The kitchen is the heart of your house. Here I’m discussing the Kitchen Wall Panel. It is a place for cooking, socializing, or eating. Renovating the kitchen from time to time can make your cooking space look good.
Paint or wallpaper is not the only way to transform your walls. Wall paneling is the most affordable way to add character and texture to the space. It can make your cooking space look cozy and hide imperfections present on the wall.
Wall panels are even more durable and can be easily maintained. For example, if you have wood or PVC panels, then you can clean them with a damp cloth or any household cleaner.
The paneling even helps to absorb the noise. So, if you live in an apartment where noise can easily travel, this wall paneling can help absorb the noise.
In short, kitchen wall panels have various benefits. You can avail yourself of these benefits by installing them inside your cooking space.
The article discusses a few kitchen wall panel ideas that can help elevate your kitchen and transform the culinary space into a visually stunning look. So you can keep on reading this article to explore these ideas.
Different Types Of Wall Panelling
Most homeowners think that kitchen wall paneling is limited to aesthetics. But in reality, it is not the case. Kitchen wall panels can protect the walls from moisture and stains.
Additionally, there are many designs and materials available. You have to choose according to your kitchen theme and personal style. I have listed a few kitchen wall panel materials to help make your cooking space look ultra-modern.
1. Natural Wood Panels
Natural wood panels are one of the most popular forms of wall paneling, as they add a touch of warmth and elegance to the space. You can sand or polish them to look original. But remember that wood paneling is prone to termites and cannot resist moisture.
Natural wood panels are even expensive, and not everyone can afford them. In such cases, you can have wall panels made from plywood with veneer or laminate at the top. They will look like natural wood.
2. Natural Stone
Natural stone wall panels are a great choice for kitchens. They will, in fact, give the kitchen a luxurious touch. They are available in various colors and designs. However, they are a bit difficult to install and quite expensive.
3. Glass Wall panels
Glass wall panels are the next attractive option. They will add a sophisticated touch to the cooking space. These panels can make your small kitchen look spacious and brighter.
You can even maintain them with less effort. However, glass wall panels are fragile and can break. You can even see water spots clearly in these types of panels.
4. Composite Materials
Composite materials are the next choice that homeowners can use as wall panels in the cooking space. They consist of various materials like resin and wood fibers.
Composite materials are simple to clean and maintain, and you can find them in various colors and styles. However, they have one disadvantage: They are susceptible to scratches and dents.
5. Rustic Reclaimed Wood
Reclaimed wood panels can be used inside your kitchen to add a rustic touch. For example, you can salvage wood from factories and place it behind the open shelves of your cooking space to create a cozy atmosphere.
6. Textured 3D Wall Panels
3D wall panels inside your kitchen can add both drama and character. You can have 3D wall panels made of bamboo, gypsum, or PVC. Use them as a striking backsplash, or add 3D panels to the entire wall to make it a focal point in the cooking space.
7. Subway Tiles
Most house owners choose to have subway tiles. You can use them as a backsplash or on the entire cooking space wall. The clean and fresh subway tiles can add freshness and versatility to the kitchen.
The top thing about subway tiles is that they are available in various colors and designs. So choose according to your preferences. The most popular one is white.
White color subway tiles can add a touch of personality to the space.
8. Mirrored Wall panels
Mirrored wall panels can create the illusion of bigger space inside the cooking space. Mirrors make the kitchen look spacious and brighter.
Additionally, they reflect light and create an inviting atmosphere inside the cooking space.
Install mirrored wall panels on the walls to create an overwhelming space. Pair them with wood or tiles to achieve a balanced look.
9. Stainless Steel Panels
If you want an ultramodern and industrial vibe inside the culinary space, you can install stainless steel panels. They are durable and simple to clean. You can pair these panels with various color schemes and materials to make them look great.
10. Ceramic Wall Tiles
Ceramic wall tiles come in various designs. The intricate patterns can help elevate the look of your kitchen. You can use them as a kitchen backsplash to create a focal point inside your kitchen. Alternatively, use them as a feature wall behind the shelves to showcase the style.
11. Cork panels
Cork panels can add a unique touch to the cooking space and have excellent sound absorption capability. So, if the external sound is disturbing you in your apartment, consider cork panels in the kitchen.
