Does panelling add value to your home?

Yes, with high-quality installation and a cohesive room design, wall panelling can transform a space and increase your home’s appeal to buyers.

Homeowners are always looking for smart ways to improve their living spaces. Whether it’s because you want to live in a space that fills you with joy as soon as you open the right door, inspires or even tests your creativity, or you want your space to be more functional.

You might also decorate your home, as it adds to its commercial value when you eventually decide to sell.

So, why are panels a good way to do this?

The rise of wall panelling

Let’s clear something up first, before you begin to picture dark, dated wood panels from the 1970s. 

Modern panels are hugely versatile. Today’s options are also lighter and cleaner. Think MDF feature walls, vertical wood slats, 3D geometric panels, and even waterproof bathroom panels.

And the great thing is, we’re now in the era of design hybridity. While trends do still exist, the rise of social media has meant that design elements, like panels, can co-exist with almost any style. 

These designs work with almost any interior style. For example, if your home is modern and minimalistic, you might add black slat panelling to a wall to create a sleek yet impactful finish, or you might aim for a cosy, somewhat traditional design, using wide tongue-and-groove panels.

This flexibility is one of the reasons wall panels have become such a popular upgrade; they suit almost any interior style!

Equally, homes that feel thoughtfully designed often photograph better, attract more interest online, and leave a lasting impression during viewings.

In a competitive housing market, standing out is everything.

First impressions matter (a lot) 

If you’re looking around your home thinking, “Something feels a bit… flat,”, chances are potential buyers might also feel the same way. 

When someone walks into your home, they start forming opinions immediately. Not only are they considering the practical structures of the space (for instance, how many bedrooms are there? Are the rooms large enough? Can I fit my shed in the back garden?), but they are also influenced by the interior decoration.

In many cases, it takes just seconds for them to decide whether a space feels special or forgettable; that’s the power of design. It’s about creating a space that sells an aspirational lifestyle. 

That’s where panelling can help! A well-designed panelled feature wall adds depth, texture, and character that plain walls simply don’t offer. 

Of course, it’s hard to be completely objective when it’s your house - this can lead to either being too cynical or too forgiving. 

To get some real feedback on how your home is received, you could ask your estate agency and organise an official evaluation or simply ask a friend who you know has a good sense of style. 

Not a full renovation, but a structural lift

One of the biggest advantages of wall panels is how much impact they deliver for a relatively modest cost. While they’re usually considered cosmetic upgrades rather than structural ones, they can still dramatically change how a space is perceived.

Buyers often associate panelling with craftsmanship and quality. But even affordable materials can look luxurious when installed properly.

Vertical panels can make ceilings feel higher, while classic panelling styles add an architectural feel that makes rooms appear more expensive and refined.

In other words, wall panels can help your home feel premium, even if the budget wasn’t.

This is great for homeowners who are either on a budget or don’t want the stress of time-intensive renovations. 

Practical benefits that interest buyers

It’s not just about the look! 

Panels come with a myriad of practical benefits, too, that buyers can appreciate. Depending on the panel, they can: 

• Add extra insulation to your rooms
• Help spaces feel warmer and quieter, especially useful in bedrooms or offices
• Protect walls from everyday wear and tear, which is a big plus in hallways and staircases

A house that feels solid, well-maintained, and easy to live in is always more appealing to buyers, who often don’t want the pressure of renovating. 

So, how much value do they add?

This is where expectations matter. 

It’s difficult to quantify from property values how much wall panels add in value, as a new bathroom or extension might. This is because they’re more subtle in nature and their impact often depends on how the rest of the room or home is decorated. 

However, value isn’t just about numbers on a valuation report; it’s also about buyer perception.

Cosmetic upgrades like wall panelling can help a home sell faster and closer to (or above) asking price. They make spaces feel finished, modern, and move-in ready, which reduces hesitation from buyers. When people emotionally connect with a home, they’re often willing to pay more for it.

In that sense, wall panels can absolutely contribute to better resale outcomes.

However, there is a big caveat!

Not all panelling choices are created equal. Poor-quality materials, sloppy installation, or overly bold designs can hurt a home’s appeal rather than help it.

For example, overly dark panels can make small rooms feel cramped, while ultra-trendy designs may date quickly. The key is choosing an installation that works with your space and fits the overall aesthetic of your home.

If you want some tips on how to style your panels, take a look at our article below.