They say that everything old becomes new again, and that’s definitely true when it comes to interior decorating. One feature currently making a comeback is wooden panelled backsplashes in the kitchen. These can often be found in older homes, but were not quite so popular in more modern properties until recently.
Instead, the tiled backsplash rose to popularity in homes up and down the country. However, now many people are now reportedly switching to the more traditional wooden panelling, which gives the kitchen more of a ‘lived-in’ feeling. Alongside this, wooden panelling is fast becoming a way to add a variety of textures and interest to our homes.
Explaining this shift in popularity, interior designer Christopher Boutlier told Homes and Gardens: “A panelled backsplash has this quiet elegance to it; it’s unfussy but still feels intentional and tailored.
“That’s part of its appeal. It reads as more architectural than decorative, which is probably why it’s having a moment right now. So many clients are gravitating toward kitchens that feel timeless, not trendy.
“Panelling fits right into that. It has roots in historic millwork and joinery, so even when it’s used in a modern space, it carries that sense of permanence and tradition.”
Wooden panelling is perfect for any home aesthetic, whether you want a minimalist appearance with some white wood or a more vintage-looking kitchen.
Match the wood with the colour of your cabinets for a consistent look throughout the kitchen, and decorate further with whatever happens to fit your taste.
When adding wooden panelling to your kitchen, just be sure it is properly installed and allows for some ventilation. If not installed correctly, then moisture can cause the material to warp, meaning you won’t have quite to desired look for your kitchen after all.
Also writing in Homes and Gardens, Molly Malsom wrote: “I’ve been noticing an unexpected feature in a lot of kitchens right now – a paneled backsplash. Where tile or stone have always been the prominent material of choice, wood is taking its place.”
Wood gives kitchens a timeless and classic look and is being utilised more and more by designers for that reason, perhaps influenced in particular by Scandinavian and mid-century looks. While wood splashbacks have been less common than tiles, marble, glass or stainless steel, wood does offer an interesting alternative.
However, you need to bear in mind the risks. Firstly, wood is flammable so you need to make sure there’s sufficient distance between it and an open flame. The other question is its durability. The regular exposure to heat, moisture and food may mean it doesn’t stand the test of time like a more durable material would.