If you’re a fan of interior design, you’ve probably heard of wainscoting. This decorative wall paneling has been around for centuries and has made a comeback in recent years, especially in the popular Hamptons style.
But what is wainscoting called in Australia?
In this article, we’ll explore the different names and variations of this classic design feature and how it can add character and charm to any room in your home.
So, let’s dive in and discover the world of wainscoting!
What Is Wainscoting Called In Australia
In Australia, wainscoting is still commonly referred to as… wainscoting! However, it’s important to note that there are other terms used to describe this type of wall paneling, depending on the specific characteristics.
For example, beadboard is a style of wainscoting where narrow wooden planks are fitted together vertically on the wall, with a little indentation or ridge (the “bead”) between each plank. This is a popular choice for creating texture and interest in a room.
Tongue and groove is another style of wall paneling that’s similar to beadboard, but with a smooth and flat finish. This involves boards being slotted into each other using a tongue and groove design.
Chair rail and dado rail are also terms used to describe specific types of wainscoting. Chair rail is a section of decorative molding fixed to the wall, originally designed to protect the wall from chair backs. Dado rail is horizontal molding around the perimeter of the room.
What Is Wainscoting?
Wainscoting is a decorative wall paneling that typically covers the lower third of the wall. It consists of backing panels, upright timbers, and a top rail. The spacing of the timbers can be customized to create different looks, and there is a wide range of combinations to choose from. Wainscoting can be used to add character to a particular room or as a design feature in a hallway or entrance hall.
Wainscoting potentially dates back as far as the 16th century and is often associated with Victorian architecture and interior design in Britain. Originally used as a practical solution for reinforcing and protecting the lower part of the wall in high traffic areas, it covered up scuffs or damp patches, or improved insulation. However, it has since become a decorative choice in many homes, adding character to flat walls, and has become increasingly popular in Australia over the past 5 years.
Wainscoting is created by using lengths of paneling and timber to create a custom look. Each installation is custom designed around your rooms and spaces. There are 12 different combinations of panels, inlay moulds, and rails to choose from. The backing panels are available in wide or narrow beadboard designs, as well as a flat panel option, while the top rail is interchangeable, and the spacing of the uprights can be customized.
Wainscoting is installed pre-primed and ready to paint in the color of your choice. It can be installed throughout the home but should be avoided in high moisture areas or thoroughly sealed with the correct protectants due to its MDF composition. Wall paneling, dado rail, chair rail, beadboard, wall moulding, tongue and groove are some other terms used to describe wainscoting depending on their specific characteristics.
The History Of Wainscoting
The history of wainscoting can be traced back to the 14th century in Holland. It was initially used as a protective measure to shield the lower half of the wall from damage caused by chairs and tables. With the lack of central heating, wainscoting also provided insulation for homes. The term “wainscoting” is believed to have originated from the German word for “wall-board,” and it was typically made of oak wood imported from Russia, Germany, or Holland.
During the early English Renaissance period, wainscot paneling was installed in mansions to a height of 8 or 10 feet and hung with paintings or armor. This type of paneling was made from oak wood and was a symbol of wealth and status. The French equivalent for wainscot is boiserie, which refers to the profusely decorated paneling carved in low relief during the 17th and 18th centuries in France. Boiserie covers the wall up to the ceiling and may also be painted, gilded, or inlaid.
Today, wainscoting is still used for its decorative and protective function. It can be made from a variety of materials such as wood, tile, and marble. In Australia, wainscoting is a popular choice for adding character and interest to plain walls. It can also be used to highlight original architectural detailing or introduce it in a new build. With different styles of wainscoting available, homeowners can choose the one that best suits their design style and needs.
Different Types Of Wainscoting
When it comes to wainscoting, there are many different types and styles to choose from. Here are some of the most popular options:
1. Beadboard: This style of wainscoting involves narrow wooden planks fitted together vertically on the wall, with a little indentation or ridge (the “bead”) between each plank. Beadboard is a great choice for creating texture and interest in a room.
