Wall panelling makes pretty much any room look elevated and more considered. But we particularly have a soft spot for wall panelling ideas for hallways. Why? In most entryways, there isn’t a whole lot of space to work with which makes the task of decorating a little challenging.
Wall panelling ideas provide the perfect solution to this issue because it can give your hall everything from some texture and pattern to colour without taking up any extra space. And panelling can even make your entryway appear bigger than it really is so it makes for the perfect small hallway idea if you ask us.
Wall panelling ideas for hallways
‘Using wall panelling in your hallway is a great trick to make the space appear bigger,’ says Summa Costandi, co-founder of decorative wall panelling company Panels by Sofia. ‘However, there are a couple of things to consider.’
So without further ado, let’s see the best wall panelling styles to incorporate into your hallway design.
1. Panel only one wall
If you’re in need of some narrow hallway ideas - as most of us are - then panelling just one wall of your entryway is one to add to your to-do list.
‘If you’re working with a particularly narrow hallway, I’d recommend using panelling on one wall only, with the other wall painted in a light colour, as this will make the space feel more open,’ Summa at Panels by Sofia explains.
2. Opt for vertical panelling
Most hallways tend to be on the smaller side so using wall panelling to visually expand the space is a tool most of us could use. And for that, any type of vertical panelling works the best.
‘Panels with clean vertical lines, such as ribbed or fluted styles, are great options in the hallway as they naturally draw the eye upwards, creating the illusion of more space. Team these with a wallpaper of your choice, making sure the design doesn’t clash with the lines created by your panels,’ Summa at Panels by Sofia advises.
She continues to explain the difference between ribbed and fluted wall panelling, some of the most on-trend wall panelling styles of 2025. ‘Ribbed wall panels have vertical, rounded ridges and are great for adding interesting texture to create a sophisticated aesthetic. Fluted panels feature a scalloped design that runs vertically down the panel and are a very on-trend interior feature right now. This elegant style beautifully bounces the light and will add a touch of luxury to your hallway.’
One of the hidden benefits of many vertical slat panelling available on the market is that they are acoustic, in other words noise cancelling.
This on-trend reeded wall panelling will instantly elevate your hallway. And you can paint it any colour or finish you like to match your entryway's decor and colour palette.
Whether you want to apply this finish to only a section of your hallway or cover the whole wall with this style, this fluted Naturewall panel is perfect for bringing style and texture into your entryway.
3. Go for light, welcoming shades
When it comes to your hallway colour scheme, welcoming but soft shades that will reflect the light well are usually the most recommended. And that advice extends to the ideal colour of hallway wall panelling.
‘Soft, neutral tones such as warm whites, muted greys and gentle greens work beautifully in hallways,’ says Claire Garner, director of Claire Garner Design Studio. ‘These shades help to brighten and open up the space, making it feel more inviting. If the hallway lacks natural light, a warm off-white or pale sage can add depth without making it feel stark.’
4. Take it up to the dado rail
When you think wall panelling ideas for hallways you might be imagining a full corridor of wooden panels, but that's far from your only option.
Take your panelling up as high as the dado rail so you get the best of both, a decorated and a plain wall – even though you could cover the top half either in wallpaper or a bold colour. Going half-height is especially useful in busy hallway ideas as the panelling will cope better than a painted wall with scuffs and everyday wear and tear.
'Any style of half-height panelling is a great addition to a hallway,' says Olivia Crosher, visual stylist at Naturewall. 'This size of panel prevents them becoming overwhelming as you enter a space, but they add enough detail and depth to create interest in the first room that welcomes you into a home.'
5. Panel walls and doors
Panelling doesn't have to stay on just the walls - take it onto your doors, too, to create a cohesive look when closed. Additionally, this technique will help make the space feel larger than it actually is, ideal for small hallways.
'Panelling creates a natural framework and point of interest and detail in a space,' says Rebecca Northmore, design manager at HUX London. 'The lines can help to draw the eye and elongate the proportions. This can be particularly effective in hallways, making them appear larger and drawing you into the space.'
