Originally used as a way of keeping buildings warm, and often covering a multitude of damp patches, panelling has fallen in and out of fashion over the centuries. But wood-panelled walls are no longer limited to gloomy manor houses, dusty libraries or school assembly halls.

Think less stuffy formality and more about using period authenticity to bring warmth and detail to a room. Panelling is a fantastic way to experiment with colour and texture in unexpected ways, adding instant personality and style. Flick through any home accessories brochure that drops onto your doormat and you’ll probably see lots of beautifully styled images photographed against panelled backdrops, ranging from traditional to more modern rustic styles.

Transforming your home with panelling is a lot more achievable than you might think. The variety of styles and finishes means that it works in almost any interior scheme, whether you live in a period property or a more modern or new-build home, which may lack interesting architectural features. As well as looking beautiful, panelling can improve the acoustic quality of a room and provide a perfect backdrop for hanging art. An alternative to tiles in kitchens and bathrooms, it can hide a multitude of pipework, even the toilet cistern, and is an ideal way of boxing in ugly services, such as plumbing and electrics.

When considering panelling, think about the proportions of your room. Don’t automatically assume that panelling will make a room feel smaller. It can play to a smaller room’s strengths, adding a quaint, cottagey feel. In smaller spaces, panelling just the lower half of the walls will help it feel less cramped.

Try to use a design that at least nods to the original style of the architectural period of your home. Period-look panelling from floor to ceiling is a fast track to an elegant, country house look. Whereas a simple Shaker style would give a classic look with cleaner lines. Similarly, tongue-and-groove boards create a look that works in both traditional and contemporary spaces.

Using a painted finish gives you a lot more freedom, as you can transform the look dramatically with colour. Using a soft, light scheme across walls and panelling will create a calm, soothing ambience, perfect for rooms with lots of natural light. Alternatively, classic wooden panelling painted in dark, dramatic tones will bring stunning contemporary style to any room.

More contemporary spaces can sometimes suffer from looking a bit blank and bland, but a wall of panelling instantly adds character.  Sleek contemporary panelling will add warmth and an upmarket feel, whilst rustic boards can create a boutique country retreat feel. If you are thinking about an industrial or Scandinavian feel, simple planks laid horizontally combined with light walls and plenty of glazing keeps things looking clean and airy. The modern rustic look is less about perfection and more about authenticity, hinting at the traditional log cabin and connecting your home to nature. Of course, you are probably not aiming to turn your home into a sauna, so as in all things, it is essential to get the balance right.