Ideas of how to update this wall?

Mro164
by Mro164
Just bought this home which was nicely remodeled by the previous owners, but this original paneled wall needs to be updated. I hate to just paint it, any ideas are welcomed! Maybe some kind of treatment on either side of the fireplace?
  12 answers
  • Vimarhonor Vimarhonor on Jun 07, 2018

    I would paint or whitewash the wood and build up/make the fireplace and mantle more impactful— or the star of the room. A statement piece of art over the mantle would be my other choice.

    • See 2 previous
    • Mro164 Mro164 on Jun 22, 2018

      Thanks so much! Just got completely moved in and I do like the MCM look. They did quite a lot of styling in that period and it’s nice. I’m just looking to brighten up this wall without losing the MCM styling.

      appreciate your comments!

  • Janice Janice on Jun 07, 2018

    Though I have trouble painting wood, it is what would make the most impact because it is almost too much wood in that room with the wood floor nearly the same color. I'd paint a light shade of grey and then place a large round clock above the fireplace to bring some curves into the room since the windows, etc. are all rectangular.

    • Mro164 Mro164 on Jun 07, 2018

      Thanks, I am feeling the same. Appreciate your thoughts!

  • Dysko7710 Dysko7710 on Jun 07, 2018

    If you don't want to paint, you could hang wide curtain panels over the two windows on either side. You don't have to make curtains match the size of the window. You could hang the rods a little higher and so that they reach out further from the window. You could use a color in a sheer panel so light still comes in but it would mask so much wood on that wall.

    • See 1 previous
    • Dysko7710 Dysko7710 on Jun 08, 2018

      You're welcome. I then agree with the others, I think paint is the way to go! Good luck!

  • Joy30150932 Joy30150932 on Jun 07, 2018

    You could change the color to a darker brown so that it would stand out more as a feature wall. You can either re-stain it or paint it out. You could also consider papering it with some kind of product but you will have to fill in the seams first.

  • Deborah Luchak Nester Deborah Luchak Nester on Jun 07, 2018

    Love shiplap !!

  • Rose Broadway Rose Broadway on Jun 07, 2018

    I would completely enclose the whole wall with book shelves around the windows and fireplace. Here are some ideas:

    https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=wall+of+book+shelves+fireplace

  • Deborah Luchak Nester Deborah Luchak Nester on Jun 07, 2018

    You could also go to a discount floor store .. measure how much wall space you have..and but some discounted wood flooring boxes (wood, laminate look wood, etc) and use adhesive to put it up.

  • Paulette Paulette on Jun 08, 2018

    There are so many wonderful options out there today that it really depends on the look that you're wanting to create for the room. Are you wanting a traditional look? Transitional? Rustic? I'd consult DYI sites for ideas, or look through various decorating magazines to get an idea of what you like. There are wonderful, creative painting techniques available now-a-days, as well as brick veneers, stains, and shiplap. Watch HGTV for ideas. Peruse the isles at Home Depot and Lowes for what products are readily available and at what cost. I do agree that the wall needs to be addressed. I too hate to paint beautiful wood. However, that particular wood looks dated and adds no aesthetic value to what could be a beautiful room. Personally, I don't think covering the wood with drapes will solve your problem. That wall needs to be your WOW factor and not look like your trying to cover up a previous "mistake". If you're still uncertain, I'd consult with an interior decorator. I've personally found it's better for me to pay their consulting fee than to spend countless hours, and money, trying to figure it out myself only to have to correct mistake after mistake, especially when I'm making high dollar decisions. Hope this helps.

    • Mro164 Mro164 on Jun 08, 2018

      Thanks! I totally agree with you and will keep looking for inspiration.

  • Vimarhonor Vimarhonor on Jun 22, 2018


    Im sooo happy you like the MCM. That holiday stay at a mcm themed Airbnb last year....It was a unique immersion experience the way it was styled down to the vintage stereo- turntable complete with the retro albums.


    Perhaps you can find a piece of art- sculpture or retro find to tie back to the rooms roots. I found a gorgeous teak tray from Denmark at Goodwill yeaterday. You never know what you might find at thrift stores consignment shops and estate sales....they are fabulous plases to find decorative treasures. My favorite way to decorate.

  • Vimarhonor Vimarhonor on Jun 22, 2018

    We have a modified log cabin thats been expanded. Too much wood can be dark and dreary. We are quite pleased the previous homeowner placed the routine thin grooved paneling in two bedrooms and painted it a light color.


    If you are not ready to consider painting your wood wall- painted paneling application could be a temporary measure, that could always be reversed. Just a thought to consider.


    Best wishes with your new home decorating.

  • Marilyn Robertson Marilyn Robertson on Jun 22, 2018

    This wood is knotty pine. I agree that it has outlived its usefulness except in rustic cabins. Because of its natural oils and finishing, I suggest that, unless you have experience painting such, you hire an experienced painter who can show you a finished job of painting knotty pine. Don’t rush accessorizing the wall. After painting, the entire room will feel different. That’s the time for the fun elements. And, yes, hiring a professional is often worth the money and the pleasure with the results. (Disclaimer-Marilyn Robertson Designs)

  • Mro164 Mro164 on Jun 22, 2018

    Agreed, thanks!