. Shiplap paneling exudes a timeless rustic charm that has found its place in both traditional and modern interiors. Originating from practical purposes in shipbuilding, this type of paneling features horizontally overlapping wooden boards that create distinctive shadow lines. The charmingly weathered appearance of shiplap lends a cozy and welcoming atmosphere to spaces, making it particularly popular for farmhouse and coastal aesthetics. Its versatility allows it to be used in various rooms, from living areas to bedrooms, contributing to its widespread popularity among homeowners looking to infuse their spaces with a touch of warmth and character.
Complexity: Moderate
Affordability: Affordable
Construction:
Measure and mark the wall to determine the layout of the shiplap boards.
Cut the boards to the desired length and sand the edges.
Begin at the bottom and work your way up, securing the boards using a nail gun.
Leave a small gap between each board to create the characteristic shadow line.
Repeat the process for each row, ensuring the boards are level and aligned.
Shop the Looks:
Rug: nuLOOM Hand Woven Chunky Jute Area Rug – A textured neutral rug that grounds the seating area.
Blue-Grey Throw Pillow: MIULEE Decorative Linen Pillow Covers 20x20 – These luminous pillow covers bring a subtle coastal-boho vibe. Ideal for adding a gentle contrast to neutral paneling or blending into a calming palette.
Brass Wall Sconce: Yosoan Brass Boho Vanity Gold Bathroom Wall Sconce – The antique brass finish and clear glass shade adding a subtle nautical touch to any space.
2
Beadboard Paneling
Beadboard paneling features vertical lines and creates a classic and elegant look. Beadboard paneling boasts an elegant and classic aesthetic with its vertical lines and bead-like details. Historically, it was a common architectural element in Victorian homes, known for its ability to add depth and texture to walls. Today, beadboard is celebrated for its timeless appeal, often used in traditional, cottage-inspired, and vintage-themed interiors. Its straightforward installation and ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia have contributed to its continued popularity. Beadboard's clean and orderly appearance makes it well-suited for spaces where a touch of understated elegance is desired.
Complexity: Easy
Affordability: Affordable
Construction:
Measure and cut the beadboard panels to the desired height.
Apply adhesive to the back of the panels and press them onto the wall.
Secure the panels with finishing nails to ensure a snug fit.
Install baseboard and chair rail trim to complete the wainscoting effect.
Beadboard wall paneling adds subtle texture and classic charm without overpowering the room. It’s a timeless choice that works especially well in spaces where you want warmth, brightness, and a relaxed, approachable feel. 
Wood wall paneling paired with built-in cabinetry creates a layered, custom look that feels permanent rather than decorative. In functional spaces like pantries or wet bars, paneling adds warmth and intention—turning utility into design.
3
Board and Batten
Board and batten involves placing vertical boards (the "boards") and capping them with a horizontal board (the "batten").Board and batten paneling is characterized by vertical boards ("boards") and a horizontal cap ("batten") that create a visually striking pattern on walls. This style has roots in historical architecture and has evolved to suit contemporary design preferences. Board and batten is celebrated for its ability to add texture and visual interest, making it a favored choice for those seeking a blend of classic and modern aesthetics. It often finds its place in transitional, farmhouse, and industrial-inspired interiors. The interplay between vertical and horizontal elements contributes to its dynamic and visually captivating look.
Complexity:Â Moderate
Affordability:Â Moderate
Construction:
Measure and cut the vertical boards to the desired height.
Install the vertical boards along the wall, leaving a gap between each.
Attach the horizontal batten at the top to cap the vertical boards.
Add additional horizontal battens if desired for a more pronounced effect.
4
Wainscoting
Wainscoting consists of installing decorative panels on the lower portion of the wall, typically topped with a chair rail. Wainscoting paneling, a term derived from "waggen," meaning "wall" in Old English, has a rich history dating back to the 16th century. Originally installed to protect walls from chairs and other furniture, wainscoting has evolved into a decorative feature that adds sophistication and architectural interest. With various designs and heights available, wainscoting can cater to both formal and casual aesthetics. It's a popular choice for traditional and classic interiors, including dining rooms and hallways, where it lends an air of elegance and refinement.
Complexity: Moderate
Affordability: Moderate
Construction:
Measure and cut the wainscoting panels to the desired height.
