In the early 2000s, minimalism and cool tones such as gray and stark white were popular. However, nowadays, personal touches and a desire for coziness are becoming more prevalent in homes. Consider infusing your space with natural textures and warm wood tones, following one of the top interior design trends known as wood drenching. This technique involves using wood tones, especially on paneled walls or ceilings, to create a space enveloped in wood, making it a major trend for 2025. The result is a comfortable and inviting space where you can relax with a book and a blanket. To avoid a dated look reminiscent of 1970s basements, we have gathered advice from experts on how to successfully incorporate wood drenching into your rooms.
Meet Our Experts:
Debbie Mathews is the founder and principal designer of Debbie Mathews Antiques & Designs, based in Nashville, Tennessee.
Liz Williams is the founder and interior designer at Liz Williams Interiors.
What is Wood Drenching?
“Wood drenching involves enveloping a room in wood by incorporating hardwood floors, wood paneling on walls or ceilings, and using warm, rich wood furnishings in the space,” explains Debbie Mathews. While you don’t have to do everything at once, the goal is to create a cozy space infused with wood, bringing warmth and nature to the forefront of your room’s design. Similar to color drenching, wood drenching is a bold choice that sets the tone for the rest of the interior design.
Why Wood Drenching is Trending in 2025
Wood drenching has gained popularity as a natural progression of design trends. After years of cool neutrals dominating homes, warm and cozy tones have become more popular, with Pantone naming Mocha Mousse as the 2025 Color of the Year. Many people are also focusing on sustainability and incorporating natural elements into their homes through intentional design choices. “People are seeking natural materials to bring the outdoors inside,” says Liz Williams. “Using reclaimed or responsibly-sourced wood is environmentally friendly.”
Should You Try Wood Drenching in Your Home?
According to Williams, wood drenching can complement various design styles, so if you’re interested, you can find a way to incorporate it into your home. However, implementing actual wood walls, floors, or a beamed ceiling can be expensive and involve permanent renovations, making it less suitable for renters or those on a tight budget. For a simpler approach, consider using peel-and-stick wallpaper to create a faux-paneled look or incorporating wooden furniture and details like large wooden bowls to add warmth to your space without the commitment.
Introducing Wood Paneling in Your Home (and Keeping it Modern)
When incorporating wood paneling into your home, it’s important to avoid making your space look outdated. With the right approach, wood can feel contemporary, whether you’re working with existing pieces or installing new materials. “Wood paneling can have
Simply painting paneling can update its look and make it feel lighter. However, when opting for new paneling, there are various options to consider, such as waxing, white washing, or bleaching, to achieve a fresh and light appearance.
The placement of wood panels can significantly impact the overall feel of a space. Experimenting with the width of the panels, installing them vertically or horizontally, or incorporating them into the ceiling can all influence the ambiance of a room. Designer Mathews recommends exploring different placement options, including installing paneling at wainscoting or shoulder-height in various projects.
To add a touch of rustic charm to a space, wood ceilings are a popular choice. Mixing contrasting wood tones can help modernize a room, although this approach may present its own set of challenges. Designer Williams advises caution when mixing different wood types, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a consistent undertone—whether warm or cool. Balancing lighter and darker woods is key to preventing a too uniform or disjointed appearance.
In the realm of interior design, the use of wood paneling offers versatility and the opportunity to transform a space. With a range of techniques available, from simple painting to more intricate treatments like waxing or bleaching, homeowners have ample options to enhance the aesthetic appeal of their interiors. The strategic placement of wood panels, whether on walls or ceilings, can create a sense of depth and texture, elevating the overall design scheme.
When considering an update to a wood-drenched room, incorporating contrasting wood tones can inject a sense of modernity and sophistication. However, the key lies in thoughtful curation and balancing different wood finishes to achieve a cohesive and harmonious look. By maintaining consistency in undertones and carefully juxtaposing light and dark woods, homeowners can achieve a balanced and visually appealing space that exudes warmth and character.
In conclusion, the use of wood paneling in interior design offers a multitude of possibilities for creating unique and inviting spaces. Whether opting for a simple paint refresh or embarking on a more elaborate treatment such as waxing or bleaching, the key is to consider the impact of placement and wood tone selection on the overall ambiance of the room. With a thoughtful approach and attention to detail, homeowners can transform their interiors into stylish and welcoming retreats that reflect their personal taste and style.