6. Go for geometrics
Subvert panelling expectations and use the panels to create unique and cool patterns. You can even use these panel sections as zones in their own right.
For example, one could be the lighting zone - holding both a light and its switch. Other areas could be turned into hidden under stairs storage ideas. You're creating your own design so the possibilities are near endless.
7. Choose a traditional tongue and groove
'To create a more traditional, country home aesthetic, consider heritage wall panels such as tongue and groove or bread of butt styles. These designs will bring a classic charm to your space, creating a timeless finish,' Summa at Panels by Sofia says.
It's no surprise that tongue and groove panelling remains as popular as ever. It looks stylish and interesting, but also adds a slightly rustic and wholesome feel to a space.
Classic white hallway ideas works especially well with this, and can create a clean (but not boring!) backdrop for art and other wall decor.
8. Make a panel of wall panels
Why not turn your panels into wall art in their own right? Create a panel made of panels, place on the wall and you've created an easy and effective focal point.
This is also great if you're dipping your toe into the wall panelling ideas for hallways trend as you can leave it as is or see if you like the effect and want to cover the rest of the walls, too!
9. Colour drench for extra impact
Panels look great when painted in bold colours – they create interesting shadows which in turn create an extra layer of pattern. Go one step further and paint your panels, walls, architraves and ceilings for a cool and on-trend colour-drenched situation.
'Colour drenching, especially when using darker brave colours, works best in small spaces like hallways,' advises Justyna Korczynska, senior designer at Crown. 'Don’t just think about the walls - putting a new coat of paint on woodwork including stair risers and spindles really helps to freshen and brighten a hallway.'
If adding panels to an unusually shaped area of your hallway, like alongside your staircase ideas, then use the quirks to your advantage.
Place panels to frame the area, and replicate and turns and angles that the staircase wall creates.
10. Disguise storage
'Panelling not only has many aesthetic benefits where it gives a sense of character, it also has many practical advantages such as creating much needed storage that can be cleverly concealed within the frame of the panelling,' says Rebecca from HUX London.
'When planning the layout, why not factor in storage such as a hidden cupboard for shoes, bags and umbrellas, this will ensure a clutter free welcome.'
11. Create panelled patterns
If you're adding panels to an unusually shaped area of your hallway, like alongside your staircase, then use the quirks to your advantage.
Place panels to frame the area, and replicate any turns and angles that the staircase wall creates. You'll have unique patterns without needing even an inch of wallpaper.
FAQs
Does panelling make a hallway look bigger?
‘Wall panelling can make a hallway look bigger when used correctly,’ says Claire Garner, director of Claire Garner Design Studio. ‘Vertical panelling, such as fluted or tongue-and-groove styles, helps to draw the eye upward, creating the illusion of higher ceilings and a more expansive space. Additionally, light-coloured panelling reflects more light, making the hallway feel open and airy rather than enclosed.’
How do you stick wall panels to the wall?
The real question is – do you nail or do you glue? And Olivia Crosher, visual stylist at Naturewall, has the answer.
‘For wood slat panelling with a felt backing, it’s easy to hide nails in the gaps of the slats to ensure they don’t distract from the contemporary aesthetics. Whereas for MDF panelling with a painted finish, glueing is the best option as it keeps the profile looking smooth and seamless.’
How do you panel a hallway?
If you're wondering how to panel a wall there are many ways of getting this done. If you're a novice at home improvements, then it's best to consult with a professional.
However, if you're up to the challenge, you can certainly DIY your way to wall panelling ideas for hallways. The simplest form of panelling to opt for is good old tongue and groove.
'Start by measuring your space and choose panels that will fit within this, or even better, get your panels cut-to-size for a bespoke fit,' says Summa Costandi, co-founder of Panels by Sofia. 'If you’re using multiple panels, check that they sit alongside each other seamlessly before securing. Fix them to the wall using grab adhesive, adding nails for extra hold. If you’re using paintable panels, apply primer and paint in thin even coats for a professional finish.'
If you couldn’t tell already, we’re big fans of hallway wall panelling ideas. But have we convinced you to give wall panelling in your hallway a go?
