Zooey Deschanel and Jonathan Scott's Georgian revival is among the most nostalgic celebrity homes we've had the pleasure of discovering.
From the botanical wall coverings to their antique furnishings that bring a certain uniqueness to their space, the couple has ensured their home pays tribute to its roots – but there is, arguably, nothing more striking than its wooden paneling.
Property Brother Jonathan and actress Zooey have accentuated their home's most beautiful architectural asset, the wood paneling that graces both ceiling and walls. The aesthetic is dark, moody, and strikingly traditional, but it's also right on trend, as experts discuss.
Despite its historic nature, paneling like Zooey and Jonathan's is shaping interior design trends for 2024, with some experts saying that its ornate details are reminiscent of an ageless European aesthetic.
'Details seen in Victorian interiors and architecture will be having an influence in 2024. We have already seen paneling becoming popular in 2023, with the ornate details to pick up more traction in the year ahead,' comments Olivia Crosher, a designer and visual stylist for Naturewall.
'Decorative wood paneling and moldings are also reminiscent of Parisian design, creating huge interest in homes. They add depth and texture to spaces with their intricate designs, instantly elevating an interior.'
Thanks to its historic origins, this wall decor paneling works seamlessly in Jonathan and Zooey's home – but how can we bring this look to life in a more modern setting? Olivia reassures it's possible, but it may have a more contemporary feel to this space.
'The mixing of new and old will be an extension of this trend. We will see people leaning into creating their own style by pairing modern, unusual furniture and patterns with the traditional backdrop of paneling to create a unique look,' she says. And why should we stop with wood? We can also add interest to our walls with other materials, such as silk (that will look particularly perfect in a dressing room), in a historic-inspired step away from the conventional.
'Texture will always be a key interior feature used to add depth and interest to a space, particularly important for creating a warm and welcoming home. Materials such as rattan, silk, and wool mixes are seen on walls to elevate interiors one step further, drenching the full rooms with the material,' Olivia says.
Walls and ceiling aside, we're taping into Jonathan and Zooey's dark academia look with these buys below.
This chic tufted sofa is available in three sizes and countless colors to fit in any space. We are especially fans of the fern color, which matches Zooey's olive green couch.
