We have often touted the use of paneling to add texture and visual interest to a variety of rooms, both traditional and modern. (See Expert Advice: The Enduring Appeal of Shiplap and Remodeling 101: The Ultimate Wood Paneling Guide with Jersey Ice Cream Co.) Lately we’ve also noticed a preponderance of paneling or cladding employed to create a greater sense of height in a room. Here are some of our favorite applications of paneling used to make a ceiling look taller.
Vertical Paneling on the Walls
![in this simple cottage bedroom, craftsman edward collinson employed tgv or v gr 17](https://media.remodelista.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/edward-collinson-cabin-bedroom-733x488.jpg)
Shiplap or other vertical paneling is an easy way to emphasize the height of a room, while still keeping a space clean and uncluttered. If you don’t have the budget for all four walls, create an accent wall by paneling the facade with the greatest height.
![Expert Advice How to Use Wood Paneling to Add Loftiness to a Room portrait 7](https://media.remodelista.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Jersey-Ice-Cream-Co.-Old-Chatham-House-Remodelista-Family-room-733x1100.jpg)
Accent Wall with Horizontal Cladding
![Expert Advice How to Use Wood Paneling to Add Loftiness to a Room portrait 7](https://media.remodelista.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/fawn-galli-cornwall-connecticut-40-733x1100.jpg)
As seen in the example above, even horizontal paneling, when installed on the tallest wall, can serve to create a dynamic element which emphasizes the height of the space.
Paneled Ceiling
![at the estate trentham interiors stylist lyn gardener of gardener &&#x 20](https://media.remodelista.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/estate-trentham-remodelista-16-733x485.png)
The dynamic texture of paneling need not be limited to the walls. Cladding on ceiling also draws the eye up and creates a sense of dynamism which enlivens a small, or low-ceilinged space.
![lisa przystup added unpainted beadboard to the ceiling in her catskills farmhou 21](https://media.remodelista.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/lisa-przystup-rip-tan-april-valencia-dining-nook-733x1100.jpg)
![at greydon house on nantucket, paneling along the wall, as well as be 22](https://media.remodelista.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/greydon-house-broad-suite-desk-733x1026.jpg)
![Expert Advice How to Use Wood Paneling to Add Loftiness to a Room portrait 7](https://media.remodelista.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/kitchen-with-black-and-white-space-exploration-733x1103-733x1103.jpg)
Creative Beadboard
![at the anvil hotel designers from studio tack used two toned, be 24](https://media.remodelista.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/anvil-hotel-guest-bathroom-01-733x1067-1-733x1067.jpg)
Typically more narrow than other kinds of paneling, versatile beadboard works in a multitude of spaces, from entire ceilings to small nooks. We especially enjoy beadboard when employed in unexpected ways to create height in cozy rooms.
![Expert Advice How to Use Wood Paneling to Add Loftiness to a Room portrait 7](https://media.remodelista.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/fields/Catskills-Farmhouse-mudroom-by-Jersey-Ice-Cream-Co-Remodelista-1-733x1099.jpg)
Formal Wall Paneling
![in this bedford, ny, home, a millwork wall, painted farrow & ball’s& 26](https://media.remodelista.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/modern-farmhouse-renovation-with-warm-gray-millwork-walls-fireplace-733x493.jpg)
![another example at the anvil hotel in wyoming, paneling applied two thirds the 27](https://media.remodelista.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/anvil-hotel-restaurant-glorietta-733x1099.jpg)
Even more creative ways to use paneling:
- Wood Paneled Baths, 6 Favorites
- A “Modern Victorian” Loft in London by Mark Lewis
- The New Road Residence: A Curated London House from Hostem
Frequently asked questions
What is paneling?
Paneling is a wall covering made of narrow, horizontal or vertical planks or boards called panels.
How can paneling make a ceiling look taller?
Paneling can make a ceiling look taller by drawing the eye upward and creating the illusion of height.
What types of paneling are recommended for making a ceiling look taller?
Vertical paneling is recommended because it creates the illusion of height by drawing the eye upward. Tongue-and-groove paneling is also a good option because it creates a seamless look.
What is the best color for paneling to make a ceiling look taller?
A light color, such as white or a pale gray, is recommended because it reflects light and creates an airy, open feel.
What height should paneling be installed at to make a ceiling look taller?
Paneling should be installed at least 3/4 of the way up the wall to create the illusion of height.
Can paneling be installed on a popcorn ceiling?
It is not recommended to install paneling on a popcorn ceiling because the texture will show through and create an uneven look. The popcorn texture will need to be removed before installing paneling.
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