When it comes to decorating a small living room, wainscoting can be a great way to add both style and functionality. Wainscoting is a type of decorative paneling that is typically installed on the lower half of walls, adding a touch of elegance and charm to any space. If you're looking to incorporate wainscoting into your small living room, here are 10 ideas to inspire you.Wainscoting Ideas for Small Living Room
Wainscoting Ideas for Small Living Room
There are many wainscoting designs to choose from, but for a small living room, it's best to stick with a simple and clean design. Opt for a classic raised panel design, which features rectangular panels that are raised from the wall, adding depth and texture to the space. You can also consider a shaker-style wainscoting design, which features flat panels and clean lines for a more modern look.Wainscoting Designs for Small Living Room
Wainscoting Designs for Small Living Room
When it comes to wainscoting styles, there are several options to choose from. If you want to keep things traditional, opt for a classic wainscoting style with white panels and a chair rail. For a more modern look, consider a sleek and minimalistic wainscoting style with dark panels and no chair rail. You can also mix and match styles, such as combining a raised panel design with a shaker-style design for a unique look.Wainscoting Styles for Small Living Room
Wainscoting Styles for Small Living Room
The type of wainscoting panels you choose can make a big difference in the overall look and feel of your small living room. Wooden panels are the most common choice, but for a more budget-friendly option, consider using MDF (medium-density fibreboard) panels. You can also opt for faux wainscoting panels made of PVC or foam, which are lightweight and easy to install.Wainscoting Panels for Small Living Room
Wainscoting Panels for Small Living Room
When it comes to choosing the color of your wainscoting, it's best to stick with a light or neutral color for a small living room. White is a popular choice as it can make the room feel brighter and more spacious. You can also consider a light grey or beige color for a more subtle look. If you want to add a pop of color, consider painting the wainscoting panels a different color than the walls for a unique and eye-catching look.Wainscoting Colors for Small Living Room
Wainscoting Colors for Small Living Room
The height of your wainscoting can also make a big impact on the overall look of your small living room. For a traditional look, opt for wainscoting that covers the lower third of the wall. This is typically around 32 inches from the floor. For a more modern look, you can go higher and cover up to two-thirds of the wall, or even install wainscoting all the way up to the ceiling for a dramatic effect.Wainscoting Height for Small Living Room
Wainscoting Height for Small Living Room
Installing wainscoting in a small living room can seem like a daunting task, but it's actually a relatively easy DIY project. You can purchase pre-made wainscoting panels from home improvement stores and install them yourself with some basic tools. However, if you're not confident in your DIY skills, it's best to hire a professional to ensure a flawless installation.Wainscoting Installation for Small Living Room
Wainscoting Installation for Small Living Room
As mentioned before, wooden panels are the most common choice for wainscoting, but there are other materials you can consider as well. If you want a more budget-friendly option, MDF panels are a great choice. For a more luxurious look, you can opt for real wood panels, such as oak or cherry. PVC or foam wainscoting panels are also a lightweight and affordable option.Wainscoting Materials for Small Living Room
Wainscoting Materials for Small Living Room
The cost of wainscoting for a small living room will depend on the materials you choose, the height of the wainscoting, and whether you hire a professional or not. On average, the cost can range from $5 to $15 per square foot, including materials and labor. If you're on a budget, consider installing wainscoting in only one or two walls as an accent, rather than covering the entire room.Wainscoting Cost for Small Living Room
Wainscoting Cost for Small Living Room
If you're feeling handy, you can save some money by installing wainscoting in your small living room yourself. Start by measuring the walls and determining the height and design of your wainscoting. Purchase the necessary materials and tools, and follow step-by-step instructions for installation. Remember to take your time and be precise to ensure a professional-looking result.Wainscoting DIY for Small Living Room
Wainscoting DIY for Small Living Room
Enhance the Illusion of Height with Vertical Wainscoting
When it comes to designing a small living room, every inch counts. One clever way to create the illusion of height and make your space feel larger is by incorporating vertical wainscoting. This traditional wall treatment involves installing wooden panels or boards along the bottom half of your walls, with a contrasting color or material on the upper half. Not only does it add visual interest and texture to your living room, but it also draws the eye upwards, making the room feel taller and more spacious.
Choose Sleek and Simple Wainscoting Designs
In a small living room, it's important to keep the design elements clean and minimal to avoid overwhelming the space. This is especially true when it comes to wainscoting. Opt for sleek and simple designs, such as flat or beadboard panels, to add subtle charm without taking up too much visual space. Avoid elaborate or ornate wainscoting designs as they can make a small living room feel cluttered and busy.
Use Light Colors to Brighten Up the Room
When it comes to color choices for your wainscoting, stick to light and neutral shades. Light colors reflect more light, making the room feel brighter and more open. This is especially important in small living rooms where natural light may be limited. Avoid using dark colors for your wainscoting as they can make the room feel cramped and gloomy.
Consider Adding a Chair Rail for Function and Style
A chair rail is a horizontal strip of molding installed on the wall, typically at the same height as the top of your wainscoting. While it may seem like a small detail, a chair rail can add a touch of elegance and refinement to your living room while also serving a practical purpose. It can protect your walls from scuffs and scratches caused by furniture, making it a great addition to high-traffic areas. Choose a chair rail that complements your wainscoting design to tie the look together.
Incorporate Wainscoting as a Room Divider
Wainscoting doesn't have to be limited to just walls. In a small living room, it can also be used as a clever way to divide the space. Installing wainscoting along one wall or between two sections of the room can create the illusion of separate areas, making the room appear larger. Additionally, it can also add architectural interest and dimension to the space.
Incorporating wainscoting into your small living room design is an excellent way to add charm, character, and visual interest to the space. Whether you opt for vertical or horizontal panels, sleek or intricate designs, light or dark colors, this traditional wall treatment is sure to elevate the style of your living room while also making it feel more spacious. So why not give it a try and see the difference it can make in your small living room?