2. Tongue and groove: Similar to beadboard, tongue and groove wainscoting involves boards being slotted into each other using a tongue and groove design. The result is a smooth and flat finish.
3. Raised panel: Raised panel wainscoting features a central panel that is raised above the surrounding frame. This style is often used in more formal or traditional spaces.
4. Flat panel: Flat panel wainscoting is a more modern take on the raised panel style, with a flat panel instead of a raised one. This style is often used in contemporary or minimalist spaces.
5. Board and batten: Board and batten wainscoting involves alternating wide boards (the “board”) with narrower strips (the “batten”). This creates a vertical pattern on the wall and can be used to add rustic charm to a space.
Wainscoting In Australian Architecture
Wainscoting has become increasingly popular in Australian architecture over the past 5 years, with many homeowners using it to add character and interest to their homes. It’s a versatile design feature that can be used in a variety of ways, from creating a focal point in a hallway or entrance hall, to adding texture and depth to a bedroom or living room.
In Australia, wainscoting is typically created using lengths of paneling and timber to create a custom look. There are 12 different combinations of panels, inlay molds, and rails to choose from, allowing homeowners to create a unique design that suits their individual style.
The backing panels for wainscoting are available in wide or narrow beadboard designs, as well as a flat panel option. The top rail is interchangeable, and the spacing of the uprights can be customized to create different looks.
It’s important to note that wainscoting is typically made from MDF, which means that it’s not suitable for high moisture areas unless it’s thoroughly sealed with the correct protectants. However, it can be installed throughout the home in areas where moisture isn’t an issue.
What Is Wainscoting Called In Australia?
Wainscoting is the most commonly used term in Australia to describe decorative wall paneling that covers the bottom third of the wall. This type of paneling consists of backing panels, upright timbers, and a top rail that can be customized to create different looks. Wainscoting is a popular choice for adding character to a particular room, or as a design feature in a hallway or entrance hall.
It’s worth noting that wainscoting may also be referred to as wall paneling, beadboard, wall molding, tongue and groove, and more, depending on the specific characteristics. Wall paneling involves hanging sheets of grooved panels on the wall, either over the gyprock or in place of it, to provide added decorative interest.
In Australia, beadboard is created using V joint or ship lap lining boards. This involves fitting together a row of narrow wooden planks vertically on the wall with a little indentation or ridge (the “bead”) between each plank. Tongue and groove is another popular style of wall paneling similar to beadboard but with a smooth and flat finish.
How To Incorporate Wainscoting In Your Home
If you’re looking to add wainscoting to your home, there are a few things to consider before getting started. Firstly, think about the style of your home and what type of wainscoting would complement it best. As mentioned above, beadboard and tongue and groove are popular options for adding texture and interest, while chair rail and dado rail can add a touch of elegance.
Next, decide on the height of your wainscoting. Traditionally, wainscoting covers the lower third of the wall, but you can adjust this to suit your preferences and the proportions of your room.
Once you’ve decided on the style and height of your wainscoting, it’s time to get started on the installation process. If you’re confident in your DIY skills, you can tackle this project yourself with the help of online tutorials and step-by-step guides. However, if you’re unsure or don’t have the necessary tools and equipment, it’s best to hire a professional.
When it comes to choosing materials for your wainscoting, there are plenty of options available. Timber is a popular choice for its natural warmth and character, but it can be expensive. MDF (medium-density fibreboard) is a more affordable option that can be painted to match your existing decor.
Finally, consider how you’ll finish off your wainscoting. You can paint it to match your walls or choose a contrasting color for a bold statement. Adding a decorative trim or molding can also enhance the overall look of your wainscoting.
Incorporating wainscoting into your home is a great way to add character and interest to any room. With a little planning and some DIY know-how (or professional help), you can transform your walls with this classic paneling technique.