NEED TO KNOW

CAN YOU PANEL SMALL SPACES?

Studio Skey are fans of cladding desks, vanity units and even drawer fronts in timber panels with a slimmer, ribbed design to add detail to a pared-back scheme. They often paint the panels the same colour as the walls to prevent the ribbing from becoming too dominant. With traditional panelling, keep it lower and wider to improve the feel of a more compact space, or only panel halfway up the wall.

WHAT ABOUT MDF PANEL LING?

A durable, composite material, MDF (medium-density fibreboard) is cheaper than wood and easy to work with. The English Panelling Company’s Madeley says, ‘MDF panelling will react far less (if at all) to changes in temperature and humidity, which is important in an old building with less-than-dry walls or in a new build with fluctuating conditions.’ He advises choosing high quality, moisture-resistant MDF. ‘It is only slightly more expensive, but will result in a far-superior finish when painted. It also means it can be used in high humidity areas such as bathrooms, kitchens and conservatories.’ ➤