You can use warm tones of cork panels to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
12. Shaker panels
Shaker panels can add a modern touch to your kitchen. Opt for natural wood tones and minimal design to create a visually appealing atmosphere.
These panels are perfect for traditional and contemporary kitchens.
13. Beadboard Wall panels
Beadboard wall panels are timeless. They are available in various forms, like wainscoting, total wall panels, or tongue and groove planks. You can use them behind the kitchen shelves to have an architectural look.
Another great thing about using these panels is that you can paint them with a color that matches the color scheme of your kitchen.
It enhances the kitchen’s overall charm. Beadboard panels are simple to clean and maintain. They can hide stains or imperfections present on the wall.
You can even use beadboard paneling as a backsplash. Top the beadboard with a peg rail or shelf to add a lovely touch to the kitchen.
14. Slatted Wood On Ceiling
Most house owners forget about the kitchen ceiling during renovation. But the ceiling can even create drama in the cooking space.
There are numerous ways to design your ceiling, such as painting. However, one excellent option is to have slatted wood panels. The narrow wooden strips can give a warm look to the cooking space.
15. Use Two Types Of Panels Along With Wallpaper
You can use two types of wall panels to make your kitchen look modern. For example, you can frame the wallpaper with raised panels.
You can also use wainscotting on the lower portion of the wall. The two panels can together create a chic and inviting atmosphere in your kitchen.
16. PVC Panels
PVC panels are another great option for a cooking space. They are simple to clean, waterproof, and resistant to mold and mildew. However, they are not as durable as other options. You can get them in various designs, colors, and finishes.
17. Metal Wall Panels
Metal wall panels can give a sleek and modern look to the culinary space. They are durable and can resist heat and moisture. But they are a bit expensive. You can even observe waterspots easily on these panels.
18. Synthetics
Most homeowners choose synthetic wall panels as their next choice. They are affordable, durable, and resistant to heat and moisture. However, they can easily have scratches or dents.
Benefits Of Using Kitchen Wall Panels
There are various benefits of using kitchen wall panels. I am listing them below.
1. Aesthetic Appeal
Wall panels can help to transform the look of your kitchen. They can make your kitchen look lavish.
2. Hide Flaws
Wall panels are limited to decoration purposes. They can hide flaws or imperfections in the wall. For example, if you have a bunch of electric wires, wall panels can easily hide them.
Use wall panels like PVC in areas usually exposed to moisture and bear everyday wear and tear. Wall panels are a great way
3. Easily Installation
You can easily install the wall panels in your cooking space. Of course, you will need the help of professionals. However, the tongue-and-groove system can make the installation process without any difficulty.
4. Durability
Wall panels are highly durable, i.e., they last for a more extended period. Most of the materials available in the market are highly resistant to fire, moisture, and scratches.
How To Choose The Right Kitchen Wall Panels?
You must consider various factors before purchasing kitchen wall panels. I have listed some of them below.
1. Moisture Resistance
Remember, the kitchen is constantly exposed to moisture. So, if you are deciding to have wall panels in your cooking space, consider moisture-resistant materials like PVC or glass.
2. Durability
Kitchen walls are usually susceptible to splashes and look dirty. You can choose materials that are simple to clean and durable, like glass or PVC.
3. Consider The Style Of Your Kitchen
You need to consider the style of your kitchen while choosing the wall panels. For example, if you have a modern kitchen, you can use glass panels. But if you have a rustic kitchen decor, you can use stone or natural wood panels.
4. Consider Color Scheme
When selecting the kitchen wall panels, you must consider the color scheme of the kitchen cabinets, countertops, and island.
5. Consider Your Budget
You need to consider your budget while buying kitchen wall panels. Different wall panels are available in various price ranges. If you want a budget-friendly option, consider laminate wall panels. But if you have a reasonable budget, consider natural wood panels or stone.
6. Installation Process
Consider the installation process when buying. Some materials are quite simple to install, but a few may be difficult to install on the walls.
DIY Kitchen Wall Panel Ideas
1. Paintable Beadboard Panelling
You can paint the beadboard panels according to your kitchen’s color scheme. It will add a pop of color to your kitchen space.
2. Stenciled Wall panels
You can use stencil designs to create unique patterns or geometric designs on the wall panels. This will give them a personalized touch.
3. Reclaimed Wood panels
Reclaimed wood panels will add a rustic touch to the culinary space. To keep their original look, you can sand or smooth them.
