
Where and How to Use Wainscoting
By: Monika
Wainscoting can transform a boring space into a work of art or lift a perfectly inviting space up a notch in aesthetic appeal. Wainscoting is flexible too, as you can apply with raised panels, recessed flat panels and bead board combined with various types of rail and molding. That way, you have a greater choice of style and decorating options.
Most decorators agree that when applied correctly, wainscoting should run from the baseboard to the chair rail and it should not be any higher than 32 inches. These are guidelines, not rules, as you’re free to integrate this architectural touch anywhere or anyway you see fit.
Home Wainscoting ideas
Foyer or Stairwell
People don’t often think of their stairwell or foyer as a room, but they have names for a reason. The foyer is your home’s entry way and, if it includes a stairwell, wainscoting provides a golden opportunity to welcome guests with an added touch of elegance.
Dining room
While some dining rooms feature wainscoting from baseboard to ceiling, the more common stopping point is chair rail height. That helps break up the view of your dining room walls and give you more decorating versatility. Do you have a breakfast nook in your kitchen? If it visually blends in with the rest of the kitchen, give it its own defined space by adding wainscoting.
Kitchen
Beadboard wainscoting is one of its most classic applications. Run to waist or shoulder height and topped with a rail molding, it can add texture and interest to any area of the kitchen. In addition to adding it the eating area or bottom of your peninsula or island, consider running it from the top of the cabinets to the ceiling, topping it off with cornice molding like the cabinets.
Bedroom
Talk about defining a space – how about wainscoting as an accent wall in a bedroom, eliminating the need for a headboard. You also can use to frame artwork or, if you have forced air heating, install out around all walls with windows just below the sill.
Bathroom
Bathroom plumbing, vanities, and shower stalls can’t provide all the visual appeal a bathroom is capable of. If you have baseboard heating, consider installing it up to the top of the toilet on exposed wall spaces. Or, conversely, install a molding about 32” from the floor and use wainscoting for the space from there to the ceiling.
Living room or Family room
Living rooms and family rooms are often the largest in your home. That tends to provide a lack of visual interest to your wall space. Rather, it often appears as one large expanse of paint on a surface. Wainscoting can solve much of that problem leaving plenty of room for creativity in how you apply it. Wainscoting is also a good way to cover up wall damage, and that goes for any room.
If you’re interested in adding wainscoting as part of a major or even single-room renovation, talk to the home remodeling pros at PC Plumbing, Heating, AC & Remodeling for expert advice and skilled craftsmanship. We’re ready to serve all your home remodeling needs.