Shiplap walls have enjoyed years of popularity in the interior design world, but modern trends are leading homeowners and professionals to explore fresh alternatives. If you’re looking to update your walls with a look that’s as stunning as it is practical, the trending wall designs we’ll explore today offer exciting, contemporary options. This guide will dive deep into several alternatives, helping you make informed decisions on which one is best suited for your home or commercial space.

Why Replace Shiplap?

Shiplap, with its horizontal wooden boards and rustic charm, has been a favorite for many. However, for those looking for something new and distinctive, shiplap’s limitations in modern, minimalist, or luxury designs become evident. Today’s trending wall designs offer a variety of textures, colors, and functionalities that cater to both aesthetic appeal and practical benefits such as sound absorption, insulation, and easy installation.

Trending Wall Designs to Elevate Your Space

1. Wood Panel Walls: A Timeless Classic

Wood paneling is currently one of the most versatile and stylish alternatives to shiplap. Whether you are looking for a rustic touch or a sleek modern aesthetic, wood panel walls come in various textures, colors, and finishes that fit any style.

Why Choose Wood Paneling?

• Offers elegance and warmth to interiors, whether for residential or commercial spaces.
• Wide variety of materials available, including real oak, MDF wood veneer, and even wood-plastic composites (WPC) designed for outdoor use.
• The acoustic properties of wood panels enhance the sound quality in a room, making it an excellent choice for home theaters, offices, and restaurants.

Wood paneling is easy to install and maintain, making it a fantastic long-term investment. Whether you’re considering natural oak wood panels or something more synthetic like MDF, these panels bring a touch of sophistication while offering practical benefits like sound absorption and easy maintenance​.

Example of Wood Paneling Applications:

• Accent walls in living rooms or bedrooms to create a focal point.
• Ceiling installations to add a natural or textured look to your interiors.
• Outdoor siding to elevate exterior spaces with a natural timber appearance​.

2. Vertical Slat Walls: The New Minimalist Favorite

While shiplap’s horizontal design has reigned supreme, vertical slat walls are emerging as a minimalist’s dream. These walls are composed of slender vertical strips, typically made of wood, that create a sleek, clean appearance.

Why Vertical Slat Walls are Trending:

• The vertical lines create the illusion of taller ceilings and a more open space.
• Sound absorption and acoustic enhancement make this option ideal for noisy spaces.
• Available in different wood types and finishes, slat walls can be customized to complement any modern or traditional interior.

The beauty of vertical slats is in their versatility. Use them as an accent wall in a living room or dining space, or create a stunning entrance area that impresses visitors from the moment they step inside.

3. Geometric Wall Panels: Artistic and Functional

If you’re looking for a bold, contemporary alternative to shiplap, geometric wall panels may be the perfect solution. These panels feature shapes like hexagons, triangles, or diamonds that add a dynamic texture to your walls.

Benefits of Geometric Wall Panels:

• Creates a visually striking feature in any room.
• Available in a variety of materials, including wood, MDF, and composites.
• Many geometric panels also offer acoustic dampening, making them as functional as they are beautiful.

For a high-impact design, consider geometric wall panels in a living room or master bedroom. These panels can be painted in various colors to match or contrast with the existing décor, giving your space a modern, unique feel.

4. Textured Wall Panels: Add Depth to Your Interiors

Textured wall panels are another popular choice for those looking to replace shiplap. These panels bring in an element of depth and tactile intrigue, offering a range of finishes from rough-hewn wood to smoother, wave-like designs.

Reasons to Love Textured Panels:

• They can be made from eco-friendly materials, such as reclaimed wood or bamboo.
• Customization is endless—choose from different textures, materials, and colors.
• Like other trending wall designs, textured panels also enhance sound absorption and help create a cozy, comfortable space.

Textured panels are ideal for large open spaces like lobbies, waiting rooms, or even master bedrooms where you want to introduce a layer of interest without overwhelming the room with too much color or decor.

5. Peel-and-Stick Wall Panels: Easy, Affordable, and Stylish

For DIY enthusiasts, peel-and-stick wall panels offer an easy and budget-friendly way to transform a room. These panels often come in wood or wood-look finishes and can be installed without professional assistance, making them perfect for renters or homeowners who want a quick update.

Key Features of Peel-and-Stick Panels:

• Quick and easy installation—no tools or adhesives required.
• Available in a variety of styles and finishes, from rustic reclaimed wood to sleek, modern panels.
• Can be used for temporary updates, especially if you’re not ready for a long-term commitment.

These panels are ideal for accent walls, and because they are so simple to install, they’re perfect for anyone looking for a weekend project with instant results.

FAQs: About Trending Wall Designs

Conclusion

Whether you’re renovating a single room or an entire building, replacing shiplap with one of today’s trending wall designs can transform your space. From the classic warmth of wood panel walls to the modern elegance of geometric patterns, these designs are as functional as they are beautiful. Explore your options, and don’t be afraid to take risks with your interior decor—you’ll be amazed at the results.