How to Make a Wall With Wood Paneling Look Modern

Although rustic and natural, a wood-paneled wall can make home interiors appear dated and dreary. Homeowners who move into older homes may wish to modernize paneling by painting it up-to-date colors and decorating it with contemporary wall art. Modern décor is all about simple: neutral colors, clean lines and geometric shapes. Incorporating all these modern design themes into your decorating procedure can transform a boring wood wall panel into a stylish focal point.

Drop cloths
Painter’s tape
Oil-based primer
Roller brush
Paintbrush
Latex paint
Contemporary artwork
Black-and-white photographs
Abstract wall hangings

Instructions

- 1
  Place drop cloths up against the baseboards at the base of the paneled wall to protect the flooring. Mask off the baseboard, molding and window trim with painter’s tape.
- 2
  Apply an even coat of oil-based primer to the paneled wall with a roller brush, and then cut in around the baseboard, molding and window trim with a paintbrush. Let the primed wall dry for 24 hours.
- 3
  Coat the primed paneled wall with a thin coat of latex paint, using the roller brush and paintbrush as previously. Paint the wood-paneled wall a neutral color, such as beige, gray, taupe, ivory or pale lavender. Let the coat of paint dry for 24 hours, then apply a second coat and let that dry.
- 4
  Hang a collection of related objects, such as contemporary artwork, black-and-white photographs or abstract wall hangings, in a cluster on the neutral wall. Keep the designs simple and clean, yet colorful and interesting. Do not overcrowd the wall with clutter.

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