4. Chalkboard Panels
You can dedicate a particular portion of the kitchen wall with chalkboard panels. Writing some exciting and inspiring quotes or grocery items will be pretty fun.
5. Lightning Effect
Adding LED strips behind the wall panels creates a luxurious kitchen.
What Are the Creative Ways To Use Kitchen Wall Panels?
Below, we list some creative ways to use kitchen wall panels.
1. Create An Accent Wall
You can use various-colored panels to create an accent wall in your cooking space. This will definitely create a striking look.
2. Use Panels As Kitchen Backsplash
You can use wall panels on kitchen backsplash to create a focal point in the space.
3. Install Wall panels On the Ceiling
The ceiling is usually overlooked while renovating a kitchen. However, you can install wooden wall panels on your ceiling to give it a tremendous look.
Common Mistakes To Avoid When Choosing Kitchen Wall Panels
- You need to prioritize the design or color scheme of the cooking space. If you choose wall panels without considering the design or color scheme of your kitchen, it will not look good.
- Panels are exposed to water or food spills. You need to always choose wall panels that are simple to clean, like glass panels. But if you choose panels that are quite difficult to clean, they will not look good after some months. Expansive wall panels with a lot of scratches or food spills will never look visually appealing.
- Try to prioritize the installation procedure. Remember that poor installation of wall panels can damage the materials and walls.
- If you do not seal the panels properly, then it can lead to damage within a few months.
How To Properly Install Kitchen Wall Panels?
You need various things to install the kitchen wall panels with adhesive. I am listing them below.
- Wall panels
- Adhesive
- Tape for measurement
- Pencil cloth
I am listing below now the procedure for adequately installing kitchen wall panels.
1. Prepare The Walls
Your first duty is to prepare the walls. Remove any electrical outlets or nails from the wall. If you observe wall surface imperfections, use a putty knife to scrape them off. You can also remove various dirt or debris with a damp cloth or knife.
2. Measure And Cut Panels Accurately
Your next duty is to measure the area where you are going to install panels. You can then mark the position with a pencil. This will keep your panels straight during the installation procedure.
You can then lay the panels flat on the floor and determine their centerline. This helps to avoid design and patterning problems. You have to then arrange the panels according to how they will look after the installation procedure.
3. Spread The Adhesive
Now, it’s time to spread the adhesive. You can spray the adhesive in a zigzag pattern on the marked walls. Then, you can spread it on the back of the wall panels.
Spread it evenly with a putty knife. Do not apply too much glue on the walls or the back of the panels; otherwise, it will create problems later.
4. Install The panels
Now, it’s time for panel installation. You need to use a leveler tool or a straight edge during panel installation, particularly when you are using large areas of the wall.
Press each panel for at least 30 seconds on the wall. This helps ensure that the panel is firmly placed on the wall. Leave the panels overnight. Remove excess adhesive with a damp cloth.
How To Use Kitchen Wall Panels For Smaller Spaces?
- You can opt for light-colored wall panels. They will reflect light and make the kitchen lighted and airy.
- You can opt for vertical paneling, i.e., from floor to ceiling. It will help draw the eye upwards and make the kitchen walls appear taller.
- Open shelves with back panels in your kitchen will make it more open and functional. You can utilize the open shelves for storage purposes.
- If your kitchen is small, consider having mirror wall panels. They will create the illusion of ample space.
- You can install thin LED strips behind the wall panels to give it a soft glow.
Kitchen Wall Panel Maintenance And Care
Kitchen wall panels require regular maintenance and care so that they will stay functional and look stunning for many more years. We have listed a few maintenance tips below.
- You need to wipe your panels every week.
- Take lukewarm water and add some mild detergent to it. You can clean the wall panels with it.Never use abrasives or strong chemicals for cleaning the wall panels.
- If you have stainless steel wall panels, use vinegar and water to remove fingerprints.
- Strictly avoid harsh chemicals or excess water while cleaning wooden panels.
- If you have glass wall panels, you can clean them with glass cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and water.
- If you observe that the wall panels are excessively damaged, then you must replace them.
Conclusion
Wall panels can create a gorgeous look in the cooking space and even help to protect the walls. I have listed various kitchen wall panel ideas for 2024 and hope the information is useful.
