WALLS AND WINDOW TREATMENTS 3(1+2)

Lesson 6 : Interior Wall Covering

Wall Paneling

As a decor element, wall panels are an excellent way to break up wall space. This can be achieved by paneling the upper or lower half of the wall, installing wainscoting, creating a faux finish, or one of several other methods. Wood Paneling was developed in antiquity to make the rooms in stone buildings more comfortable. Panels served to insulate the room from the cold stone. Paneling such as wainscoting or Boiserie may be extremely ornate and is particularly associated with 17-18 century.

• Wainscot is a paneling style applied to the lower part of the interior wall below the dado rail or chair rail and above the baseboard and skirting board. It is traditionally constructed from tongue and groove bards. The original purpose was to cover the lower part of the walls, in houses constructed with poor or non existent damp proof course, and is often affected by rising dampness. Its purpose is now decorative.
• Boiserie is used to define ornate and intricately carved wood paneling. Early examples were unpainted but later painted and gilded. The panels are confined not just to walls of the room but also used to decorate doors, frames, cupboards and shelves.

Benefits and Constraints of wood Paneling: There are many reasons that wood paneling is an excellent decorating option for the modern home.

• Wood paneling is an integral part of interior design as well as a traditional method of beautifying the walls
• The look of wood paneling is unmatched by any other material. Wood paneling fits very well into this design pattern.
• By installing wood paneling on one or more walls or sections of the wall, one can add warmth and depth to the room.
• Use wood paneling as a backdrop for artwork or use smaller wood panels as the artwork on standard white walls. Either of these two wood paneling techniques can add a touch of natural beauty to the room.
• Currently, there are many different finishes, grains, and textures which can enhance the look of wood paneling. There are also wood panels that have unique and intriguing carvings.
• Wood paneling can be used to create depth, richness, and add a customized look to a room. Another benefit to implementing wood paneling is the ease of installation.

The most typical constraints associated with wood panels are wood panels are not perfect for every type of interior, especially where wall becomes damp due to moisture seepage. In such cases the panels can bow and curve may be due to excess pressure on the frame. This can further give rise to water marks and discolorations on panels. In severe case, it could result in fungal infestations in the wood which can lead to timber rot damage.