Apply adhesive to the back of the panels and press them onto the wall.
Secure the panels with finishing nails and ensure they are level.
Install the chair rail trim on top of the wainscoting to complete the look.
Dark wall paneling with decorative molding creates a rich, layered backdrop that feels sophisticated and architectural. This style of paneling works especially well in formal living spaces, offices, or entryways where you want depth, contrast, and a sense of permanence. 
Wainscoting adds subtle architectural texture to this sunlit hallway, grounding the space while allowing light and materials to shine. Paneling at chair-rail height helps define long corridors, making them feel warmer, more intentional, and visually engaging.
5
Wood Slat Walls
Wood slat walls feature horizontal wooden slats attached to the wall, creating a contemporary and textured look. Wood slat walls have gained significant popularity in contemporary interior design due to their sleek, modern, and minimalist aesthetic. This style features horizontal wooden slats attached directly to the wall, often with varying gaps between them. The resulting pattern creates a sense of depth and texture, making it an ideal choice for adding visual interest to otherwise monotonous spaces. Wood slat walls are celebrated for their versatility, working well in both residential and commercial settings. They are frequently employed to create accent walls, room dividers, and headboards, bringing a touch of architectural intrigue to modern and urban interiors. Amazon offers kits in a variety of finishes such as Oak and Walnut for modular assembly with built in felt backers for acoustics and high-end contrast.
Complexity: Moderate
Affordability: Moderate
Construction:
Measure and mark the wall to determine the layout of the wood slats.
Cut the slats to the desired length and sand the edges.
Attach the slats directly to the wall using screws or nails, ensuring they are level and evenly spaced.
Leave a small gap between slats for an appealing visual effect.
Finish the slats with stain or paint to achieve the desired appearance.
Wall Paneling Styles Comparison Chart
Paneling Style | Best For | Resale Appeal | Cost | Difficulty | 2026 Trend Level |
Board & Batten | Entryways, living rooms | Excellent | $$ | Moderate | High |
Vertical Shiplap | Bathrooms, bedrooms, mudrooms | Strong | $$ | Easy | Very High |
Picture-Frame Molding | Hallways, dining rooms | Excellent | $ | Easy | Medium |
Beadboard | Kitchens, baths | Good | $ | Easy | Medium |
Shaker Panels | Whole-home applications | Outstanding | $$ | Moderate | Very High |
DIY & Tool Essentials
Even if you’re hiring a contractor for your wall paneling project, there are a few essential tools and supplies that make the process smoother — and they’re worth keeping in your toolkit for future projects. These tools will pay for themselves across other home upgrades — hanging shelves, updating trim, or even building furniture.
Cordless Drill/Driver Kit – A versatile drill like the DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill/Driver Kit handles everything from driving screws into battens to pre-drilling holes for trim.
Stud Finder – Accurate placement is key when attaching paneling. The Franklin Sensors ProSensor 710 Stud Finder reads multiple studs at once for reliability.
Level or Laser Level – Crisp lines are what make paneling look professional. The BOSCH GPL100-30G Green-Beam Self-Leveling Alignment Laser projects straight guides across your wall so you don’t waste time adjusting.
Caulking Gun & Finishing Supplies – Filling seams and finishing edges elevates the look. The Newborn 930-GTD Drip-Free Caulking Gun makes clean bead application simple.
Painter’s Tape & Angled Brush – Once the paneling is up, a neat paint job completes the transformation. FrogTape Multi-Surface Painter’s Tape and a Purdy XL Angled Brush ensure sharp, professional lines.
Wall Paneling FAQs
Does wall paneling increase home value?
Yes—especially when it’s timeless, well-proportioned, and used strategically in high-impact spaces like entryways, dining rooms, and stairways Top 5 Types of Wall Paneling to….
What wall paneling styles are most appealing to buyers?
Styles like board and batten, shaker panels, beadboard, and picture-frame molding tend to perform best because they feel classic and architectural rather than trendy Top 5 Types of Wall Paneling to….
Is wall paneling too trendy?
Not when you choose profiles that are historically rooted and scaled appropriately. The most successful paneling feels permanent, not decorative Top 5 Types of Wall Paneling to….
Where should you use wall paneling?
High-impact spaces like entryways, living rooms, stairways, and dining rooms tend to offer the greatest return visually and financially