Tambour panels, wood cladding and the wood slat trend, what’s it all about and why is everyone talking about it?
Say hello to the latest interior design trend making waves, timber panels and slatted wood accents. Delivering a subtle texture to walls in homes this trend has finally made its way from commercial to residential properties. Until recently we’ve only seen timber cladding and tambour as an exterior siding, but as of late, it’s creeping into the interior realm in the form accent walls, furniture and décor.
This new look takes on a minimal and Scandinavian approach using raw and unfinished wood. Adding a three-dimensional impression, warmth and texture to any surface, it’s easy to see why this design element is fast growing in popularity. Perfectly complementing the loft and eco interior design trends, we could even see this effect used in maximalism décor too. It adds character and a focal point to accent walls, adds depth to space and introduces a new lighting dynamic. It also adds value in the premium feel it delivers.
Tambour wood, also known as weather boarding, timber siding and wood slats, is most commonly used as siding on modern and contemporary builds. The Thistle Foundations new Health and Wellbeing Centre in Edinburgh is a great example. It’s most easily described as thin strips of wood, that stretch vertically from the ceiling to floor. Equally spaced at around ½ an inch to two inches between each piece, the spaces are normally less than the width of the slats. Although the most common orientation is vertical strips, you can also install the slats horizontally to elongate small spaces.
The easiest way to incorporate this trend into your interior design is to either add an item of furniture that has the slated wood look or by using tambour wood panels to create an accent wall. These can either be left unfinished for a Scandinavian feel or painted for a subtle look.
To use this effect in a loft style designed space keep it chic and team with concrete accents such as plant pots and dishes to balance the natural wood with an industrial texture.
Mimic the straight lines with stripes on patterned soft furnishings such as cushions and rugs in maximalism themed interiors. Consider painting them the same colour as your wall, the looks especially effective in dark colours such as deep green and navy.
If eco-style is more your vibe, keep the walls white or even consider installing that tambour panels on your ceiling for an entirely different approach.
From hall ways to room dividers, dining areas to bedrooms, the creative possibilities with this effect are endless. We’re bias but we like it best on a media wall where the light from the fire can add another dimension to this characterful trend.
Living Fires 